KVC Niles

At KVC, we believe that Kindness Changes Lives and we love to recognize special employees that go above and beyond with incredible customer service. Today we recognize EJ, one of our kind and helpful receptionists! Here's what our Niles Prep Administrator, Lindsey, had to say about him: EJ is great at seeing a problem and coming up with a solution. He’s always such a joy to be around, and has the most inviting smile and positive interactions with all. Join EJ and the rest of our caring, compassionate team! Head to kvc.org/careers to explore our available opportunities.

Happy National Pet Day everyone! Our furry friends don’t have quite as much training as our talented KVC therapists, but dogs, cats and other pets are still proven to reduce stress, anxiety, encourage playfulness, and even improve your cardiovascular health. Do you have a beloved "therapet" who has been by your side during during the past year? Did you recently adopt a furry friend? Post a pic and show us in the comments below!

Congratulations to Lindsey Stephenson, who will become president of KVC Missouri on June 1. Learn more about Lindsey's incredible contributions during her 15 years here at KVC and how we are expanding our continuum of care in Missouri.

Child abuse is an epidemic that affects all races, socioeconomic classes and communities. We ALL play a role in ensuring children are safe and protected. Learn the facts about this national problem and become part of the solution to end child abuse.

With our "Kindness Changes Lives" initiative, we’re highlighting staff who put KVC's values into action and change the lives of the children and families we serve. Today we'd like to give a shout out to Ashley, one of our amazing Behavioral Health Technicians! She provides direct care to the youth receiving treatment at KVC Niles and is a great role model. Here’s what Lindsey, Niles Prep Administrator, had to say about Ashley: Ashley embodies the golden rules. She treats each child and adult with dignity and respect. She is always calm when speaking and has been such a great help to our students doing virtual learning. Join Ashley and the rest of our caring, compassionate team! Head to kvc.org/careers to explore our available opportunities.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect, and to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families. Find out how our team is helping children and teens who have experienced abuse and neglect by visiting our website at kvcniles.org/trauma.

Today and all month long, we’ve been celebrating Pierre, our March Employee of the Month! Pierre is a Counselor and provides direct care to the children and teens receiving treatment from us. When we asked his teammates why they nominated Pierre for this honor, they said, Pierre is a great mentor! He helped me out tremendously when I first joined the team and was learning new things. He’s always willing to pick up shifts, never complains about assignments and works well with everyone. He’s an incredible teammate and we’re so thankful for him! We value people’s safety and health! Since no one else was standing within 10 feet of Pierre for his photo, he took off his mask for a quick moment to share his beautiful smile! Proper face mask usage and many other safety precautions continue at KVC Niles.

We have a long history in Missouri, and today we’re thrilled to share we’re building on that foundation. Check out some new steps we’re taking to create a broad continuum of care that can serve children and families with different needs. The heart of our work is helping peoplethat means strengthening families, preventing child abuse and neglect, and helping every person achieve mental health wellness.

As Social Work and Clinical Staff Appreciation Month wrap up, we have one last social worker to introduce to you! Meet Chrissy Reynolds, LCSW, LSCSW, Associate Director of Clinical Services. Learn more about Chrissy and her role, why she works at KVC Niles, her passion for youth mental health care and more! Why did you choose to go into this field? After spending over 10 years in foster care, I knew that I wanted a career where I could help others. I understand the difficu...Continue reading

