The Fidelis Care Blog

April is frequently regarded as a time of rebirth, heralding the arrival of spring. During this month, flowers begin to bloom, birds fill the air with song, and the sun shines brightly, symbolizing renewal, growth, and new beginnings. And April is recognized as Counseling Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of mental health and support.

This month-long celebration highlights the importance of mental health and emphasizes the role of counseling as a tool to well-being. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or encouraging a friend, now is an ideal time to explore the benefits of counseling and its positive impact on our lives.

Imagine stepping outside into the sun, its rays scorching your skin and blinding you with their brilliance. The birds' songs pierce your ears, resonating at a decibel level comparable to that of a jet engine. Now, envision your clothing feeling abrasive against your skin, akin to sandpaper, while the scent of nearby flowers is so overwhelming that it becomes inescapable. These overwhelming sensations are how many children and adults with sensory disorder experience spring.

Ardent Solutions, a rural health network based in Allegany County, New York, expresses our gratitude for our partnership with Fidelis Care and its generous behavioral health grant investment in the First Step Family Resource Center’s Sensory-Friendly Learning Center. Children with a sensory processing disorder may have an increased or decreased sensitivity to sensory input, such as light, sound, and touch. This initiative is dedicated to supporting children 5 and younger by fostering sensory-friendly play and promoting early childhood development - encompassing emotional, psychological, and cognitive health.

Sensory-Friendly Open Play sessions are held every Monday for two hours, allowing children to enjoy the First Step Family Resource Center in a calmer environment featuring reduced noise, dimmed lighting, and fewer attendees. During these sessions, children can engage in sensory bin activities, explore sensory-friendly toys, and utilize a variety of tools and equipment, including spinning and swivel chairs, a squeeze machine, and a blackout sensory tent.

“All children benefit from sensory-friendly play,” explains Robin Fuller, Ardent Solutions’ Early Childhood Development Coordinator. “The Sensory-Friendly Play Center is not only open during our designated Sensory-Friendly Open Play hours, but children can also visit the Center anytime.”

Parents and caregivers receive education on sensory-related issues, participate in Ages and Stages Developmental Screenings, and are provided with information and referrals to local resources, such as Early Intervention programs. Parents can also connect with others facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of community and reassurance that they are not alone.

“Children with sensory processing disorder may be sensory seeking or sensory avoiding.” continued Fuller. “This can be displayed through extreme tantrums, sudden outbursts, crashing into walls or other people, and struggling with social interactions and emotional overload. Parents and caregivers are often confused by their child’s extreme behaviors. This stress can lead to self-isolating, anxiety, and depression.”

Families can explore various therapeutic tools, including weighted vests, blankets, and stuffed animals. Children may utilize noise-canceling headphones or learn self-soothing techniques to aid in emotional regulation. All services are provided at no cost, thanks to our partners at Fidelis Care.

Let us actively engage this April in promoting mental health awareness and recognizing the dedicated counselors who contribute to this vital cause!

Helen Evans is the Associate Director at Ardent Solutions, Inc. and has devoted her professional career to health literacy, rural health equity, and fostering collaborations to address rural health disparities. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education at SUNY Fredonia and is a graduate of the Health Leadership Fellows Program through the Health Foundation for Western New York. She is currently earning her master’s in business administration. Helen served six years on the Board of Directors for the New York State Association for Rura Health, four of which she acted as President. She is passionate about motivating community leaders to explore methods for improving the healthcare service delivery system and inspiring community members to achieve improved personal health.