Step into the heart of connection and expression with the audio from our 4th Annual Words Are Hard Event, recorded live on May 17, 2025. Focused on "Art as a Means of Expression and Self-Care: Sharing Stories of Mental Health", this episode brings you the raw honesty and vibrant spirit of the day. Hear incredible moments from our open mic, where participants bravely shared their lived experiences through creative expression. Immerse yourself in the discussions from our expert Q&A panel, as they explore the profound impact of mental health and the transformative power of art through the lens of 'ID Stolen,' 'Fighting the Darkness,' and 'Spark of Hope'. This is more than just an event; it's a testament to how art helps us connect, heal, and share our stories.

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We welcome Morgan Pickering, a trauma specialist and certified peer counselor, to discuss the critical need for trauma-informed care within the public service system. Morgan shares her unique perspective as a first responder with lived experience, highlighting the importance of crisis intervention, harm reduction, and efforts to decriminalize mental health challenges.

Morgan Pickering, a Gainesville/Hall County native, graduated from Lanier Technical College's EMS program in 2012. Starting her EMS career in Hall County in 2015, she transitioned to the mental health field in 2019 and in 2023, joined NAMI Hall County and its Steering Committee. Now living in Pickens County with her family, Morgan retired from ambulance service in August 2021 to focus on EMS education. She currently serves as a National Level LEO/EMS/Fire Educator and a Trauma Informed Mental Health Specialist. Equipped with seemingly countless certifications, she specializes in trauma studies, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and harm reduction. Morgan established her own counseling office in 2023, collaborating with her husband, a Christian Counselor. Committed to improving crisis response and understanding trauma in mental health crises, she works with various organizations and volunteers with law enforcement and mental health support groups. In late 2024, Morgan founded a Crisis Intervention enhancement course, Trauma Informed Care for Crisis Intervention (TIC4CIT), to equip first responders with in-depth knowledge of trauma /PTSD for de escalation practices and rapport improvements as well as tangible resources to utilize and equip the public that is served. In addition to Peer Counseling and Christian Counseling, Pickering Support Services, LLC offers an array of training options for the general public and first responder agencies, including, but not limited to, Trauma Informed Care for Crisis Intervention (TIC4CIT), Mental Health First Aid for Adults and Fire/EMS, Basic Life Support/CPR/First Aid, Community Resilience Model (CRM), as well as free trainings offered in collaboration with NAMI Georgia including, but not limited to; Crisis Intervention Training - Youth, Ending The Silence, In Our Own Voice, Share Your Story w/ Law Enforcement (SYSLE), NAMI Frontline Wellness Stronger Together Workshop for Fire Couples, and 1 on 1 Peer Support Leadership training.

For questions or to schedule an appointment or training you may contact:

Morgan Pickering

mpickering112213@gmail.com

pickeringcounseling@gmail.com

morganp.namihallga@gmail.com

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We're hanging out with Tanyel Aviles again, and this time, we're diving deep into the heart of Kennesaw! Get ready for an energetic conversation about her work, the city's unique community spirit, and the importance of fostering connections. Join us for a fun and insightful discussion.

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Join us as we talk with poet Deanne Repose Oaks for a chat about turning pain into poetry, finding your voice through art, and why it's totally okay to be your weird self. We're talking adoption, dyslexia, and how creativity can help you navigate life's messy moments. Get ready for some honest talk about mental health, social struggles, and the power of finding your own unique way to express yourself.

If you’d like to connect with Deanna Repose Oaks, including where to find her books, please be sure to check our her Linktree.

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We all communicate differently, but do we truly understand how those differences impact our interactions and even our mental well-being? Join us for a conversation with Tanyel Aviles, Business Recruitment and Retention Manager for the City of Kennesaw, as we explore the fascinating world of diverse communication styles. We'll discuss how these variations can lead to misunderstandings, and how recognizing them can foster healthier connections and improve mental clarity. We'll have a relaxed conversation that is useful for everyone.

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Let's talk about the importance of having "your people." This week, we're joined by Tina Spellman for a candid conversation about how community impacts our mental well-being. We'll discuss everything from finding your tribe to building stronger relationships. Join us for a relatable and inspiring episode!

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Join us on 4:12 Connections as we welcome special guest Jamese Beauford, the Women’s Business Center Director at Greater Wealth Works. In this powerful episode, we delve into the critical topics of mental health, the importance of community, and the rise of suicide rates in the post-COVID world. Jamese shares her insights and expertise, offering valuable perspectives on the challenges we face and the resources available to support individuals and families. We discuss the lingering effects of the pandemic, the impact on mental well-being, and the vital role community plays in fostering resilience and connection. This conversation is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand and address these pressing issues. Tune in for an open and honest dialogue about mental health, hope, and healing.

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Did you know your mental health can significantly impact your physical wellbeing? On 4:12 Connections, we explore this vital connection with chiropractor Dr. Aaron Young. He shares his insights on how mental and physical health are intertwined and offers practical advice for achieving balance. Tune in for a conversation that could change the way you think about health!

For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.

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