"Last school year, I had a student (I will call him John) who came to Niles after having a very difficult time the year before. When talking with his previous teachers and school administrators, it was obvious he was one of the more difficult students in class. John's aggressive behaviors had gotten so severe that the safety of himself and everyone else around him was becoming increasingly at risk. After John arrived, he immediately showed the same behaviors that were describ...ed by his previous administrative team. This was very difficult for all the staff and teachers to manage. Even though this was so difficult, and at times it felt like the only thing to do was give up or suspend him, we all knew that we had to keep trying. John deserved our dedication and our hope. As I learned about John's past and the trauma he experienced, it became easier for me to understand why he was displaying aggressive behaviors. During the school year, I collaborated with other members of the Niles team to teach him new, healthy coping skills and interventions. It was so rewarding when we began to see progress! Instead of exhibiting aggressive behaviors toward staff daily, we only saw them a couple times a week. And as time went on, we noticed even more progress and only saw these behaviors a couple times a month. Before we knew it, he was no longer being aggressive toward other people. After a few months, John was no longer showing aggressive behaviors and would communicate with others about his feelings. This was a major milestone! John consistently demonstrated that he could be safe in an educational setting. Because of his progress, we began communicating with his previous school and started transitioning him back into the general classroom setting. Fast forward another year later, John is attending his high school, isn’t displaying aggressive behaviors, and wants to work part-time at a local restaurant! Remembering John and all of the progress he made while at Niles reminds me to keep going when facing new students that show difficult behaviors." This inspiring story of a student’s progress and the team who helped him resolve with his aggressive behaviors was submitted by Ryan, one of our incredible Niles Prep teachers, during KVC’s 2020 story contest. Learn more about Niles Prep at kvcniles.org/day-treatment.

Did you know that brains aren’t just born? They’re built! Every interaction we have from early childhood into adulthood helps shape our brains and the ways in which we respond to stress and adversity. This Brain Awareness Week , check out our blog to learn about the different parts of the brain, the ways in which stress affects its development, and things parents and caregivers can do to ensure their children grow healthy, resilient brains!

Meet Cheryl Costabile, LPC, LCPC, Niles’ new Director of Administration! We’re so thrilled she joined our team in December and are amazed at the positive impact she’s already making on our programs and the clients we serve. Continue reading to learn more about Cheryl, her experience in the clinical and social work fields, and a heartwarming story about a client who overcame the impacts of childhood trauma with Cheryl’s help. Why did you choose to go into this field of work...Continue reading

It’s Clinical Staff Appreciation Month and we want to recognize and celebrate our incredible clinical team members and social workers who help the youth we serve find hope and mental health wellness every day. Today we’re featuring one of our Therapists, Amanda Myer, LCSW! Continue reading to learn more about Amanda, why she chose to work at KVC Niles and her hopes for the future of children’s mental health care! Why did you choose this field of work? Throughout my career..., I have worked in various settings and environments with diverse populations. The golden thread that has connected all these experiences is that every single person has a unique story that is waiting to be heard. Stories are the reason I went into the social work/therapist field. To honor someone by truly listening as they talk about their life is the most humbling feeling in the world. I get very excited about opportunities to learn and grow my craft, to find better ways to be present and let someone’s truth unfold. Why did you choose Niles? I’m here because it seems there are populations, specifically youth with mental health struggles, who are not afforded the same respect to tell their story. I have the privilege of watching a child or teen’s eyes open wide as someone takes the time to sit with them and listen as they talk through some really tough experiences and feelings. That moment inspires hope and intrinsic motivation in them that is limitless. What is your role at Niles? I’m the school therapist for KVC Niles Prep where I facilitate group therapy and individual therapy for the youth attending our K-12 school. Currently, we are working through the Safety, Emotions, Loss, and Future curriculum which helps us have open and honest dialogue. It provides a great opportunity for psychoeducation on those topics, and psychoeducation refers to the way we teach our clients and their families about mental health to help them better understand their illness and develop coping skills. What are your hopes for the future of children’s mental health care? One of my main career goals is to help create more opportunities for therapeutic services to be available in all schools, which is a child’s second home and the best place to reach them. Want to join Amanda in listening to and honoring youth’s stories? We’re hiring for a variety of positions, including Therapists, Registered/Licensed Practical Nurses and more. Head to kvc.org/careers to explore our available opportunities!

Throughout March we’re recognizing and celebrating our incredible clinical team members and social workers who help the youth we serve find hope and mental health wellness every day. Today we’re featuring one of our therapists, Ashley Brest! Continue reading to learn more about Ashley, her job as a therapist and why she chose to work at Niles! What is your role at Niles? I’m a therapist and I work with children and teens who are struggling with their behavioral or mental h...Continue reading

COVID-19 is a source of stress and fear in youth. From information overload, school stress and adapting to the new normal, your child may be struggling with their mental health. Read this blog to learn how you can create a positive impact on their mental health and help them cope.

