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The Counseling Team International (TCTI) Extends the Early Mission of BHAWPs

Although their popularity surged in the 1970s with government funding for alcohol abuse treatment, Behavioral Health and Wellness Programs (BHAWPs) actually began in 1917, shortly before the end of World War I.^* Emotional turmoil sometimes accompanied by alcohol or drug abuse, also affected World War II’s military and their families.

“Our nation recognized early after World War II that adjusting to civilian life was noticeably difficult for those who served,” says Nancy K. Bohl-Penrod, Ph.D. “What we now call posttraumatic syndrome, or PTSD, may very likely be what they were experiencing. And like today, the symptoms of PTSD and other mental health issues would show up in the workplace through absenteeism, poor work habits and often addiction.”

As Director of the Counseling Team International, Dr. Bohl-Penrod has witnessed firsthand how left untreated; mental health issues can take a tremendous toll on employees and family members. She knows that stress of any work-related situation can create a “war” within a person’s mind, body and spirit. Treating the effect of that stress – and keeping anxiety and pressure at bay – is her passion and her mission.

“Whether you’re in law enforcement, fire service, education, healthcare or any level of government; having services provided to you and your immediate family members provides comfort in knowing that you have constant backup,” adds Dr. Bohl-Penrod.

“Today’s professionals can face unexpected events in their life which affect their job performance and other areas of their life,” says Bohl-Penrod. “We work to provide the best support, resources and training to all employees so that they can experience a balanced and fulfilling career and home life.”

“I became a believer in The Counseling Team International’s services when The State of California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), sent us a letter stating that they had saved 4 million dollars, saying they believed it was because of crisis intervention services.”

Since 1985, Dr. Bohl-Penrod has dedicated herself to serving others. In doing so, she has become a nationally recognized leader in Critical Incident Stress Management, Peer Counseling Support Training and even Hostage Negotiations.

In the early years, TCTI began providing employee support services to law enforcement, fire, emergency services and governmental agencies in the State of California, as well as nationwide. The organization began contracting with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department to provide Stand by Status (SBS) 24/7/365, and Critical Incident Stress Management services (CISM) to Sheriff’s personnel involved in shootings. This immediate intervention produced impressive tangible results. TCTI’s efforts decreased Worker’s compensation claims to such a degree that TCTI was encouraged to expand its services to counseling San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department staff and their family members for a variety of personal problems. In addition, TCTI offered many training classes on how to cope under duress.

“I am extremely proud of our team,” says Dr. Bohl-Penrod. “Our highly qualified mental health professionals and superior support staff have allow TCTI to grow and serve thousands of employees over the years.”

TCTI can help your employees, too. Whether their issues involve work situations, family life, health or financial challenges — or other stress-related problems — TCTI is the first responder for their needs.

*Source: NYS Work-Life Services > Employee Assistance Program > History of EAP