William H, Author at Preferred Behavioral Health Group

Preferred Behavioral Health Group CEO, Dr. Tara Chalakani, Accepted Into Forbes Non-Profit Council

NEWS RELEASE – MAY 17, 2024 CEO, Dr. Tara Chalakani Accepted Into Forbes Non-Profit Council Forbes Nonprofit Council is an invitation-only community for chief executives in successful nonprofit organizations LAKEWOOD, NJ — Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG) today announced that Dr. Tara Chalakani, CEO, has been accepted to Forbes Nonprofit Council, an invitation-only professional community for chief executives in successful nonprofit organizations. Dr. Chalakani was selected by a review committee based on the depth and diversity of her experience. Criteria for acceptance include a track record of successfully impacting business growth metrics, as well as personal and professional achievements and honors. “I’m thrilled to join this exclusive organization for top executives and leaders at prominent nonprofits throughout the country,” said Dr. Tara Chalakani, CEO of PBHG. “Participation in the Forbes Nonprofit Council will give Preferred Behavioral Health Group another tool in which to increase our exposure, fundraising ability, and networking in the nonprofit universe as our organization continues to grow and serve more individuals and families.” As a member of the Council, Dr. Chalakani has access to a variety of exclusive opportunities designed to help her reach peak professional influence. She will connect and collaborate with other respected leaders in a private forum. She will also have the opportunity to share her expert insights in original articles and contribute to published Expert Panels alongside other experts on Forbes.com. ABOUT FORBES COUNCILS: Forbes Councils is a collective of invitation-only communities created in partnership with Forbes and the expert community builders who founded Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC). In Forbes Councils, exceptional business owners and leaders come together with the people and resources that can help them thrive. To learn more about Forbes Councils, visit https://councils.forbes.com. ABOUT DR. TARA CHALAKANI: As the CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group, Dr. Tara is a proud Latina that leads a dynamic and diverse organization that provides comprehensive and compassionate behavioral health services and substance use services to individuals and communities across the lifespan in New Jersey. She has a growth-minded and strategic vision for improving the quality, accessibility, and affordability of care, while fostering a trauma-informed and stigma-free culture within and beyond her organization. Dr. Tara is a seasoned clinician, educator, public speaker, and podcast co-host with over 30 years of expansive experience in the healthcare field. She holds a Doctor of Psychology degree from Walden University, with a specialization in Behavioral Health Leadership. She is also an Associate Professor at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, a Member of CHIEF, a network for women leaders, and an Approved Clinical Supervisor by NBCC. ABOUT PBHG: Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG) is at the forefront of behavioral healthcare in New Jersey, offering comprehensive services since 1978. Committed to fostering healing and hope, PBHG provides top-tier mental health, substance use, and prevention services with a focus on trauma-informed care and inclusivity. With a dedication to innovation and personalized care, PBHG empowers individuals, families, and communities to embrace well-being and attain optimal mental wellness. Explore PBHG’s transformative programs and services, grounded in trauma-informed care practices, at preferredbehavioral.org. ###

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Navigating the Rollercoaster of Parenthood: Understanding Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

As expectant parents prepare for the arrival of their little ones, amidst assembling cribs and deciphering car seat manuals, there’s another essential aspect of parenthood that often goes unnoticed: mental health. Our own Medical Director, Dr. Catherine Cunningham, a psychiatrist and mother, aims to shed light on a crucial yet often overlooked topic—Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). Author: Catherine M. Cunningham, MD PMADs are possibly the most underdiagnosed obstetrical complication in America, affecting up to one in seven women/gestational parents and up to one in ten men/non-gestational parents. These disorders can manifest anytime during pregnancy and up to a year after delivery, yet many individuals are unaware of their existence. Expectant parents may have heard of the Baby Blues—a transient period of mood swings and tearfulness following childbirth. However, it’s vital to recognize the distinction between the Baby Blues and PMADs. While the Baby Blues typically resolve within two weeks and allow individuals to find joy in daily activities despite feeling tired, PMADs can be much more severe and prolonged. With PMADs, feelings of gloominess, irritability, and excessive guilt persist for two weeks or longer, robbing individuals of the ability to experience pleasure. Exhaustion does not provide rejuvenation for individuals experiencing PMADs, in contrast to the restorative effects of sleep observed during the Baby Blues. In the most severe cases, individuals may experience suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming their baby, warranting immediate medical attention. Recognizing these symptoms in oneself can be challenging, which is why it’s crucial for partners, family, and friends to remain vigilant. If any concerning changes in a loved one’s behavior or mood are noticed, initiating a conversation and encouraging seeking professional help is essential. By raising awareness and fostering open dialogue about PMADs, a supportive environment for expectant and new parents can be created, ensuring that no one navigates the journey of parenthood alone. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and seeking treatment can be the first step towards reclaiming joy and well-being in this transformative chapter of life. Let’s support each other and prioritize mental health as we embark on this remarkable journey of parenthood together. No one is alone. If you feel you or a loved one need support, please contact us. Preferred Behavioral Health is here to help.