Michelle Price’s Impact at the Recovery Center

Michelle Price

Michelle PriceMichelle Price’s journey in healthcare began with a choice at Western Iowa Tech, where she selected practical nursing over welding, setting her on a path that would span over two decades and profoundly impact many lives.

“When I decided to go to college, there were two options locally, and I believe it was God who made my decision to become a nurse,” reflected Michelle, LPN.

Michelle began her nursing career by dedicating 19 years to caring for others through home health and working at the Manilla Manor. Her transition to the Recovery Center at MRHC in 2019 marked a significant pivot, driven by a desire for change and a deep-seated sense of calling.

“The reason I began working at the Recovery Center is because I had family members who dealt with alcoholism and addiction,” Michelle shared. “In 2016, I began attending the ‘source of recovery’ program after being encouraged by Esta Denton. I began to familiarize myself with the recovery community and after attending several functions with friends I saw the growth in clients’ eyes.”

Now as a nurse at the Manning Recovery Center (MRC), Michelle directly aids those recovering from addiction, witnessing transformative changes in their lives.

“I am so grateful that I am a part of the MRHC family and the recovery community,” shared Michelle. “My favorite part of my job is when I see clients come in, and they are usually broken inside, many without support, and with the help of all staff at MRC, the clients begin to grow, and I get to see the light come back into their lives.”

As September marks National Recovery Month, an annual observance to promote recovery practices; the recovery community; and the dedication of service providers; the Recovery Center takes pride in individuals like Michelle who work with passion and determination to help addicts. Michelle’s deep commitment to patient recovery resonates with her colleagues, who view her as an integral part of the Recovery Center.

MRC Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC, praises Michelle’s contributions saying, “Michelle is the kind, caring, and patient nurse we need here in the Recovery Center. It takes certain people to be able to work in this setting and she thrives here. She goes above and beyond for patients when they are here and with follow-up after. Patients continue to point out how much she cares and is available for them.”

In addition to a rewarding career where she can make a difference, Michelle values the team environment and support she receives from Manning Regional and MRC. She is also motivated by the drive and dedication of the leadership team.

“MRHC treats everyone like family, and I don’t feel like a number,” Michelle shared. “We are all encouraged to voice our concerns, and I feel heard. Taya’s drive to help the people in the community and those who struggle with substance abuse can be seen and felt by all.”

The choice to work in a rural setting like Manning’s has been another important factor for Michelle. She highlights the unique benefits of providing addiction services in a less populated area, where community bonds are strong, and the recovery community is notably supportive.

“Rural health care has always been a concern, so offering addiction services in a rural area is very important,” Michelle emphasized. “One of the many benefits of living in a small community is that people care. The recovery community in Manning is remarkable. I have had many clients tell me, ‘ALL of the staff treat me like I am worth something’ and ‘I’ve never been in a place that cares so much about me as a person’. I look forward to an expansion and pray for that daily because if we can make our 16 clients feel like they are important and give them hope I’d like to see MRC do that for another 16.”

If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, click here or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Recovery Center Services

The Recovery Center is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. Services include detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment, and consultations or evaluations. The center’s trusted experts provide individuals with the right medical care, behavioral therapy, and social support to enable a healthy lifestyle free from drugs and alcohol. If you or someone you care about has problems with substance abuse, call (712) 655-2300. For more information, visit

Influential Visits Pave the Way for Behavioral Health Initiatives in Rural Iowa

Director Garcia visit

In a significant development for Iowa, influential lawmakers are turning their attention to the critical needs of behavioral health across Iowa, particularly in rural areas where access to comprehensive services and reimbursements remain a challenge. Recent visits from prominent figures underscore a renewed commitment to addressing the root causes of substance abuse and promoting mental health support in communities throughout the state.

Director Garcia visitOn National Rural Health Day (November 16th), Iowa Health and Human Services Director, Kelly Garcia, and State Epidemiologist, Dr. Robert Kruse, visited MRHC and the Recovery Center. Their presence underscored the critical need for integrated behavioral health services, with a focus on mental health and substance abuse. Engaging with healthcare professionals, community leaders, and the hospital’s board and senior leadership team, Director Garcia and Dr. Kruse discussed collaborative solutions to improve statewide healthcare and to also address the unique needs of rural communities.

During her visit to Manning on September 12th, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird highlighted the importance of tailoring initiatives to the unique challenges faced by these areas stating, “Rural communities often encounter barriers in accessing quality healthcare and addiction treatment services. The opioid settlement funds are one-time funds that could provide an opportunity to bridge those gaps and make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by opioid addiction in our rural communities.” Brenna Bird

Earlier this year, agreements were reached with manufacturers, distributors, and pharmacies to provide nearly $50 billion in payments for state and local governments across the nation. Funding was distributed to each state, and in Iowa a portion of those funds were distributed to each county for the county supervisors to disperse locally. The rest of the funds are currently held at the state level with the anticipation that lawmakers will determine appropriations in the next legislative session.