Sometimes life feels extra tough. And right now, there’s so much going on in the world and taking care of our mental health can feel intimidating or overwhelming. But being hopeful is being brave and we’re so proud of the progress YOU are making. Keep going, you’ve got this.

Are you the type of person who decorates for the holidays on November 1st or do you wait until after Thanksgiving? Well, according to research, holiday décor not only brightens your home, it can brighten your spirit and improve your mental health! Whether it’s the colorful twinkling lights, cheery music, or nostalgic memories of celebrations past, the holidays bring a sense of optimism for many people that can decrease stress and anxiety levels and boost your mood. For many k...ids and teens receiving intensive clinical services in our treatment center and being away from their families, the holidays can be a difficult time. But you can help lift their spirits and make their holidays brighter by becoming a Holiday Hero! We have three ways you can get involved this year, check them out at kvcniles.org/holidayhero and provide your donations by December 18! See more

When Eric Grove’s father was a child, he was helped by KVC Niles in Kansas City, MO. The childhood support that his father received not only made a huge difference in his own life but also Eric’s. As his father grew older, he become an influential leader in the community and one of Eric’s most important role models. Today, Tonya and Eric Groves are strong supporters of KVC Niles, and sister organization KVC Health Systems, because of the life-changing work KVC does to ensure every child, family and person receives the kindness and support they deserve. KVC Niles has a long, 135-year history and continues to make a meaningful difference in the Kansas City community. Learn more about Niles and how you can join us and the Groves family in enriching and enhancing the lives of children and families by going to kvcniles.org/about!

For 50 years, KVC has helped thousands of children and families overcome adversity and achieve mental health wellness. In the past year, KVC positively impacted 64,083 children, teens and adults, all thanks to generous supporters like YOU! Learn more about our 2020 impact from the Kylie, our adorable emcee in the video below! You can also check out our brand new Annual Report at kvc.org/impact/impact-overview

Looking to start a new holiday tradition this year? Become a Holiday Hero and make the season brighter for a child or teen receiving treatment at our psychiatric treatment center! These children are staying at our residential treatment center to receive intensive clinical serves for depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, the impacts of trauma or other mental health needs. Imagine being a child away from home during the holiday season. They miss their family and friends, and like any other child, they’re wondering if they will have gifts to open. Becoming a Holiday Hero is a rewarding way for you to show these kids how special they are! Sign up today at kvcniles.org/holidayhero

We had a SPOOKTACULAR Halloween weekend in our treatment center! Special thanks to Julie B. for donating some fang-tastic Halloween decorations and costumes, the Niles Auxiliary Club for tasty treat bags, and Sally M. from Kansas City Atheist Coalition (KCAC) for some awesome gifts bags full of candy, mp3 players and toys. Thanks to these incredible supporters, the youth we serve and our team members had an absolutely magical holiday! Want to help us plan more fun holiday surprises like this for our clients? Donate today to help us buy fun crafts, educational activities, yummy treats and more! kvcniles.org/donate

We’ve been so blessed by our community throughout this challenging year and our friends at St. James - Paseo and Yvette Richards blessed us again with this incredible donation of fun board and card games, personal care items, journaling notebooks and masks! This donation will not only help the kids and teens we serve have fun but also keep them safe. Thank you so much and we appreciate your support! You can help the youth receiving treatment from us find hope for the future! Head to kvcniles.org/donate to learn how you can make a difference. Your generosity helps us make their days special with fun events, crafts, educational activities and delicious treats!

To celebrate our employees and all their hard work these past few months, we brought in Southern Dogs, a locally-owned food company to cater an outdoor appreciation lunch! From hot dogs, chips and other tasty treats, our employees filled their bellies with great food and filled their hearts with gratitude. Learn more about our team and the work they do at kvcniles.org!

