On the most recent episode of Community Corner, host Brother Love sat down with Haley Seegroats and Chap Cuthbert from the Mental Health Cooperative (MHC) to discuss the critical work this nonprofit organization is doing in Middle Tennessee. For over 30 years, MHC has been dedicated to providing “whole person” mental health and substance use disorder care, specifically serving the uninsured and those on TennCare.
The conversation highlighted the nature of their services, which include mental health resources, crisis intervention, physical health resources, and specialized substance use programs. A key focus was on their accessibility and commitment to breaking down barriers. “We meet people where they are,” explained Seegroats, the Substance Use Disorder Program Manager. She emphasized that individuals can walk in, call, or even be met by MHC staff in their communities, with dedicated care managers guiding them through the process.
Chap Cuthbert, a Community Response Peer Support specialist, brought a unique perspective to the discussion, sharing his own lived experience with mental health and substance use. He articulated the power of peer support, stating that connecting with someone who has “walked that walk” can be incredibly effective. He also addressed the difficult issue of referring a loved one for help, framing it as “an act of love” and assuring listeners that MHC has trained counselors ready to make the process as smooth as possible.
A sobering point of the discussion was the scale of the need in Nashville. The hosts revealed that the city has the second-highest rate of opioid overdose deaths among major U.S. metropolitan areas, second only to Baltimore. This underscores the vital importance of MHC’s work, which includes partnerships with organizations like Samaritan Recovery and The Next Door, and the recent opening of a 24/7 crisis stabilization unit for children.
For those seeking help or wanting to support their mission, the message was clear that no one is turned away due to a lack of insurance, thanks to safety net programs and grants. The public can help by referring those in need and spreading the word. The Mental Health Cooperative stands ready to provide fast, compassionate, and accessible care to the community. More information can be found at their website, www.mhc-tn.org. To listen to the full episode of Community Corner click the link below.
