TLC Connections

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, we welcome Kristen Harootunian, national speaker with Minding Your Mind, to share her deeply moving personal story. Kristen reflects on her teenage years struggling with substance abuse, self-harm, and mental health challenges—and how a single moment of vulnerability began her path to recovery.

Now more than 10 years sober, Kristen travels the country speaking to students about the importance of asking for help, building coping skills, and knowing they’re not alone. She opens up about her relationship with her father, the pivotal role of supportive adults, and the power of sharing your story.

From early intervention to emotional honesty, Kristen’s message is one of hope, healing, and the life-changing impact of connection.

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Kristen Harootunian’s childhood was marked by significant pain, including her mother's attempting and completing suicide. As she grew older, she struggled with mental illness and substance use disorder as a way to cope with her pain. At one point, she even believed she wouldn't live past 18.

However, through numerous treatment efforts, Kristen was able to attend long-term treatment, go to a recovery high school, and eventually become a Penn State graduate, where she earned her BA in Corporate Communications. She was honored to be the commencement speaker at her own graduation.

Throughout this process, she has replaced harmful coping mechanisms with positive ones. She has been sharing her story since 2016 alongside Minding Your Mind, talking about the importance of therapy, a support structure, and how to ask for help.

Connect with Kristen at KristenHarootunian.com

Listen to the interview with Kristen and her father, Lee Harootunian, on Conversations that Matter

ABOUT MINDING YOUR MIND

Minding Your Mind is dedicated to ending stigma and destructive behaviors associated with mental health issues, moving away from a crisis-based response to prevention through education.

Using the power of storytelling to provide evidence-based education on mental health challenges to our audiences, their inspiring programs create safe communication spaces to discuss signs and symptoms often associated with mental health challenges and how to address them.

SPONSORS

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company serving the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, we welcome Cara Addis, a licensed professional counselor and board-certified art therapist, to explore how art therapy can help students navigate emotions, build resilience, and develop essential social skills. As a mobile school-based therapist, Cara works with students from ages 4 to 18, integrating creative expression into counseling to support emotional regulation and problem-solving. She shares insights on the unique challenges of working with different age groups and the importance of providing students with safe and consistent spaces to explore their thoughts, emotions, and creativity.

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Cara Addis is a licensed professional counselor, board-certified art therapist, and certified trauma professional. With more than four years at The Lincoln Center, she serves as a mobile school-based therapist, providing individual and group therapy to students across multiple districts. Cara specializes in integrating various art therapy methods into school settings—helping children and adolescents develop emotional regulation, social skills, and self-expression. Passionate about the power of creativity, she believes in using art as a tool for healing and personal growth.

Connect with Cara on LinkedIn

HOST BIO:

Alyssa Brouse, LCSW, is a dedicated mental health professional passionate about guiding individuals through life’s challenges. As Vice President of School-Based Services at TLC, Alyssa leads a team of mental health professionals providing critical support to school districts and their students.

With extensive experience spanning schools, hospitals, outpatient settings, and other clinical environments, Alyssa is uniquely equipped to support clients at various stages of life and care. Drawing from a diverse therapeutic toolkit that includes DBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, and more, she tailors each experience to meet her clients’ unique needs.

Connect with Alyssa on LinkedIn

SPONSORS:

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company serving the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, Captain Marc Pasquarella of SEPTA Police joins us to discuss an often-overlooked aspect of law enforcement: officer wellness.

With 15 years of experience in policing, Captain Pasquarella shares how SEPTA has embraced mental health support for officers, leading to a stronger, healthier police force. He details the formation of the Crisis Response Team, the department’s efforts to normalize mental health conversations, and the impact of leadership on departmental culture. He also speaks candidly about his own commitment to mental well-being, highlighting why proactive mental health care is essential for those in high-stress professions.

This conversation sheds light on the evolving culture of policing and the importance of supporting those who serve and protect our communities.

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Captain Marc Pasquarella has served with SEPTA Police since 2010, rising through the ranks from patrol officer to his current role as captain. A passionate advocate for officer wellness, he played a key role in developing SEPTA’s Crisis Response Team, which provides mental health support for officers in high-stress situations. With experience in patrol, special units, and leadership positions, Captain Pascarella is committed to fostering a culture of resilience and well-being within law enforcement.

HOST BIO:

Julie Knudsen, LCSW, is an experienced clinical and development professional dedicated to enhancing mental health and family well-being. Currently, she serves as the Director of Development at The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth. As a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in therapeutic services and nonprofit leadership, Julie's work has consistently focused on empowering individuals and families across a variety of behavioral health settings.

