NorCal SCI Launching Mental Health Services Grants - Apply now!

Everyone with a SCI knows the many challenges of life post-injury and while our team has done a lot to support Physical Therapy, physical exercise and equipment needs, we recognize the importance of mental health as part of the larger recovery process. NorCal SCI is launching a new program to provide free Psychotherapy services from a qualified therapist to our community. Spots are limited but if approved, you will receive 8-10 one-hour sessions on video, so no travel is required. If you’re interested, please apply for the Road to Recovery (R2R) Grant here and specify the Mental Health Services category. 

As an organization, we are acutely aware of how important mental health is in living with SCI. None more so than NorCal SCI Board Member Arash Bayatmakou, who writes:

”Following my C5-6 injury, I put all of my time and energy into physical rehab, recovery, and exercise. Four years later, I realized that underemphasizing my mental health had led to some major challenges in my life and also impacted my physical abilities as well. I appreciated the connection of the body and mind: how can we expect to physically improve if we're not in a good mental space or receiving the necessary mental health support? I found a psychotherapist I liked and started regular sessions. It didn't take long to realize the amount of trauma, anguish, and stress I'd been carrying with me since my injury and to start seeing better results. I encourage everyone to be aware of their mental health and if necessary, explore finding mental health help in whichever way possible.” 

Arash Bayatmakou