At The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc), the people we serve are at the center of everything we do. We recognize that people are complex. Our thoughts, emotions, goals, desires, and past experiences, both positive and challenging, influence how we show up in any given situation. While we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month in May, our commitment to supporting the emotional health and well-being of people with disabilities is year-round, because mental health matters every day, in every moment, and for every person. 

Behavioral Health: An Evolution 

Founded in 2020, Behavioral Health supports people with disabilities and mental health diagnoses to develop the tools and resources each person needs to navigate life’s many moments. Our licensed clinicians are committed to truly understanding each person, addressing behaviors that may create barriers, and supporting them in living the life they want to lead.  

We created Behavioral Health with the belief that behavioral health and mental health services should be integrated, trauma-informed, and person-centered. 

Our licensed clinicians work closely with each person, their family, and their support team to co-create strategies rooted in empathy, safety, and respect. By focusing on emotional well-being as a foundation for independence, The Arc’s Behavioral Health team helps people move forward at their own pace and on their own terms. 

This Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re celebrating by sharing the stories of three people whose journeys highlight the power of compassionate and personalized behavioral health support.  

Doug’s Story: Rebuilding Confidence After a Big Life Change 

Doug is a vibrant young man who thrives on the structure of his routine at school. Leaving the comfort of the environment he knew caused him anxiety, and he became more withdrawn. For a while, even short trips outside the house felt overwhelming.  

With support from The Arc’s Behavioral Health team, Doug slowly rebuilt his confidence. The team collaborates closely with Doug, his family, and his DSPs, relying on the DSPs’ daily insights to shape a plan grounded in empathy, patience, and emotional safety. By equipping his DSPs with the tools and strategies to respond with consistency and care, Doug feels more supported in moments that once felt overwhelming. Today, he’s venturing out on his own, forming new relationships, and reconnecting with the world around him. 

His growing independence has brought both joy to his family and a renewed sense of self.  

Tiffany’s Story: Finding Security After Past Challenges

Tiffany is someone who lights up a room with her love of music, knack for puzzles, and enthusiasm. For much of her early life, she didn’t always have access to the freedom and choices she deserved. These experiences had a lasting impact on her, leading to fears around food security and trust. 

When Tiffany came to The Arc, she was connected with the Behavioral Health team. Together with her DSPs, they created a personalized approach that centers her comfort, strengths, and autonomy, especially during mealtimes, which are now predictable, calming, and safe. 

Today, Tiffany moves through her community and Day Program with growing confidence and joy. Recently, she completed a challenging puzzle at her local library, a quiet but powerful moment of pride and persistence that reflects just how far she’s come. 

Michelle’s Story: A Direct Support Professional (DSP) Getting Support to Help Others  

When Peter began services with The Arc last year, he and his family were apprehensive about starting a new chapter, given all he had been through. That’s when Michelle, a DSP, stepped into his life. 

Michelle was new to supporting someone with Peter’s specific needs, but by partnering with the Behavioral Health team, she didn’t have to navigate it alone. Michelle received in-depth training on trauma-informed care, helping her understand how Peter’s past experiences affect his daily life. Together, Michelle and the Behavioral Health team were able to look at Peter from new angles and provide strategies to ensure she was meeting Peter where he was in the moment and supporting him with empathy and intention. 

With ongoing coaching and support from the Behavioral Health team, Michelle has not only grown in her professional skills but has built a trusting and supportive relationship with Peter, one where he feels safe, seen, and empowered to try new things. Behavioral Health gave Michelle the tools she needed to do her job well, and most importantly, to help Peter find connection and a renewed sense of possibility. 

The Arc is Here for You 

These are just a few of the many stories that demonstrate how The Arc’s Behavioral Health supports people in leading the lives they choose — with dignity, emotional safety, and joy. The program was built to create a meaningful, holistic model of support that respects the complexity of each person’s experience, especially for those who have faced trauma or struggled to find support that truly meets their needs. 

If you or someone you know with a disability could benefit from behavioral health support, learn more about our services at https://thearcccr.org/services/#behavioral-health  or reach out today. The Arc is here to help.