Faulk Center for Counseling

"The Faulk Center for Counseling is meeting a critical need in our community to provide low cost, high quality, family and Individual counseling. We are proud to support their mission." ~Mark Larkin, CFRE Baptist Health Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation President We are proud to highlight our enduring partnership with the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation, whose commitment to community health has been a guiding force in our mission at the Faulk Center for Counseling. Over the years, the Foundation has consistently supported our efforts to provide affordable, accessible mental health services to individuals and families throughout the area, making a lasting impact on the wellness of our community. Through their generous contributions, the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation has helped us expand our programs, reach more clients, and innovate new approaches to mental health care. This partnership underscores our shared goal of holistic health—recognizing that mental well-being is a crucial component of overall health. Together, we work to remove barriers to mental health care, ensuring that support and resources are available to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. As a cornerstone of our success, the Foundation’s support has been instrumental in our outreach programs, group counseling sessions, and specialized services, which include initiatives for youth, seniors, and families. With the Foundation’s backing, we can continue offering critical services that align with our commitment to making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you to the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation for standing by us as a valued partner. Your dedication to our mission inspires us daily as we continue providing compassionate, quality mental health care to our community.

Meet Our Board [#Q & #A]: Thank you Jason Trock! In this month of gratitude, we are grateful for you dedication, leadership, and vision as we continue to work together to enhance mental health services for our community. #Q: What inspired you to become involved with the Faulk Center for Counseling? #A: The Center's mission is personally meaningful to me, and I believe many do and many more can benefit from its counseling and other services. I also saw the passion my friend and our CEO, Jonathan Price, has for the organization and its cause. #Q: What unique perspective or expertise do you bring to the board? #A: I bring over 20 years of financial and strategic professional experience, and I've been active in philanthropic activities and with non-profit organizations since a relatively young age. #Q: Is there a particular aspect of mental health advocacy or awareness that you're particularly passionate about or focused on? #A: Yes - 60% of the Center's clients are children/teens, giving students support to thrive academically and socially and/or navigate challenges in their lives. #Q: How do you envision the organization's growth or future direction in addressing mental health challenges? #A: Continuing to educate our community about the importance of mental health while expanding our reach to meet local need. #Q: How do you personally prioritize mental health and well-being in your life? #A: Exercise and sleep (normally not in that order of priority), volunteering, church, and periodically meeting with a mental health professional to receive the same benefits the Center provides its clients.

Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton Fund -- #ThankYou! The Faulk Center for Counseling is deeply grateful for the continued generosity of the Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton. Founded in 2012, the Club is comprised of about 80 members who are dedicated to improving the Boca Raton community with health and wellness initiatives. Over the past eight years, their steadfast support has made a significant impact on our ability to provide essential mental health services to those in need. These funds have been instrumental in helping us offer accessible and affordable counseling services to children, adults, and families facing mental health challenges. The partnership with the Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton exemplifies the power of community collaboration. Their commitment to our mission not only strengthens our ability to serve but also inspires hope in the lives of those we support. The Rotary’s dedication to uplifting local organizations like ours underscores their role as champions of mental health and well-being in our community. We are excited to continue this meaningful relationship and look forward to working together to expand our impact. The ongoing support from the Rotary Club enables us to reach more individuals who need help, especially those who might otherwise go without the crucial mental health services they need. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Downtown Rotary Club of Boca Raton and encourage other community leaders to join us in making a difference. Together, we can ensure that everyone has access to the care they need to thrive. Thank you, Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton, for your unwavering support and commitment to mental health in our community. We look forward to our continued partnership in creating a brighter future for all.

