Introducing CATHARSIS Nashville!
How we plan to transform mental health care
Among the sources of suffering I encounter most frequently, as a psychotherapist and a human being, are the twin epidemics of mental health "disorders" and loneliness.
There is a widespread need for high-quality, long-term, holistic mental health treatment--especially for HSPs (Highly Sensitive Persons), who are 15-20% of the general population but estimated to be some 50% of therapy clients.
Yet, due to the inequities of the U.S. healthcare system, patients who aren't rich can't afford long-term therapy, and therapists who aren't rich are unable to offer it affordably.
For patients experiencing psychosis, hospitalization can be even more traumatizing than the "illness" itself, and is often ineffective for lasting healing.
Moreover, mental health is not just a matter of individual genetics (though this does play a role)--"disorders" such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis are inextricable from a disordered society, economy, and culture where increasing isolation, digitalization, and division contribute to widespread distress.
Enter CATHARSIS.…
CATHARSIS Nashville will be an endowment-based, nonprofit, holistic healing center and café offering psychotherapy, medication management, bodywork, multifaith chapel, soundproof music and art room, and garden--all on a "pay as you can" basis.
Two of the most powerful healing ingredients, especially for HSPs, are 1) dedicated, peaceful healing space and 2) long-term positive relationships with their therapists. CATHARSIS will provide both.
Our name is an acronym for our mission statement: Clients And Therapist-Healers Activating Relational Synergy In Sanctuary.
First, we will raise money for an endowment to secure long-term solvency and accessibility regardless of clients' ability to pay.
Second, we will buy property and build (or remodel) the center.
Then, we will hire a treatment team of therapists who are HSPs themselves and begin offering services.
Our annual fundraiser will be a musical theatre production in which clients, therapists, and community members can all participate.
If this vision excites and resonates with you, we would love for you to join us in bringing it into being! Please subscribe for weekly posts to learn more, and thank you for joining the CATHARSIS Nashville community!