AMANDA SMITH
What’s in a name?
If the name in question is Methodist Family Health, the answer is a 125-year legacy. “Our name honors our roots, but we serve all Arkansans regardless of their religious affiliation or beliefs,” explains Methodist Family Health Foundation Executive Director Amanda Smith.
In 1899, Arkansas Methodist Orphanage began with the purpose of providing short-term care and finding homes for children. Changing times brought a change in name and the Methodist Children’s Home eventually shifted its focus from “finding homes” to “making homes.” Evolving once more, Methodist Behavioral Hospital was established in 2001. Now incorporated as Methodist Family Health, the Arkansas institution is currently comprised of the Children’s Home, counseling clinics, hospital and the MFH Foundation.
Amanda notes the unique services and resources available, “We are the only psychiatric and behavioral healthcare organization in Arkansas to offer every level of care a child might need. We also offer a complete continuum of care providing treatment to those who have experienced abandonment, abuse and neglect or struggle with psychiatric, behavioral and emotional issues.” It is the only hospital in the nation certified in the Teaching-Family Model, a trauma-informed and evidence-based approach promoting supportive family-style interactions using a high degree of positive reinforcement. “Not only has the Teaching-Family Model helped clients achieve better outcomes, but national studies show it helps young people with difficult problems or behaviors to improve their quality of life.” In addition to the inpatient behavioral hospital and residential psychiatric treatment programs, MFH also offers therapeutic day school and outpatient counseling.
Support from Methodist Family Health Foundation includes the donation closet with essential clothing, personal care products and school supplies as well as a compassion fund for specific needs. Additional gift cards for birthdays, gas cards to assist with transportation and even holiday presents are other simple but meaningful ways in which the foundation contributes. “While some extras are seemingly small, fulfilling client needs is fundamental to providing a sense of dignity, comfort and safety so they can focus on healing. These are amenities that bolster the clients’ therapeutic journeys and essential items not covered by insurance.”