We are thrilled to introduce and welcome our new group of students and interns to the Faulk Center for Counseling. These talented individuals bring fresh perspectives, dedication, and a passion for mental health, and we are excited to have them join our team. Please join us in welcoming: Post-Doctoral Intern: -Ellie Seoane Registered Mental Health Intern: -Carlos Lecaros Testing Coordinator: -Emma Gerecke Barry University: -Isabella Rodriguez Florida Atlantic University: -Jessi Broom -Lana Jones -Lauren Fekete -Liz Wasserman -Samantha DiBitetto -Shelby Janov Lynn University: -Alexandria (Ally) Buckner -Julia Toppel Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine: -Sydni Yadin Nova Southeastern University: -Abril Pardo -Alexandra Bourlas -Alexandra Khoudari -Alexis Hartman -Alexis Rosen -Alyssa Payne -Cati Anidjar -Chris Rivera-Jinez -Danielle Ketter -Gabriela Balardin -Hannah Quimby -Isabella Kneider -Katie Larkin -Molly Robbins -Rachel Geller -Rachel Goldberg -Rebecca Comizio -Sarah Michner -Zachary Cohen -Cathryn Krakow -Laura King -Mae Williams -Nesreen Adieh -Rachel Aron -Tina Javidi We look forward to supporting their professional growth as they contribute to our mission of providing compassionate care to the community. Let’s make their time here rewarding and impactful!

"Meet the Team" [Q&A] Board Member Gary Betensky (Attorney at Law) #Q: What inspired you to become involved with the Faulk Center for Counseling? #A: Wanting to support and guide the work of the Center for it to remain able to continue to serve our community to address mental health issues at low cost or no cost; wanting to ensure the continuity of 50 years of successful programming and therapy #Q: What unique perspective or expertise do you bring to the board? #A: Legal, leadership, ability to analyze a myriad of issues culminating in decisive collective decision-making with my fellow Board members #Q: Is there a particular aspect of mental health advocacy or awareness that you're particularly passionate about or focused on? #A: I am especially passionate about youth mental health advocacy, a crucial area that requires continuous attention and resources. #Q: Can you share a memorable experience or achievement during your time as a board member? #A: One of my proudest achievements as a board member was overseeing capital improvements to our facility, ensuring that we provide a welcoming and functional space for our clients and staff. #Q: How do you envision the organization's growth or future direction in addressing mental health challenges? #A: I envision continued growth and expansion under the leadership of Jonathan Price and Dr. Holly, with a focus on securing additional grants, hiring top-tier mental health professionals, and broadening outreach efforts within our community. #Q: How do you personally prioritize mental health and well-being in your life? I maintain my mental health and well-being by cultivating a happy marriage, prioritizing my six kids’ well-being, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a positive outlook. I value engaging with others respectfully, compartmentalizing challenges, and surrounding myself with supportive friends and family, all while minimizing exposure to negativity. We are grateful for Gary’s dedication, leadership, and vision as we continue to work together to enhance mental health services for our community.

#ThankYou #Florida We are thrilled to express our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated legislators who have played an instrumental role in securing essential funding from the state of Florida for the Faulk Center for Counseling. Their unwavering support enables us to continue providing vital mental health services to our community. Special Thanks to Our Current Sponsors: Representative Peggy Gossett-Seidman Senator Tina Scott Polsky, Esq. We also extend our appreciation to our past sponsors: Representative Mike Caruso Representative Kelly Skidmore Your commitment to mental health awareness and support is invaluable. Thanks to your efforts, we can enhance our programs, reach more individuals in need, and make a significant impact in the lives of many. Thank you for standing with us and championing the cause of mental health in the State of Florida and our community. "Organizations like the Faulk Center provide vital mental health services to those in need. Their contributions in our community have helped reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and increased access to mental health services. I am committed to supporting any initiatives that will encourage the growth of healthy emotional well-being.” Kelly Skidmore State Representative - District 92

Meet Our Board [Q&A] Jeffrey Bovarnick, Esq. #Q: How long have you served on the board? #A: I have had the privilege of serving on the Board for over four years. #Q: What inspired you to become involved with the Faulk Center for Counseling? #A: I was invited to join the Board and was happy to volunteer my time and expertise to the Faulk Center, recognizing the importance of its mission #Q: What unique perspective or expertise do you bring to the board? #A: I bring a wealth of expertise in business, real estate and legal affairs to the Board.   #Q: Is there a particular aspect of mental health advocacy or awareness that you are particularly passionate about or focused on? #A: I am particularly passionate about helping disadvantaged families and individuals in accessing essential mental health services. #Q: How do you personally prioritize mental health and well-being in your life? #A: I choose to live a healthy lifestyle which includes eating right, vigorous exercise at least 5-6 days each week, grounding, meditation and maintaining a positive mental attitude.

