Behavioral Healthcare, Inc. - "Your doorway to Choice, Hope and Recovery"

Mary D., a shy 25-year-old, was homeless and suffered from major depression & anxiety, having had difficulties with completing her master's degree in education at UF due to her mental illness and homelessness. She was about ready to drop out of school due to severe depression and anxiety exacerbated by a poor ability to cope with the stress of school and being homeless. Mary was sleeping on benches on UF campus after her friends had kicked her out because of her inability to contribute for any rent.

Mary was admitted to Meridian's HOPE program. After her condition was stabilized with medication, she enrolled in the disabilities program at UF as well and was linked with therapy services through UF psychiatry clinic where she received group and individual therapy. Mary was able to adjust her class schedule to a slower pace. She was in the HOPE Program for 18 months and during this time was able to obtain a substitute teaching position with the School Board of Alachua County. Once she completed her master's degree in education Mary was able to transition into permanent housing and obtain a full time teaching position. She has since been able to maintain a positive and successful career and housing, with the assistance of continued medication treatment and therapy.