Skip to main content
IN A CRISIS?
GET HELP NOW

Therapist Earns Doctorate to Improve Veteran Care

Written by Savannah Woodall on . Posted in Mental health, News, Uncategorized, Veterans.

Jessica Sellers, DSW, Strives to Improve Mental Health Care for Veterans

At WellStone, we are proud to celebrate our frontline workers when they set—and achieve—big goals. 

That’s what we’re excited to recognize Jessica Sellers, one of two WellStone therapists specializing in veteran care. She graduated from the University of Kentucky, earning her Doctor of Social Work (DSW) with a concentration in Military Behavioral Health. Sellers, who is based in Cullman, already holds a BS in psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a Master of Social Work from the University of Alabama. 

“My degree aligns closely with both my long-term career goals and WellStone’s mission of serving communities with compassion and evidence-based care,” said Sellers.  “Throughout my doctoral studies, I focused on increasing provider confidence and competence when working with veterans through the VA Community Care Network. This led to my development of the VALOR Model of Veteran Education Delivery, an educational framework designed to better prepare healthcare and behavioral health providers to serve veteran populations.”

A veteran herself, Sellers adds that the program strengthened her ability to integrate clinical practice, advocacy, research, education, and program development in ways that directly support WellStone’s commitment to accessible, high-quality mental health care.  

 

“The mental health of veterans is important to me because of both my personal experiences and my deep respect for those who have served our country. My military career ended earlier than expected due to injury, so this is how I continue serving.”   

Sellers’ goal is to continue advancing veteran behavioral health initiatives through trauma-informed, culturally responsive care while contributing to provider education, leadership development, and systems improvement across the behavioral health field.  

Thank you, Dr. Sellers, for your service!

The Sara Brotherton Reward Room at WES

Written by Savannah Woodall on . Posted in Fundraising, Mental health, News, Uncategorized, Veterans.

For Sara Brotherton, every child deserved encouragement, love, and the chance to learn, grow, and succeed. A Huntsville native, Huntsville High graduate, and lifelong educator, Sara dedicated her career to helping children reach their potential and celebrate their achievements along the way.

Sadly, Sara’s mission was cut short. She passed away on April 19, 2023, at the age of 43 following a courageous battle with cervical cancer. Today, Sara’s loved ones remember her most for the way she lived. 

After she passed, her mother, Kay Brotherton, made donations to organizations and causes that she believed were close to her daughter’s heart. Children. And animals.

When Kay learned WellStone was building Huntsville’s only extended psychiatric care facility for youth in Madison County, she knew Sara would have cared deeply about this project. 

Kay made a generous gift to the adolescent addition at WellStone Emergency Services (WES), and we named the Reward Room in Sara’s memory.

The Sara Brotherton Reward Room was created to do more than provide a place to play. It is a space where children can celebrate milestones, relax, and be recognized for the progress they make during treatment.

The room features an interactive game projected onto the floor, toys, and comfortable seating designed to help young clients feel encouraged and supported.

“Sara would be pleased to have the Reward Room given in her memory,” Kay said. “She believed that everyone needs a chance to achieve goals. And then they should be rewarded in a positive way.”

Sara carried this philosophy throughout her 17-year career as a special education teacher in Gwinnett County, Georgia.

Each school year, she emphasized goal setting with her students and kept a treasure chest in her classroom to encourage progress and celebrate achievements.

“Once a goal was achieved,” Kay explained, “the student could choose something from the treasure box. These were rewards that were not freely handed out but earned.”

From her years at Huntsville High School and Auburn University to her classroom and community, Sara made a lasting difference in the lives of countless children and families.

As a mother of six and an educator herself, Kay cares deeply about children and their well-being.

“I truly believe mental health is the #1 issue facing the world today,” she said.

Today, every child who earns time in the Reward Room experiences a small piece of Sara’s legacy.

Her encouragement, compassion, and belief in celebrating progress lives on through the children and families served at WES. As if Sara’s spirit is there, cheering them on and reminding them that healing, growth, and hope deserve to be celebrated.

WellStone Opens Therapy Clinic in Madison

Written by Savannah Woodall on . Posted in Mental health, News, Uncategorized.