Previously, Julie worked as the Program Director at a prominent family services organization, where she led initiatives aimed at improving community access to mental health care. Continually building on her extensive background in social work and community service, Julie has served as a volunteer and Team Leader with Global Volunteers since 2006

Julie earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and her Master of Social Work (MSW) from Bryn Mawr College.

Connect with Julie onLinkedIn

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, we welcome Dr. Kalia Reynolds, Deputy Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer of the West Chester Area School District. Dr. Reynolds shares her journey from aspiring chemist to education leader and how Maya Angelou’s words, “When you know better, do better,” shape her leadership philosophy.

She discusses the importance of belonging in schools, her approach to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments, and her guiding mantra, “See, Smile, Succeed.” Dr. Reynolds dives into her experiences as a principal of a Blue Ribbon school, her commitment to supporting educators, and the challenges of leadership in today’s evolving educational landscape.

Join us for an inspiring conversation on how schools can empower every student to thrive through connection, care, and a culture of belonging.

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Dr. Kalia M. Reynolds serves as the Deputy Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer of the West Chester Area School District. With a career spanning roles as a special education teacher, assistant principal, principal, and elementary director, she brings extensive experience in supporting students and educators.

Dr. Reynolds earned her doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of Delaware, a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Temple University, and a bachelor’s degree in special education and psychology from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Her leadership is guided by a commitment to fostering student success, strengthening school communities, and ensuring all learners have the support they need to thrive.

SPONSOR:

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company serving the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, Rev. Jeremy Montgomery, CEO of Philly House, discussed the organization's 146-year history and its current operations. Founded in 1878 as the Sunday Breakfast Association of Philadelphia, Philly House has become the city's oldest and largest homeless shelter, serving 108,000 meals last year and sheltering 2,042 unique men. He discusses the root causes of homelessness, including mental health struggles and substance use disorders. Through case management, trauma-informed care, and strong community partnerships, Philly House is helping individuals regain stability, reconnect with their families, and reclaim their futures.

Jeremy also reflects on his personal journey—from growing up in a family that fostered dozens of children to leading one of Philadelphia’s most impactful nonprofits—it’s a conversation about hope, dignity, and the power of human connection in the fight against homelessness.

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Rev. Jeremy Montgomery is the CEO of Philly House, Philadelphia’s oldest and largest homeless shelter, providing food, shelter, and comprehensive support to thousands of men experiencing homelessness each year. Jeremy brings a unique background in ministry, social services, and business leadership, holding both a seminary degree and an MBA.

Jeremy's journey in ministry began in high school when God placed it on his heart to tend to those in need living in our urban centers. Jeremy attended Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary where he received his M.A. in Urban Ministry. After a decade of ministry experience, he continued his educational studies at Eastern University to receive his M.B.A. in Management. Jeremy has found a true calling in steering the establishment of unparalleled levels of service for the homeless population of Philadelphia. Arriving at Philly House in November 2018 after 8 years with Habitat for Humanity, he transitioned a New Jersey Habitat affiliate from all-volunteer to staff-driven and grew its operating budget from $175,000 to $3.1-million.

Growing up with his parents and with over 100 foster brothers and sisters, Jeremy knows firsthand the importance of ensuring everyone has access to the full spectrum of resources required to physically and spiritually thrive. Especially having a safe, caring place to live. Passionate about restoring dignity and relationships, Jeremy is committed to creating pathways for stability and self-sufficiency for those in need.

SPONSOR:

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company serving the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

SUMMARY:

Gun violence is more than just an emergency room crisis—it’s a public health issue. In this episode of TLC Connections, we speak with Dr. Greg Casey, an emergency medicine physician at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, about the innovative Violence Intervention and Prevention Program (VIPP).

This hospital-based program, created in partnership with Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic and The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth, takes a holistic approach to addressing violence by connecting victims with critical resources, therapy, and follow-up care. Dr. Casey discusses the importance of treating the person, not just the injury, and how breaking the cycle of retaliation is key to preventing further violence in the community.

From personal stories of impact to the program’s expansion across multiple hospitals, this episode highlights the power of healthcare professionals working beyond the ER to create safer, healthier communities.

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Dr. Greg Casey is an emergency medicine physician at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, the EMS Medical Director for Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic, and an Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at Drexel University College of Medicine.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to medical education, Dr. Casey received the Dean’s Special Award for Excellence in Clinical Teaching from Drexel University College of Medicine.

Dr. Casey has been instrumental in launching the Violence Intervention and Prevention Program (VIPP), a collaborative initiative between Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic and The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth. This program provides holistic support to victims of violence, offering therapy, social services, and follow-up care to reduce retaliation and promote healing.

