Posts tagged behavioralhealth
Understanding Counseling and Mental Health: Insights from Aultman’s Stacey Montgomery

On this week’s episode of Health Matters with the Medicine Center Pharmacy, hosts Paul White and Brad White sat down with Stacey Montgomery, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with Aultman Medical Group Behavioral Health and Counseling Center, to explore an important topic that touches many lives — mental health and counseling.

The Importance of Mental Health

Watch the archived Livestream!

Mental health is an essential part of overall wellness. Stacey explained that common conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress can affect anyone — regardless of age or background. Life stressors, trauma, and ongoing uncertainty can influence how we think, feel, and behave.

“Our mental health affects every part of our lives — relationships, work, sleep, and physical well-being,” Stacey noted.

When to Seek Counseling

Everyone experiences stress or sadness, but when those feelings persist or interfere with daily functioning, counseling can make a significant difference.

Stacey emphasized that therapy isn’t only for times of crisis — it can also help people manage transitions, grief, or relationship challenges.


“If you feel stuck or unable to ‘fix’ things on your own, that’s often a sign to reach out for help.”


What to Expect in Counseling

During a counseling session, individuals can expect a safe, non-judgmental space to talk through their struggles. The first session typically focuses on understanding your history, goals, and what you hope to achieve.

Types of counseling include:

Individual counseling for one-on-one support

  • Group counseling to connect with others facing similar experiences

  • Faith-based counseling for those who want spirituality integrated into their care


Overcoming Stigma

Paul and Brad discussed how stigma often keeps people from seeking help. Many fear being judged or viewed as weak. Stacey encouraged listeners to see counseling as a strength, not a weakness.


“Taking care of your mental health shows courage — it’s no different than seeing your doctor for physical health.”


Friends and family can play a key role by offering support, expressing care, and normalizing the idea that it’s okay to not be okay.

Finding the Right Counselor

Finding the right fit is key. Different counselors have varied specializations — from trauma and grief to anxiety or relationship counseling. A good counselor will create an environment of trust and collaboration.


Moving Forward

Counseling can help individuals gain clarity, perspective, and coping tools to handle life’s challenges more effectively.

The goal isn’t to “fix” someone — it’s to empower them to move forward and live more fully.

Local Mental Health Resources

Aultman Medical Group Behavioral Health and Counseling Center offers outpatient mental health services with licensed professionals dedicated to compassionate care.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact your nearest Aultman location or visit aultman.org.

Thanks for listening today! We’d like to remind our listeners, if you suspect you have a medical issue, please contact your healthcare provider. Thanks to our sponsor Aultman Health System. As always, we thank our listeners for joining us on Health Matters with the Medicine Center Pharmacy. Have a healthy week and we’ll see you again next Friday right here on News Talk 1480 WHBC.