As North Alabama experiences rapid expansion, access to mental health care is more important than ever. To better serve the growing population, WellStone has officially opened a new outpatient therapy clinic in the city of Madison.

Located at 9238 Madison Boulevard, the new clinic serves adults ages 19 and older and offers a range of services designed to support mental health and substance use recovery. These include individual therapy, group therapy, and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) for substance use disorders.

This new location brings care closer to home for many individuals and families in the Madison area, making it easier to access the support they need.

“Madison consistently ranks among the fastest growing cities in the state,” said Jeremy Blair, CEO of WellStone. “We’re excited to offer the same quality mental health services our Madison clients have come to expect from WellStone, but much closer to home.”

Expanding Access in a Growing Community

The opening of the Madison clinic reflects WellStone’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to care across North Alabama. As highlighted in coverage by WAAY-TV, the new location is part of a broader effort to meet increasing demand for mental health and substance use services in one of the region’s fastest-growing areas.

A Connected Continuum of Care

While the Madison clinic focuses on outpatient therapy, clients can be referred to additional WellStone services when needed, including:

  • Psychiatric evaluation and services (Huntsville)
  • Medication management (Huntsville)
  • Primary care services (Huntsville)
  • Detox services at River Crossing Withdrawal Management
  • Residential substance use treatment at River Valley Recovery Center

This integrated approach ensures individuals receive the right level of care at the right time.

Getting Started

Existing WellStone clients can transfer to the Madison location by speaking with their therapist or a customer service representative.

New clients are also welcome. To get started, contact the Access to Care team at 256-705-6444 or visit WellStone.com to learn more.

Stride for Sophia 5k Raises Mental Health Awareness

Written by Savannah Woodall on . Posted in Fundraising, Mental health, News, News & Events, pediatric mental health, Stories of Hope, suicide prevention.

A sea of pink poured into Arab City Park Saturday for the first Stride4Sophia 5K.  

The Aldridge family coordinated the race in honor of 15-year-old Sophia, who died following a battle with mental illness. Her favorite color—pink—was everywhere: on T-shirts, bracelets, and balloons. The event itself featured her favorite sport.  

Sophia had been a proud member of the Arab Knights cross country and track teams. 

“We had this race because Sophia loved running,” said Emilee Aldridge, Sophia’s mom. “It was her passion, and we wanted to celebrate and honor her, along with her running career. She got her sister to join her, and it was such a great time for our family to go to all those meets.” 

Besides her twin sister, Maddie, Sophia is survived by two little brothers, her mom, dad, grandparents, and too many other loved ones to mention.  

“We miss her so much,” added Emilee. “But I know she’s here with us today.”  

In all, more than 150 runners and walkers turned out, raising awareness—and more than $8,000—in honor of Sophia. 

Proceeds support the WellStone Emergency Services (WES) Pediatric Unit, the state’s only 24/7 crisis care center for youth. Emilee said she did not know the program existed when she was desperately trying to find help for her daughter.  

“We are so sorry for the Aldridge family’s heartbreaking loss,” said Jeremy Blair, WellStone CEO. “We are also thankful. Emilee’s courage and commitment to help other families in the wake of her own tragedy is truly inspiring.” 

WellStone opened the pediatric unit in fall 2024 with just four beds. Today, it has 16 beds and serves children ages 8 – 18.

“We need to support each other and let other people know what resources are here in our own communities,” said Emilee, who had taken her daughter to Decatur and Birmingham for care. “And to let families know they’re not alone.”  

They certainly aren’t alone. Last year, Alabama Mental Health Commissioner Kim Boswell announced that suicide had become the leading cause of death in Alabama for individuals aged 10 – 24. 

“I also wanted to get our community together,” Emilee said before the race. “I’m so grateful you are all here to support mental health. I hope we can leave here and continue talking about it. To each other. To our kids. Let them know it’s okay to have the feelings you have.” 

For more information on the Stride for Sophia, you can email stride4sophia@gmail.com. 

If you’d like to support the WES Pediatric Unit with a tax-deductible donation, you may do so here.  Please specify if the gift is in honor or in memory of a loved one. You may also recognize Sophia Aldridge in the tribute field.  

