Derby, NY…Harmonia Collaborative Care announces the first session of a FREE five-part Caregiver Series, supported by a grant from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Fund. Harmonia Senior Services department has internally collaborated with our Mental Health Clinic to provide a comprehensive support series for Caregivers.
Often caregivers neglect their own health and well-being because of the demands surrounding the care of their loved ones. Harmonia’s Caregiver Support Series focuses on the skills needed for caregivers to learn the benefits of maintaining their physical and mental health. Attendees will be in a group setting along with Harmonia’s Marissa Biondolillo, LMSW, a licensed clinician and Jennifer Gunia, Director of Senior Services.
The first session will be held Monday, 11/6 at 11am – noon at Harmonia’s Derby location, 6722 Erie Road (Route 5) in Derby. NY 14047. Caregiver’s interested please RSVP to Jennifer Gunia at jgunia@harmonia-care.org or by calling 716-947-5025.
Session #1 – 11/6 – 11am – 12pm. INTRO TO CARE IVING SUPPORT: Challenges caregivers face, the importance of self-care, and what to expect from each session. Our goal is to equip caregivers with the education and training about their mental health needs and the supports available.
Session #2 -12/4 – 11am – 12pm. CAREGIVER SELF-CARE: Self-care benefits of mindfulness, what it is and how it can help reduce stress including simple breathing techniques. Caregiver participants will practice a mindful activity, discuss how it feels and reflect on how to best integrate it into the day.
Session#3 – 1/8 – 11am – 12pm. HOW TO ASK FOR HELP: New Year-New You! How to ask for help, setting boundaries and following through. Discuss relieving the financial burden, sharing of available benefits and entitlements for loved ones, and ways to connect to community resources.
Session #4 – 1/22 – 11am – 12pm. STAY CALM AND CARRY-ON: Introduction to relaxation techniques such as the Calm App and Chi Gong. The Calm App and electronic pets are available for FREE (limited supply).
Session #5 – 2/5 – 11am – 12pm. IT’S A WRAP: Discuss session benefits, get connected to the mental health clinic and Q & A. Caregiver Support Toolbox. What to do if you still have questions after our series ends…we can help you. You are not alone!
Harmonia Collaborative Care is a not-for-profit organization offering behavioral health and senior services to those in need supporting individuals’ independence. Harmonia senior services are designed to help keep people safe in their homes.
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds were established at the Community Foundation to provide support to four areas that were important to Mr. Wilson: caregivers, community assets, design and access, and youth sports. Endowment funds, like these created to honor Mr. Wilson, are designed to grow over time and provide funding for charitable causes according to a client’s wishes.
To learn more about Harmonia’s service offerings visit harmonia-care.org or by calling
716-947-5025.
