A Conversation with Dr. Teresa Haynes

What drives your work in mental health care?

What drives my work in mental health care is the profound understanding that I am part of a transformative process in people’s lives. Supporting individuals during their most vulnerable moments and helping them navigate through crises is not just a responsibility; it’s a privilege. Witnessing the resilience of those seeking help and being able to provide the behavioral health support they need reinforces my commitment to this field.

Effective mental health care can have an immense impact on individuals, their families, and their relationships. When someone receives appropriate care, it can lead to improved coping strategies, a better understanding of their emotions, and a more hopeful outlook on the future. Seeing clients find their voice, rebuild their lives, and reconnect with their loved ones is incredibly rewarding.

Additionally, mental health care fosters an environment where individuals feel safe, understood, and empowered. It is gratifying to contribute to a community where stigma is reduced, and discussions about mental health are normalized. Ultimately, my work is driven by the desire to promote healing, growth, and positive change in the lives of others, which resonates not just in the therapy room but across entire communities.

How do you approach supporting patients at the Precourt Healing Center?

At the Precourt Healing Center, my approach to supporting patients begins with a strong commitment to patient-centered care, which means taking the time to understand each individual’s unique experiences, challenges, and aspirations. By meeting patients where they are—physically and emotionally—I can engage with them in a way that respects their personal journey and empowers them to set and pursue their goals.

Holistic care is central to my philosophy, recognizing that every aspect of a person’s well-being is interconnected. This involves considering not just the patient’s mental health needs but also their physical health, emotional well-being, social circumstances, and spiritual beliefs. Each of these dimensions plays a crucial role in the overall healing process, and addressing them together can facilitate more profound, lasting change.

I strive to create a supportive and compassionate environment where patients feel safe exploring their feelings and concerns. By fostering open communication and collaboration, we can develop a personalized care plan that aligns with their values and life aspirations. Ultimately, my goal is to help patients achieve greater balance, resilience, and hope, guiding them toward healing and self-empowerment.

Can you tell us about your team?

At the Precourt Healing Center, we are fortunate to have a high-quality, dedicated team that embodies a shared commitment to person-centered care. Our staff includes a diverse range of professionals, each bringing their unique expertise and passion for holistic healing. This multidisciplinary approach enhances the care we provide to our patients.

Our team includes highly skilled clinical staff experienced in various therapeutic modalities, ensuring that we can address the specific needs of each individual. In addition to traditional clinical skills, we incorporate creative therapies such as yoga, music, and art therapy into our programs. These modalities allow patients to express themselves in different ways, fostering healing through creativity and movement.

The commitment of our nursing staff and psychiatry staff is particularly noteworthy; their compassionate care and attentiveness play a vital role in creating a supportive environment for our patients. Working alongside such dedicated individuals aligned with our vision of providing comprehensive, person-centered care is a privilege. Together, we strive to create a safe and nurturing space where patients can explore their healing journey and work toward their personal goals. This collaboration and dedication to our patients’ well-being make our team truly exceptional.

What’s your background in this field?

I am a licensed psychologist with a diverse background that encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults. My experience spans a wide range of psychological issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidality, and psychosis. This broad exposure has equipped me with the skills necessary to meet the unique needs of individuals at various stages of life and through different challenges.

Another aspect of my background is my involvement in wilderness therapy, representing an alternative approach to patient care. This modality allows me to integrate the healing power of nature into my therapeutic practice, offering clients unique opportunities for self-discovery, personal growth, and resilience development.

Additionally, I am a certified yoga therapist and teacher. This training complements my psychological practice by emphasizing the mind-body connection, mindfulness, and holistic well-being. Combining traditional psychological methods with alternative approaches like wilderness therapy and yoga has enabled me to provide comprehensive care that addresses the emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of an individual’s healing journey. Overall, my multifaceted background informs my commitment to supporting individuals in a personalized and compassionate manner.