For more information on supporting mental health and/or addiction recovery support through WellStone, please contact karen.petersen@wellstone.com. For questions about our programs and services, visit WellStone.com or reach out to info@wellstone.com.  

EMDR Therapy Coming Soon to WellStone

Written by Savannah Woodall on . Posted in Fundraising, Mental health, News, Stories of Hope.

Thanks to a generous Diamond Impact grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama’s Caring Foundation, six WellStone team members have begun the journey to becoming certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. 

This funding helps cover the extensive training required for this specialized certification, allowing WellStone to bring a vital new module to our community-based services. 

Studies show that EMDR, an evidence-based modality, is extremely effective, particularly for those struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR helps the brain “reprocess” traumatic memories, so they no longer have a painful emotional connection.

“The training process was incredible,” said Brianna Faulkner, a youth outpatient therapist, who participated in the initial five-day training earlier this month. “It was intense and we had the opportunity to perform EMDR. It was amazing to see how EMDR helps people process their trauma in such an effective way.” 

This grant allows WellStone to build on our existing trauma work, such as the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) program for veterans and first responders.  

“We’ve already found great success in treating PTSD with veterans,” said Jeremy Blair, CEO. “This gives us another way of helping our clients overcome trauma that has been compromising their quality of life.” 

According to the National Center for PTSD, 6% of Americans will suffer from PTSD each year.   

Triggering events include—but are not limited to—military conflict, physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, car crashes, and community violence.  It affects adults and kids alike.  

“Trauma goes beyond singular, large-scale events,” Faulkner added. “Trauma can vary significantly based on an individual’s perception, developmental stage, and internal resources.” 

Brandon Heath, WellStone’s Cullman County Juvenile Court Liaison Therapist, is also looking forward to offering EMDR to clients.  

“The teenage clients I see are often in need of positive guidance after poor decision-making, but some have also experienced tough traumatic situations,” Heath said. “EMDR can be a useful new skill to assist clients through trauma healing processes.” 

 EMDR will be offered at select WellStone locations. Stay tuned for updates as our therapists move through the certification process.  

Four Quiet Nooks, Countless Moments of Healing

Written by Human Resources on . Posted in Fundraising, Mental health, News, pediatric mental health, Uncategorized.

The WellStone Emergency Services Pediatric Unit is making an extraordinary difference for kids struggling with mental health and substance use crises.

That’s thanks in large part to hundreds of community members who stepped up, generously contributing to WellStone’s Be the Rock capital campaign. Among them, four donors who secured one of the sweetest naming opportunities available within the unit.

“We were called to support the pediatric center because of our experience with our granddaughter’s mental health journey,” said JJ Jayne.

We recently installed signs recognizing the following donors, who supported the center’s quiet nooks:

  • The Jayne Family

  • The Optimist Club of South Huntsville

  • Rachel Brown in memory of Richard Hunter Brown

  • Christy Nichelson in memory of Miriam J. Burnett

When Martin Sisson’s team designed the WES addition, they incorporated four built-in nooks, a pair in each of the two hallways. Kids love the nooks for reading, writing, or just “chilling.”

Dr. Edgar Finn, the Pediatric Unit’s Medical Director, has sessions with patients in these spaces, as well.

These donors made their Be the Rock gifts more than a year ago, long before the center was completed. Today they see the dividends of their charitable investments in the children served by this pediatric unit—the first of its kind in the state and the first extended psychiatric care center for youth in Madison County.

“I was really impressed with the unique design layout, open, airy, with these cool little nooks for young patients to hang out and chill,”
— Dennis Longino, longtime member of the Optimist Club of South Huntsville.
“We are proud that our Optimist Club was able to help make this much needed facility a reality.”

Christy Nichelson also enjoyed visiting the Pediatric Unit, and seeing the connection, compassion, and community her gift helped create for kids in crisis.

“It was simple, really,” said Nichelson. “I just wanted to help provide a safe place for children to heal. They deserve this.”

That safe place for children is serving approximately 50 youth per month, with an average stay of three – four days. They come in with suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, and leave with hope, strength, and a treatment plan to guide them on recovery journeys.

