This month we are spotlighting one of our Mental Health Partners on our Multi-Disciplinary Team, Melissa Romain with OhioGuidestone. Melissa has been instrumental in bringing the Medina Youth Resiliency and Counseling Center to Medina.
The one-of-a-kind center for families is intended to build stronger emotional connections through innovative therapeutic spaces for children and adults. The center has active therapy rooms – play room, sand room, art room, and dance spaces; and rooms for quiet reflection and traditional talk therapy. The center is a collaboration between OhioGuidestone and the ADAMH Board.
We asked Melissa to share a little more about herself so that we could all get to know her a little better.
Roles and Responsibilities
How did you learn about The Children’s Center of Medina County? How did you first become involved with The Center?
In 2015, I was in a program at the Cleveland Leadership Center called Cleveland Bridge Builders. A colleague from that program introduced me to the then Executive Director, Rhonda Wurgler, who invited me for a tour and to join the Youth Advisory Committee in Medina County. I became involved in the committee and eventually in the Medina Community and my agency, OhioGuidestone began providing behavioral health services in the county. Rhonda asked us to join the Multi-Disciplinary Team shortly after and we’ve been partnering with the Child Advocacy Center ever since.
What is your current role? What do you do in that role?
I am the Regional Director at OhioGuidestone in Medina County and I manage our operations here. We provide mental health and substance use treatment and additional services for youth and adults.
What are you most proud of in your work with The Children’s Center?
I am proud that my staff members are able to engage with families during some of the most difficult times and help support them when they need it. It is so nice to be able to be there as a resource and provide any level of help that a family could need, from listening and reassurance to education and linkage to community resources, our staff are truly able to meet the family where they are in the moment.
Personal Insights and Reflection
What is the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
The best advice I’ve ever received was from my aunt who told me that success is the best revenge 😊.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to be a child therapist for as long as I can remember.
What is your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
I unwind with activity. You can always find me at the gym, walking by the lake, kickboxing or hiking in the woods.
What season is your favorite?
Fall is my favorite season. I love wearing warm sweaters and hiking when the leaves are changing colors.
Community Engagement and Support
What does the community need to know about The Children’s Center?
I think the community needs to know just how unique The Children’s Center is. Not all counties have a place where children and families can come to feel safe in telling their stories and have access to the care they need, in the times they need it most. Medina is so lucky to have The Children’s Center as a resource for the community.
