Faulk Center for Counseling

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.

We extend our heartfelt #gratitude to Soroptimist International of Boca Raton/Deerfield Beach for their steadfast support of our Women's Issues Support Group. Their generous contribution plays a crucial role in ensuring the continuity and accessibility of this vital resource for women in need. Beyond their financial assistance, Soroptimist International demonstrates a profound commitment to advancing the well-being of women in our community. Together, we are empowering women to navigate challenges, find strength, and create positive change in their lives. We deeply appreciate Soroptimist International of Boca Raton/Deerfield Beach for their unwavering dedication to our cause and their invaluable impact on the women we serve. "Soroptimist International Boca Raton-Deerfield Beach is honored to be recognized in the Faulk Center for Counseling newsletter. Our organization's mission is to empower women and children by providing them with access to the education and training they need to achieve their goals and economic empowerment. That cannot happen without the support of organizations such as Faulk Center whose mission aligns with ours. Our long time partnership with them has ensured that women and children have the assistance and therapies they need to overcome mental health issues, which allows them to move forward to achieve their goals. We are grateful to Faulk Center for Counseling for being a beacon of hope in people's lives!" -Marybeth Keenan, President Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. Boca Raton-Deerfield Beach

Meet Our Team [Q&A] Samantha Janvier, PsyD Psychologist and Clinical Supervisor #Q: What education do you have?  #A: I obtained my bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Florida. I later earned my master's and doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University. #Q: What certifications do you have/are pursuing? #A: I am currently licensed as a Psychologist in Florida, Missouri, and Pennsylvania. #Q: What areas of specialization are you interested in pursuing?  My training has been in trauma and hospital work. I continue to enjoy learning about these areas of expertise and treating clients who benefit from this knowledge.    #Q: What’s the most profound, insightful, or interesting thing you’ve learned so far? #A: Everyone has their own pace at which they feel comfortable. Finding ways to work within these boundaries creates rewarding and at times surprising outcomes. #Q: Why did you choose to become a mental health professional? #A: Psychology was something that interested me from a young age. I remember watching and enjoying documentaries related to psychology when they came up on the History Channel. I had the opportunity to take college level courses during high school and the psychology coursework always felt intuitive. In college, it made sense to me to major in psychology because of my positive past experiences with the field.    #Q: Why did you choose the Faulk Center for Counseling?  #A: Some of my classmates completed their practicum at the Faulk Center and had positive experiences. I was planning my move back to Florida and the Faulk Center posted a job listing for the exact work I was hoping to find, right as I began searching for a position. I could not have planned such perfect timing. The stars must have been aligned. #Q: What do you think you will love most about being a mental health professional?  #A: I continue to love witnessing the joy and relief my clients feel as they begin to experience the benefits of the effort they put in during treatment. Along similar lines, helping students refine their skills and watching as they become more confident in their skills is a treat.    #Q: What do you do personally to promote your own mental health?  #A: To promote my own mental health I spend time with my loved ones, take walks, attend Cyclebar workouts, and get my nails done.