You can still be part of this transformational project. To invest in the pediatric unit through WellStone’s Be the Rock capital campaign, [click here]. Naming options are still available.

Introducing The Lantern Circle: Shining a Light on Monthly Giving

Written by Human Resources on . Posted in Fundraising, Mental health, News, pediatric mental health, Uncategorized.

Introducing The Lantern Circle: Shining a Light on Monthly Giving

WellStone is proud to announce its newest giving program: The Lantern Circle—a special group of donors who support our mission through recurring monthly gifts.

By bringing their lanterns together, these generous individuals shine a brighter light on mental wellness in our community and help ensure a stronger, more sustainable future for behavioral healthcare in North Alabama.

“We wanted to make sure that WellStone knew they could count on our donation each month,” said Ann Marie Lang, who, along with her husband Gene, began monthly giving three years ago. “This can make it easier for budgeting purposes of their various programs.“

Pictured: Anne Marie & Gene Lang
Pictured: Anne Marie & Gene Lang

Monthly giving is gaining momentum across the country. Between 2018 and 2022, recurring donations increased by 144% nationwide. While WellStone’s growth hasn’t been quite as fast, it has been steady.

That’s a promising trend. Consistent charitable income provides a strong foundation for planning and expanding services. And according to Giving USA, many monthly donors eventually become major contributors over time.

This type of giving is also a win for donors. It’s flexible, convenient, and often more manageable than a single large gift. One young professional puts it simply:

“I donate $7.36 each month—the cost of my favorite coffee at Gold Sprint.”

It’s a reminder that even modest recurring gifts can go a long way when combined with the collective power of The Lantern Circle. No matter the amount, these donors are lighting the way to hope and healing—month after month.

“Gene and I support WellStone because mental health hasn’t always been talked about,” Ann Marie shared. “It was often kept a secret in families. We’re glad WellStone is bringing education and awareness to the forefront and helping people who are struggling.”

Karen Petersen, WellStone’s Director of Development, is especially excited about the new program and eager to spotlight its supporters.

“We want all of our donors to know how grateful we are,” Petersen said. “Monthly donors have a special kind of dedication. They give month after month, often year after year. That’s a big deal.”

In the coming months, WellStone plans to offer more engagement opportunities for Lantern Circle members.

“We are so glad to be part of this program,” said Ann Marie. “Gene and I are grateful that we can help support mental health in North Alabama. These donations help us feel even more connected to our community.”

The very first monthly donors—Jon and Sonja Rossow—signed up in the fall of 2021, when recurring giving first became available. They were soon followed by Jalynn Whitfield, a local college student.

Since then, the circle has grown, with each member making a lasting difference in the lives of the thousands of children, adults, and seniors WellStone serves each year.

If you’d like to join Ann Marie, Gene, and others in The Lantern Circle, please visit one of our donation pages and select the recurring gift option.

Please note: A minimum monthly donation of $5.30 is required by our donor software platform.

WES Director on Mental Health in Huntsville/Madison County

Written by Human Resources on . Posted in Mental health, News, pediatric mental health, suicide prevention.

Addressing Mental Health Challenges in Our Community

Paula Steele, Director of WellStone Emergency Services, presented to the North Alabama Mental Health Coalition, sharing critical insights into the growing mental health challenges in our community, particularly among youth. The room was filled with key community stakeholders, including HEMSI medical transport, local law enforcement, members of the VA, First Stop, social workers, therapists, and mental health advocates, all dedicated to addressing these pressing issues.

Paula highlighted the alarming rise in depression and suicidal ideation among children, driven by social media and bullying. Children now face bullying not just at school but 24/7 due to constant online exposure, taking a severe toll on their mental health.

Mental Health in Numbers

In 2024, WellStone Emergency Services served 1,615 adults. Of those:

  • 51% experienced suicidal thoughts
  • 80% reported depression or anxiety

Among youth, 74 children were admitted

  • 80% experienced suicidal ideations
  • 92% struggled with depression

These statistics paint a sobering picture of the mental health crisis impacting both adults and children in our community. They also emphasize the critical importance of addressing mental health issues early and providing ongoing care and support.

