Giving Tuesday – November 28

by Joan Braveman | Nov 15, 2023 | News

Can We Count On You to Help Us On Our Recovery Journey?

There truly are great things happening in Kensington, and COMHAR has been around for almost 50 years, positively impacting the lives of individuals in the great city of Philadelphia. In the words of a proud member of the COMHAR Board of Directors, “I take pride in spreading the word about this positivity that exists within a part of our city where we usually only hear about “negative news”.”

As a Mission Driven/People First organization, COMHAR empowers members to live healthier, self-determined lives. Through the Open Door Clubhouse members are given the opportunity for self-determination through the running of daily meetings and the operations of the Clubhouse as they work toward preparation of an employment plan. In the HOPE programs, members are given art lessons so they can express themselves in a creative manner. Evidence Based Therapy is offered to members in the outpatient division.

Through Recovery Journeys on our website one can see the positive impact COMHAR has on it’s members.

To help support others on their journey, donate now.

Giving Tuesday Is Coming Soon – November 28th

by Joan Braveman | Nov 8, 2023 | News

Can We Count On You to Help Us On Our Recovery Journey?

There truly are great things happening in Kensington, and COMHAR has been around for almost 50 years, positively impacting the lives of individuals in the great city of Philadelphia. In the words of a proud member of the COMHAR Board of Directors, “I take pride in spreading the word about this positivity that exists within a part of our city where we usually only hear about “negative news”.”

As a Mission Driven/People First organization, COMHAR empowers members to live healthier, self-determined lives. Through the Open Door Clubhouse members are given the opportunity for self-determination through the running of daily meetings and the operations of the Clubhouse as they work toward preparation of an employment plan. In the HOPE programs, members are given art lessons so they can express themselves in a creative manner. Evidence Based Therapy is offered to members in the outpatient division.

Through Recovery Journeys on our website one can see the positive impact COMHAR has on it’s members.

Support My Journey

COMHAR Participates in 37th Annual AIDS Walk

by Joan Braveman | Oct 20, 2023 | News

COMHAR participated in the 37^th Annual Aids Walk on Sunday, October 15^th. Joined by over 1,000 participants, COMHAR’s Community Living Room, which offers services to adults living with HIV/AIDS and a mental health diagnosis, gathered to show support for over 27,000 people living with HIV/AIDS in the Philadelphia area.

A brisk walk along Kelly Drive started in the early morning hours on Sunday. Exhibitors who provide services to those living with AIDS shared information about their services with the attendees. Live music, contests, and prizes were provided. The walkers raised over $200,000 with supporters sponsoring their walk! This brings the 37-year total to over $18M.

For more information about COMHAR’s services for people living with AIDS, please call 215-569-8414 or visit our website at COMHAR.

A Vital Community Initiative

by Joan Braveman | Oct 20, 2023 | News

COMHAR Awarded Opportunity to Train Clinicians in Prolonged Exposure Therapy

In a groundbreaking development for the Philadelphia community, COMHAR Outpatient Services has been awarded the prestigious opportunity to train clinicians in Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) through an Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) designation.

EPIC has partnered with COMHAR to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that the latest, most effective treatment modalities reach those who need them most. COMHAR’s selection for this EBP designation recognizes the clinic’s commitment to excellence, data-driven practices, and continuous improvement in mental health care.

Prolonged Exposure Therapy is an integral component. This evidence-based therapy approach is primarily used to treat individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in alleviating the burdens of trauma and helping members regain control over their lives.

In the Philadelphia community, where trauma-related mental concerns often go unaddressed, the introduction of PET represents a significant step forward. Its importance cannot be overstated, and here is why:

1. Targeted Healing

2. Improved Quality of Life

3. Empowering Clinicians

4. Reduced Stigma

In conclusion, COMHAR‘s achievement in being awarded the opportunity to train clinicians in Prolonged Exposure Therapy is a significant step forward in the quest for evidence-based, data-driven mental health care in Philadelphia. Prolonged Exposure Therapy, as a critical component of this endeavor, promises to make a lasting impact on the community by addressing trauma-related mental health issues and fostering healing and resilience.

COMHAR‘s commitment to senior leadership in the field, paired with its dedication to evidence-based practices, is a beacon of hope for individuals and families who have longed for effective, accessible mental health support in the community.

August/September 2023 Newsletter

by Joan Braveman | Oct 2, 2023 | News

Welcome to Volume 8 of PEOPLE FIRST, COMHAR’s Agency Newsletter. In this issue you will read about how the children in COMHAR’s Latino Treatment Program were prepared for the first day of school; the 25th Anniversary party for the Independence House; a preview of SafeinHome; the COMHAR/NAMI Kick-Off Walk; and more!

If you are interested in receiving the newsletter electronically, please email a request to info@comhar.org.