Are you having trouble getting your child to listen or follow directions? Do you find yourself frequently getting frustrated? KVC’s 13-part Parenting Series features research-backed videos, articles and worksheets created by experts on how to build a strong relationship with your child and become a calmer parent. Check out this FREE series here http://bit.ly/KVC-Parenting-Tips

2020 has been everything BUT normal. Back in March, the COVID-19 pandemic rapidly changed the way we live our daily lives, and disrupted, rescheduled and even cancelled normal traditions like graduation ceremonies, vacations and holiday celebrations. This upcoming holiday season will surely look different from years past, and that makes it the perfect time to begin NEW traditions! This year, start a new tradition and give back to children and teens in your community with our ...Holiday Heroes program! As a KVC Holiday Hero, you and your family will make this holiday season bright for a child or teen receiving life-changing psychiatric treatment. Starting TODAY we’re collecting presents, gift cards and monetary donations to make sure the children and teens in our care have a happy holiday. Sign up now to be a Holiday Hero at kvcniles.org/holidayhero! See more

Did you know KVC is 50 years old this year?! Thanks to the families and clients who have trusted us to provide care, our team members, donors, supporters, volunteers and community partners, KVC has made a positive difference in the lives of over 300,000 children, families and adults in our 50-year history. Check out our 2020 Impact Report and learn more about how your support has helped changed the lives of so many at kvc.org/impact/impact-overview

It’s finally starting to feel like Fall! During these last few weeks of comfortable temperatures and good weather, we’re getting our therapeutic garden, shed and Centurion Legacy Hoop House ready for the winter. With some wonderful volunteers from Centurions Leadership Program, U.S. Bank and Urban League of Greater Kansas City, we’ve made some great progress! Without our dedicated and helpful volunteers, this busy garden season wouldn’t have been as fruitful. We’re always looking for community partners and if you’re looking for a way to give back to kids and teens in KCMO, head to kvcniles.org/about to learn more!

Think back to when you were in school and try to remember a time you were teased or made fun of for something you couldn’t control. How did that make you feel? Did you understand why you were being bullied? According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly 5,000,000 U.S. students are still asking those same questions today. October is National Bullying Prevention Month and it’s important to understand the role we all play in stopping and preventing bullying. B...oth bullies and children who are bullied are at greater risk for mental and behavioral health challenges like anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties and more. The more we understand why and how people bully, the more we can each do to help stop and prevent bullying in our communities. Check out this article for more info about bullying, how it affects children, and how important it is to teach our kids to understand and accept people’s differences and practice kindness. See more

KVC is celebrating 50 Years of heart-centered service to children and families! Join us for a special 1-hour virtual event as we reflect on our past, hear personal stories from people whose lives have been impacted by KVC and present KVC Hero Awards and values-driven partner awards to the inspiring individuals and organizations listed below. Register today at www.kvc.org/event/50th-celebration KVC Heroes: Lynn Kaufman Beloved, long-time licensed clinical social worker at KVC ...Hospitals, helping children experiencing a mental health crisis, and creator of The Grump Meter Sesame Workshop Creators of the innovative Sesame Street in Communities initiative Values-Driven Partners: Aaron Thakker, a generous supporter of children and teens receiving psychiatric treatment at KVC Niles and KVC Hospitals Kevin Campbell of Family Finding - Making family connections for children in Foster Care University of Nebraska-Lincoln Kellie Hans Reid and Aetna Better Health of Kansas Mike Poppe and Chuck Ikner, Sleep Outfitters Robyn Lambert and Church of the Resurrection West

Have you checked how full your cup is recently? 2020 has been filled with so many disruptions and changes to our normal routines that it’s hard to make time to take care of ourselves. While it’s challenging to make room for self-care when so many people and projects are counting on you, be sure to prioritize filling your cup before you can fill others’. When we take time to nourish our minds, bodies and spirits, we’re better able to keep going, keep giving and keep thriving. Find some ideas on how you can show yourself some love and fill your cup at kvchospitals.org/self-care!