Working Together for Support

WellStone partners with the North Alabama Mental Health Coalition and other organizations to address these challenges by offering numerous resources.

Our goal is to provide support for the entire community—children and parents, as well as adults and their loved ones. We strive to be there for everyone, including those without loved ones or shelter, ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggle.

By collaborating with others, we aim to address root causes like the negative effects of social media and expand access to care and resources. Together, we can raise awareness, foster understanding, and create a more supportive environment for all.

Extending comfort in Crisis

Written by Human Resources on . Posted in Mental health, News, pediatric mental health, Uncategorized.

Softening the Edges: Sharon Finn’s Gifts of Comfort

At WellStone Emergency Services, we often witness small acts of kindness that make a big difference. One such act comes from Sharon Finn — a talented pianist, dedicated St. Mary’s volunteer, and creative entrepreneur who crafts beautiful satin and fleece pillowcases through her small business.

Over the past year, Sharon has donated dozens of her handcrafted pillows to the WellStone Pediatric Unit, where children and teens aged 12-18 receive emergency mental health care. The soft texture and thoughtful designs bring comfort during difficult times. Some children have asked to take a pillow home, finding solace in these small, meaningful gifts.

“It’s another way to connect with the children and soften the edges,” she said.

Her kindness reflects WellStone’s mission: helping children feel safe, supported, and never alone. Thanks to Sharon and others like her, our community continues to show up with warmth and compassion, helping these young hearts move toward brighter, more hopeful futures.

Sharon’s story reminds us that giving back doesn’t have to be grand to be impactful. A simple, soft gesture can heal in powerful ways.

Jones Family Supports Mental Health

Written by Human Resources on . Posted in Fundraising, Mental health, News, pediatric mental health.

 

Tracy Shields Jones: Committed to Community and Compassionate Care

Tracy Shields Jones, president of Century Automotive Group, has led the family business for decades. As a third-generation dealer, Tracy takes pride in the luxury cars her family sells. But even more than that, she takes great pride in the community her family supports.

“It is just the right thing to do,” said Tracy. “I was raised to believe that if you take care of your community, then it will take care of you! Huntsville is such a great place to do business and raise a family, and we want to make an impact for generations to come.”

Supporting Mental Health Through the Be the Rock Campaign

That’s why Tracy and her husband, George, personally contributed to WellStone’s Be the Rock capital campaign. This campaign raises critical funds for WellStone Emergency Services (WES) — first for adults, and now for youth.

The Jones family was among the first to pledge a major gift when WellStone formally launched the campaign in 2022. Today, a Quiet Room in the temporary WES unit bears the family’s name.

With one in five Americans experiencing mental illness, Tracy recognized the urgent need for the new facility.

“There are so many people that fall through the cracks when it comes to mental illness and addiction,” Tracy reflected. “There are loved ones who don’t need to be admitted to the ER or put in the back of a police car, but there was no other alternative until WellStone Emergency Services.”

Transformative Care for Adults and Youth

The original WES facility, which opened on WellStone’s main Huntsville campus in October 2022, now serves over 150 men and women every month. This fall, the new pediatric addition — Madison County’s first extended psychiatric care center for kids — opened to address the growing need for youth mental health services.

The Jones family’s generous donation is one of hundreds contributing to nearly $2 million raised through the Be the Rock campaign, but Tracy believes the campaign is about more than funds. It’s about growing awareness, removing barriers to access, and providing compassionate care.

“Being a part of WellStone has opened my eyes to the needs in our community,” Tracy said. “The fact that there was a need for the new WellStone Emergency Services Pediatric Unit just breaks my heart. We have got to do better by our youth and those suffering with mental illness. We have got to serve our community through compassionate care for kids and adults in crisis. They need us.”

A Legacy of Giving Back

Three of Tracy and George’s four children are now working at Century Automotive Group and will eventually take over the family business. Just like Tracy and George — and Tracy’s parents, John and Patsy Shields — the next generation is continuing the family’s legacy of philanthropy.

After all, as the Jones family agrees: “It’s the right thing to do!”

Thank you, Tracy and the entire Jones family, for your unwavering support of WellStone and our community!