Meet Our Board Cindy Winter -- #Treasurer #Q: How long have you served on the board? #A: I have served on the board since 2018. #Q: What inspired you to become involved with the Faulk Center for Counseling? #A: It all started when a close friend of mine went through a tough time, and I realized I did not know much about mental health. It hit me that mental health issues touch almost everyone at some point in our lives, directly or indirectly. That realization sparked a deep curiosity and a desire to make a difference. #Q: What unique perspective or expertise do you bring to the board? #A: I'd have to say my background in financial literacy coupled with a genuine care for people. Understanding the financial aspect of running an organization like Faulk Center, along with a heartfelt commitment to its mission, allows me to contribute in a meaningful way.   #Q: Is there a particular aspect of mental health advocacy or awareness that you are particularly passionate about or focused on? #A: When it comes to mental health advocacy, my passion lies particularly in families and children. There is just so much to be aware of in today's world, from the challenges posed by technology and bullying to issues like abuse and substance misuse. Navigating these waters is crucial for the well-being of our youngest generation. #Q: Can you share a memorable experience or achievement during your time as a board member? #A: As a board member, one memorable achievement that stands out is during the challenging times of the pandemic, we never once reduced our services, even when mental health support was more crucial than ever. Another highlight was the installation of our elevator, making our facilities more accessible and inclusive.   #Q: How do you envision the organization's growth or future direction in addressing mental health challenges? #A: In envisioning the organization's growth and future direction, our focus remains on expanding our capacity to serve. The need for mental health support keeps growing, so we're exploring avenues like increasing school services and looking into accepting insurance for payments. It's all about meeting the demand head-on. #Q: How do you personally prioritize mental health and well-being in your life? #A: On a personal level, prioritizing mental health and well-being is essential to me. I find solace and rejuvenation through physical activities like Yoga and regular walks. They are not just exercises for the body, but also for the mind and soul, helping me maintain balance in a busy world.

Faulk Center for Counseling is extremely grateful for the City of Boca Raton's generosity. Because of their support, we are able to further our initiatives and serve our community. Their contribution not only enables us to expand our reach but also signifies a deep commitment to mental health and well-being in our city. We cannot emphasize enough how grateful we are for their partnership and dedication to our cause. With their continued support, we are empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. "The Faulk Center for Counseling has been an invaluable resource for half a century, and the City of Boca Raton has been proud to be a longtime partner with and supporter of the Faulk Center.” --Scott Singer Mayor of Boca Raton

Meet Our Board [#Q & #A] Bill Harper - Trustee #Q: How long have you served on the board? #A: I have served on the board since August 2022. #Q: What inspired you to become involved with the Faulk Center for Counseling? #A: Mental Health is very important to me as I see family members and friends struggling with a myriad of issues and have seen the successes achieved through seeking a professional counselor. Also, in my main vocation, I deal with many individuals in need of mental health assistance while living below the poverty level. I am proud to be associated with an organization that meets the needs of the most vulnerable in our community. #Q: What unique perspective or expertise do you bring to the board? #A: I have over 17 years of non-profit leadership experience and feel equipped to help the Faulk Center navigate some of the specific challenges faced by non-profits.   #Q: Is there a particular aspect of mental health advocacy or awareness that you are particularly passionate about or focused on? #A: I am an advocate for educating individuals on methods of coping with stress and anxiety in their personal or professional activities. Taking time to proactively deal with increased levels of stress or demands for your time can bring peace and stability to your life.    #Q: Can you share a memorable experience or achievement during your time as a board member? #A: I was excited to share a success story with a group of Faulk Center supporters at an event last year. I love being able to see the fruits of our labor in helping individuals move past dark times in their lives and sharing a story of hope with others warms my heart.   #Q: How do you envision the organization's growth or future direction in addressing mental health challenges? #A: I see the center expanding to offer our services to a larger geographical group of our community as we can add to our current staff of stellar professionals making an impact with our current clients. I also see an opportunity to grow prevention programs for those interested in being proactive with their mental health. #Q: How do you personally prioritize mental health and well-being in your life? #A: I try to eat a healthy diet, exercise, and spend a good deal of time at the beach which is my happy place. I also write fiction and blog on my website which is my way of journaling. Spending time with my lovely wife, children, and grandchildren is also an important way of reducing levels of stress and anxiety brought on by my profession.