Program creator and visionary Nielle Alfred, LMHC, has a master’s in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Art Therapy. She is a licensed mental health clinician and a trauma-informed psychoeducational group therapist who utilizes evidence-based approaches for treating the mental health needs of marginalized communities. Nielle was inspired to create Ascend based on her clinical experience and firsthand knowledge of the disparity in mental health services that fit the needs of black, indigenous, and women of color (BIWOC) including multilingual clients and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Our new specialty program is designed to help clients:

• Increase self-awareness and promote self-advocacy
• Build a sense of community and belonging
• Find local resources, support groups, and case management services
• Receive culturally competent and trauma-informed therapy including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and expressive therapies including movement, art, writing and music

Group topics that will be explored include:

• Identity and Empowerment
• Code Switching
• Boundaries in Relationships
• Impact of Mainstream Media on Mental Health
• Exploration of Individual and Collective Values Trauma and Recovery
• Types of Traumatic Stress Response
• Coping with Flashbacks & Dissociation
• Establishing Safety
• Challenging Self-Sabotaging Behaviors Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Managing Catastrophic Thoughts
• Reality Testing
• Challenging Limiting Beliefs
• Anger Management

• Body and Breath Movement
• Creative Writing
• Expressive Arts Therapy
• Art Therapy

• Building Support Systems
• Increasing Self-Advocacy
• Navigating the Healthcare System
• Utilizing Community Resources

• Creating Healthy Habits
• Implementing Self-Care Rituals
• Creating Crisis Plans
• Increasing Self-Compassion

If you are a clinical professional seeking to refer to one of HRI Hospital’s outpatient partial hospitalization programs and intensive outpatient programs for mental health treatment, you can schedule a one-time intake assessment with a clinician by scheduling an appointment online or by contacting our 24/7 Call Center at 617-390-1320 to speak with an Intake Coordinator.

For more information on our new Ascend Program, call us today at 617-731-3200 ext. 179. Our trained professionals are here to help you get started.