In this episode, we break down the differences between stress, anxiety, and depression. Learn how each affects mental health, their unique symptoms, and when to seek help.

Brian Valasek is dedicated to helping you step out of your comfort zone to discover your most authentic self. Courageously facing your core problem head-on may be the most difficult and rewarding pursuit of your life. Counseling provides the support and tools necessary to take this journey that leads to healing and growth.
⠀
Over the last 18 years, Brian has helped hundreds of people through valleys of shame, social anxiety, and addiction to a place where self-awareness, assertiveness and self-esteem thrive. These experiences have helped him redefine a problem as an opportunity to grow, learn, and live into our purpose, passion and gifts as we strive toward our full potential.
⠀
Brian does not claim to have the golden path to recovery, but he has traveled down some of these same roads himself and believes that his personal experience and perspectives helps him help you better. The insight you gain in therapy and the actions you take as a result of therapy have the power to change the course of your life. We invite you to reach out and take your first step toward freedom.

Brian specializes in addiction, anxiety, social anxiety, assertive communication and self-esteem with adults and older adults.

Beyond Your Valley
City of Montgomery

In this episode, we explore the differences between therapy and psychiatric care. Learn how traditional talk therapy addresses emotional and behavioral issues, while psychiatric therapy involves medical treatment, including medication. Discover how these approaches can complement each other to provide comprehensive care for mental health and well-being.

Brian Valasek is dedicated to helping you step out of your comfort zone to discover your most authentic self. Courageously facing your core problem head-on may be the most difficult and rewarding pursuit of your life. Counseling provides the support and tools necessary to take this journey that leads to healing and growth.
⠀
Over the last 18 years, Brian has helped hundreds of people through valleys of shame, social anxiety, and addiction to a place where self-awareness, assertiveness and self-esteem thrive. These experiences have helped him redefine a problem as an opportunity to grow, learn, and live into our purpose, passion and gifts as we strive toward our full potential.
⠀
Brian does not claim to have the golden path to recovery, but he has traveled down some of these same roads himself and believes that his personal experience and perspectives helps him help you better. The insight you gain in therapy and the actions you take as a result of therapy have the power to change the course of your life. We invite you to reach out and take your first step toward freedom.

Brian specializes in addiction, anxiety, social anxiety, assertive communication and self-esteem with adults and older adults.

Beyond Your Valley
City of Montgomery

In this episode, we dive into the sensitive but important topic of suicidal ideation, exploring the warning signs, underlying causes, and available treatments. We break down how to recognize when someone might be struggling, the various forms these thoughts can take, and ways to offer support. With insights from Dr. Tracy Cummings, we aim to provide listeners with tools to navigate these conversations with care and compassion. Whether you're supporting a loved one or seeking help for yourself, this discussion offers valuable resources and hope for healing and recovery.

Dr. Tracy Cummings, a 2023 Cincy Best Doc in the Child & Adolescent Psychiatry category, is the Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Medical Director of adolescent PHP for the Lindner Center of HOPE. As a staff psychiatrist for Lindner Center of HOPE, Dr. Cummings specializes in the assessment and treatment of children through emerging adulthood and has vast experience working with individuals and families coping with severe and chronic psychiatric issues.

Panel Discussion from August 29, 2024

Cincinnati Police Sergeant Don Skalf has been a Cincinnati police officer for 25 years. Don is assigned to the Officer Wellness Unit. Don shared his story about his suicide attempt during the Montgomery Suicide Prevention panel discussion on August 29, 2024.

Montgomery Police Officer Rasheed Kassem has been in law enforcement for 18 years, nearly two years here in Montgomery. He is also a wellness coordinator with Hamilton County Police Association Peer Support.

Panel Discussion from August 29, 2024

The City of Montgomery began researching mental health issues as a result of a community survey health assessment conducted in 2019. The assessment identified mental health issues as a top concern. This was compounded by the effects of the pandemic. As a result, the Administration and City Council created a mental health initiative that provides educational presentations and resources to the community.

Today, we welcome Nancy Eigel-Miller, who lost her husband Jim to suicide in 2008. Nancy is the founder of 1N5. The organization’s mission is to prevent suicide by erasing the stigma of mental illness and promoting optimal mental wellness.

1N5
Panel Discussion from August 29, 2024

At 19 years old, Kevin Hines attempted to take his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a jump few people survive. Hines says he regretted his decision as soon as he jumped and prayed to survive. He hit the water at 75 mph and broke several bones, but a sea lion kept him afloat until rescuers arrived.

Today, he doesn’t take one day for granted.

Come hear his incredible story and how he’s saving others. The City of Montgomery is proud to welcome this world-renowned mental health activist, award-winning filmmaker, bestselling author, award-winning speaker, and suicide prevention champion on Monday, October 23 at 7:00 p.m. at Good Sheperd Church (8815 E. Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249).

In the United States alone, there are one million suicide attempts and over 40,000 deaths every year. Hines says his goal in sharing his story is to encourage people never to lose hope and to know that we are in charge of our own stories.