Hannah Yterdal, Johnson & Johnson Community Medical Liaison brought our briefing @TheIntersection on a Community Approach to Mental Health and Transitions of Care.
Quick recap
The meeting focused on a presentation by Hannah Younerdahl, a Community Medical Liaison with Johnson & Johnson Neuroscience, who discussed transitions of care in mental health services. Hannah explained her role in providing free mental health education across Texas and previewed her upcoming presentation at the May 21st Action Lab symposium on mental health transitions. She highlighted the challenges in fragmented mental health systems and emphasized the importance of continuous engagement, collaboration among providers, and patient-centered approaches. The discussion included questions about San Antonio’s approach to mental health services compared to other metropolitan areas, the role of faith communities in mental health support, and specific initiatives like housing and community treatment programs in Cattlemen Square.
Summary
Sacred Action Lab Mental Health Series
The meeting focused on the “At the Intersection” series, which is now part of the Sacred Action Lab series running an 8-week mental health cycle. Bill announced that all past recordings are available on the new blog and repository, with current sessions being posted by the end of each day. The upcoming Action Lab symposium on May 21st at Covenant Presbyterian will feature Hannah Younerdahl from Johnson & Johnson presenting on mental health services, along with panels on co-occurring situations and creating welcoming spaces for people with mental health challenges. Bill also mentioned the Bexar County Behavioral Health Conference on May 29th at the Norris Center as another upcoming opportunity.
Mental Health Care Transitions Discussion
Hannah introduced herself as a Community Medical Liaison with Johnson & Johnson Neuroscience, a licensed professional counselor focused on mental health education. She previewed her upcoming presentation at the Action Lab on May 21st, which will focus on transitions of care in mental health. Hannah explained that successful transitions require continuous engagement, collaboration among providers, and patient input, highlighting the fragmented nature of current systems and the need for better coordination between different care settings. She emphasized the importance of building bridges between various service providers and breaking down silos to improve outcomes for people with serious mental illnesses.
Mental Health Education in Texas
Hannah discussed her work in mental health education across Texas, including regular visits to San Antonio where she collaborates with organizations like Center for Healthcare Services and San Antonio Clubhouse. She explained her focus on anti-stigma education, supporting caregivers, and training mental health professionals, particularly around serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. When asked about resource management, Hannah noted that rural communities often demonstrate creative approaches to limited resources, though no single area stands out as particularly effective. The discussion concluded with Hannah confirming her availability for presentations and collaborations with local organizations in San Antonio.
Homelessness Response Action Plan Discussion
TRoth discussed a homelessness response action plan and assertive community treatment plan being developed in Cattlemen Square with the San Antonio Housing Trust and Athen Home consulting group. Hannah shared her experience with housing initiatives and ACT models, emphasizing the importance of stable housing for better health outcomes and treatment adherence. She noted challenges with funding sustainability and suggested building collaborative relationships between services in the area, including the nearby Center for Community Health.