In addition to his leadership in emergency medicine, Dr. Casey is passionate about integrating violence prevention strategies with EMS care, working to improve long-term health outcomes for patients and communities. His dedication to compassionate, patient-centered care and innovative community outreach continues to drive meaningful change in both emergency medicine and medical education.

HOST BIO

Alyssa Brouse, LCSW, is a dedicated mental health professional passionate about guiding individuals through life’s challenges. As Vice President of School-Based Services at TLC, Alyssa leads a team of mental health professionals providing critical support to school districts and their students.

With extensive experience spanning schools, hospitals, outpatient settings, and other clinical environments, Alyssa is uniquely equipped to support clients at various stages of life and care. Drawing from a diverse therapeutic toolkit that includes DBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, and more, she tailors each experience to meet her clients’ unique needs.

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, Kaitlyn (Kate) Lorenz, Regional Outreach Manager for Monte Nido, delves into the nuanced world of eating disorder care. She discusses how trauma, biology, and societal factors like diet culture and social media contribute to disordered eating behaviors. Kate shares her personal story of recovery, her professional path into mental health, and the transformative impact of integrated care. With insights on the latest treatments, challenges like GLP-1 medications, and the importance of fostering food neutrality, this conversation sheds light on the hope and potential for recovery in the face of complex mental health challenges.

Full video episodes are available on YouTube

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Kate Lorenz is the Regional Outreach Manager for Monte Nido, a nationally recognized eating disorder treatment organization. With a deep passion for mental health advocacy and recovery, Kate works to educate providers in Pennsylvania about eating disorder resources, treatment options, and the importance of integrated care. Her professional journey is rooted in personal experience, including her path to sobriety, which ignited a commitment to helping others heal. Kate combines her expertise and compassion to make meaningful connections and support individuals and families on their journey to recovery.

Connect with Kaitlyn on LinkedIn

ABOUT MONTE NIDO:

Monte Nido is a trusted leader in the field of eating disorder treatment, offering a full continuum of care that includes residential, day treatment, and intensive outpatient programs. Founded over two decades ago, Monte Nido began as a small six-bed residential program and has since grown into a nationally recognized provider with locations across the United States. Their evidence-based, compassionate approach combines medical, nutritional, and therapeutic care to address the complex needs of individuals struggling with eating disorders. Monte Nido’s highly trained team of professionals is dedicated to fostering recovery and empowering clients to develop a healthier relationship with food, body image, and themselves. To learn more, visit montenido.com

Monte Nido has conducted the largest longitudinal study of clients in eating treatment programs. You can view and download the 2024 Comprehensive Outcomes Report here

SPONSORS:

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company serving the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, Chris Dormer, Superintendent of Norristown Area School District shares his inspiring journey of collaboration and leadership. Chris discusses how he led the district through a financial turnaround, the collaborative process to develop a $300 million capital improvement project, and ushering in expanded mental health services and educational programming.

He reflects on the profound influence of a college professor's empathy on his career path and emphasizes the need to balance technology with human connection in education. From preparing students for a global society to reimagining modern learning environments, Chris offers valuable insights into the future of education. Join us for a conversation about leadership, innovation, and the power of connection.

Full video episodes are available on YouTube

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Chris Dormer joined the Norristown Area School District in 2016, bringing a wealth of experience and a commitment to transformative leadership in public education. He began his career as an Instructional Assistant in the Lower Merion School District before spending 13 years in the Upper Darby School District. There, he excelled as a Biology teacher, coach, and Athletic Director at Upper Darby High School before transitioning to administration as an Assistant Principal in 2005. In 2008, he became Principal of Upper Darby High School, a role he held for five years, followed by three years as Principal of Oxford Area High School. He joined Norristown as Assistant Superintendent and was appointed Superintendent of Schools in 2018.

Chris holds a Bachelor’s degree from LaSalle University, a Master’s degree in Education from Cabrini University, and a Principal’s Certification from St. Joseph’s University. He completed his doctoral coursework and earned his Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility at Neumann University. His excellence in educational leadership was recognized during the 2007-2008 school year when he was honored as Pennsylvania Assistant Principal of the Year by the Pennsylvania Association of Elementary and Secondary School Principals and the National Association of Secondary School Principals.

In addition to his professional achievements, Chris is deeply involved in the community. He is an active member of the Rotary Club of Norristown and serves on the board of the Friends of the Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library.

Chris resides in Aston, PA, with his wife, Michele, their three daughters, and two dogs. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys reading, golfing, small-scale building projects, camping, and cherishing time with his family.

