The new program will provide free mental health counseling and massage therapy services to people ages 18 to 35 living in the Shawnee, Russell, Chickasaw, and Park Hill neighborhoods of California.
The nonprofit Tip It Forward is partnering with Martin and Muir Counseling in this effort. This effort is funded by grants from Humana and the local chamber of commerce, Greater Louisville Inc.
“We are really excited about the support and investment in this type of model,” said Kammaleathahh Livingstone, founder of Tip It Forward.
Residents who sign up for the program will receive three free therapy sessions with Martin and Muir and three free massage therapy sessions incorporating mindfulness techniques provided by Tip It Forward.
Livingston said it integrates comprehensive medical services to support people recovering from trauma.
“The reason this is so important is because a lot of trauma and mental health challenges don't just surface in our hearts and thoughts,” Livingston said. “There may be physical symptoms such as body aches, back pain, headaches, abdominal pain, etc.”
Renesha Martin, co-owner of Martin and Muir Counseling, said the program aims to normalize mental health and reduce barriers to accessing these services.
“We want this to be an opportunity for people to check in on themselves, similar to a primary care visit. [providers],” she said. “It's free. It takes nothing more than understanding that there are other ways to heal and taking the time to look at the big picture. ”
People can learn more about the initiative and attend a kickoff event at Black Coffee in Russell District on Monday from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
At least 80 participants will receive free services through the program, according to information provided by Livingston. The University of Louisville and Spalding University will then collaborate to study the community impact of this initiative.
Registration for the program will officially open in March.
Anyone interested in this program can contact Martin and Muir Counseling by calling (502) 383-2969 or emailing intake@martinandmuir.com.