HOST BIO:

GT Freeman, PhD is the current President & CEO of The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth. GT has more than 20 years of experience in Fortune 100 corporations, small businesses, and nonprofits as a consultant and leader. Prior to joining TLC, GT served as the Program Director of Executive Education at North Carolina State University and Lead Evaluator for two US Department of Education grants. He also served as the Headmaster of a private K-12 school in Charlotte, NC., and as an Adjunct Faculty member at numerous universities.

GT earned his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University, a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Organizational Leadership from Regent University. GT is also a Certified Professional Facilitator, Lean-Six Sigma Black Belt, Board Certified Coach (BCC), and Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).

Connect with GT on LinkedIn

SUMMARY:

In this episode, Lieutenant Rodger H. Ollis, Jr. reflects on his journey into law enforcement and the values that shaped his approach to community policing. From his construction roots to his leadership in the City of Coatesville Police Department, Lt. Ollis shares how his parents’ lessons in hard work and relationship-building influenced his philosophy on policing.

Lt. Ollis discusses innovative programs he championed, like juvenile ticketing for positive behavior, highlighting the difference between law enforcement and true community policing. He shares a transformative story about an encounter with a child that redefined his approach to serving the community and emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed training for officers.

Full video episodes are available on YouTube

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Lieutenant Rodger H. Ollis, Jr. is a dedicated law enforcement professional with over fifteen years of service in the City of Coatesville Police Department. A graduate of West Chester University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice, Rodger also completed training at the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Academy. His career reflects a deep commitment to fostering relationships, improving public safety, and enhancing the quality of life in his community.

Rodger has been instrumental in developing Coatesville’s community policing program, which focuses on proactive crime prevention, education, and outreach. He has also collaborated with local businesses, organizations, and residents to build meaningful partnerships that strengthen the community-police relationship.

In addition to his policing work, Rodger is actively involved in community service. He serves on the boards of the Newlin Foundation and the Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness and provides training for the Lethality Assessment Program (LAP), an evidence-based approach to addressing domestic violence. His contributions extend to local coalitions and task forces aimed at reducing crime, promoting safety, and supporting community revitalization efforts.

Rodger lives in Coatesville with his wife, Michele, and their four children. His family is his greatest source of pride and a constant reminder of the importance of building a strong and connected community.

Connect with Rodger on LinkedIn

HOST BIO:

Julie Knudsen, LCSW, is an experienced clinical and development professional dedicated to enhancing mental health and family well-being. Currently, she serves as the Director of Development at The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth. As a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in therapeutic services and nonprofit leadership, Julie's work has consistently focused on empowering individuals and families across a variety of behavioral health settings.

Connect with Julie on LinkedIn

SPONSORS:

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company serving the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

SUMMARY:

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. LaTanya White-Springfield, Director of Student Services at Pottstown School District and a proud Pottstown native. LaTanya shares her inspiring journey from psychology student to educational leader, driven by her passion for personalized education and authentic community connection.

She reflects on the key mentors who shaped her approach to supporting students and discusses the evolution of Pottstown’s Virtual and Alternative Learning (VAL) Programs, including the innovative Beech Street Learning Studio. Known for her forward-thinking leadership, LaTanya offers insights into meeting students where they are, balancing professional relationships, and addressing the unique challenges faced by women administrators of color.

This conversation highlights her unwavering commitment to empowering students, fostering community engagement, and using innovative approaches to meet the diverse needs of learners in both traditional and virtual settings.

Full video episodes are available on YouTube

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Dr. LaTanya White-Springfield is the Director of Student Services at Pottstown School District and an Independent Educational Consultant for KenKayd Consulting. With extensive experience in virtual and alternative learning, she established a district-wide evaluation tool and a comprehensive K-12 Virtual and Alternative Learning Program.

Previously, as Director of Tri-County Learning Academy, she developed programs for at-risk students, empowering them to reach their potential. Her career also includes roles as a guidance counselor, therapeutic support counselor, and case manager, showcasing her dedication to meeting the diverse needs of today’s youth.

LaTanya founded a women's leadership group, The Lady Dahlia’s, that focuses on women empowerment, mentorship, and community service. LaTanya advocates for the Women’s Center for Domestic Violence Prevention and serves on the Board of Directors for the Tri-County YWCA.

She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and remains deeply committed to advancing student success. Raised in Pottstown and a graduate of Pottstown School District, she is passionately connected to her community and driven to foster positive change in education and youth development.

Connect with LaTanya on LinkedIn

HOST BIO:

Alyssa Brouse, LCSW, is a dedicated mental health professional passionate about guiding individuals through life’s challenges. As Vice President of School-Based Services at The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth, Alyssa leads a team of mental health professionals providing critical support to school districts and their students, fostering community well-being and resilience.

Connect with Alyssa on LinkedIn

SPONSORS:

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company serving the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.