Charles GrassleySenator Charles Grassley as well as Republican presidential candidate and North Dakota Governor, Doug Burgum, accompanied by his wife, Kathryn, also visited MRHC earlier this fall to gain a better understanding of the healthcare needs affecting rural areas and the unique position of MRHC and the Recovery Center.

These visits provided lawmakers with a firsthand look at the Recovery Center’s efforts to support residential and outpatient recovering addicts. MRHC, serving as a model for rural healthcare services, became a platform for discussions on comprehensive strategies to address behavioral health challenges, reimbursements, and access to care in rural Iowa.Doug Bergum

Director Garcia emphasized the importance of addressing behavioral health needs, stating, “By understanding the challenges faced by the communities across our state, utilizing research-based methodologies, and taking a comprehensive approach to address the most critical health needs, we can develop targeted and effective strategies to improve our overall health outcomes.”

These visits reflect a broader, bipartisan commitment to address rural healthcare challenges in a unified and strategic way. This holistic approach starts with a grassroots understanding of the challeng es affecting rural hospitals accompanied by discussions to adjust policies at the state and federal levels. These collaborations reflect an aligned dedication to build healthier and more resilient commun ities across the state.

As Iowa takes a significant stride forward in the battle against opioid addiction, the opioid settlements stand as a beacon of hope for rural communities. MRHC Administration and the leadership of the Recovery Center are taking this opportunity to educate local county supervisors as well as statewide leaders to better understand the services that already exist, their vision for addressing this epidemic, and the potential for MRHC and the Recovery Center to serve even more clients and their families.

Dalton Lytle Finds Hope In Recovery and Joy in Helping Others

Recovery Counselor, Dalton Lytle, CADC

“We save lives here and I’m grateful to be part of that,” shared Dalton Lytle, Recovery Counselor who works at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC). “Manning Recovery Center has changed my life for the better. I am proud to be an employee here and represent what recovery can do for someone.”

Lytle attended college for a short time before beginning his career in bridge construction for eight years. He never intended to return to college, let alone work in an office as an addiction counselor, but after personally receiving treatment at the Recovery Center, he moved to Manning and took a job opportunity as a part-time tech at MRHC. Lytle shares how his personal experience with addiction and recovery helps him relate to his clients on a personal level.

Recovery Counselor, Dalton Lytle, CADC“After working at the Recovery Center for a while it was clear to me that this is what I want to do for a living – help suffering addicts find hope in recovery,” explained Lytle. “Going through treatment here myself, I know the pain and struggles that our clients are going through. Being able to relate and help them through it is very rewarding and I want to continue doing that.”

Lytle is very passionate about his career at MRHC because he has personally reaped the benefits from the Recovery Center’s treatment and urges other addicts to seek help. “The reason I love my job is because I get to help people save their lives,” stated Lytle. “I went through treatment here in 2019. My life was a complete disaster and I had very little hope that things could get better. The Recovery Center showed me that there is hope and gave me the tools to save my life. I could not have done it without the Recovery Center. Treatment was such an eye-opening experience for me. I want to continue helping those who suffer addictions find the same hope that I was given. It’s pretty amazing to see someone come into treatment feeling hopeless and broken, and then watch them transform into a new person full of joy and hope,” Lytle explained.

The saying ‘Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life,’ rings true for Lytle. “I like working at the Recovery Center because when I get up in the morning, I am excited to go to work. I had never had that feeling before, so it is special,” exclaimed Lytle. He boasts that the best thing about working at MRHC is the easy-going and supportive environment. “It makes work enjoyable and that’s a pretty cool thing.”

“My role at the Recovery Center continues to expand the longer I work here,” explained Lytle. When Lytle was a counselor tech, he was responsible for taking clients to outside meetings and facilitating group sessions, along with various other client needs. “I have recently been promoted to counselor and my role here has expanded. I now get to help our clients more than before by having my own clients that I work with on an individual basis. When it comes down to it, I am here to provide guidance and support for our clients so that they can start a new life in recovery,” stated Lytle.

The biggest issue Lytle wants to bring to light is that addiction happens everywhere, including rural areas. “The Manning Recovery Center is unique. There is something special about this place. Many have said that this is the best treatment center in the state and other surrounding states,” explained Lytle. Although the Recovery Center at MRHC may be rural, Lytle believes that to be an advantage. “I think we stand out because we care about our clients. The groups are smaller here compared to other treatment centers and that makes for a more personal experience. I think we all do a great job making them feel at home and that provides the best environment for healthy growth.”

To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Supporting a Loved One’s Road to Recovery from Addiction

taya vonnahme

For concerned friends and family of those struggling with addiction, getting the help their loved one needs can be a three-fold challenge: knowing where their role starts and stops in an addict’s recovery journey, supporting them with a mindset that leads to lasting recovery, and helping them find treatment that is a good fit.

taya vonnahme“The fundamental thing to understand is they have to come to their own decision about sobriety. You can’t make it for them,” advises Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “If you want to influence them to seek help, talk to them clearly and calmly about your concerns. Make repeat offers to help find information about rehabilitation programs. Don’t nag and try to force them; gentle encouragement can go a long way.”

Vonnahme also points out that those supporting someone struggling with addiction need to take care of their own mental and physical health. Setting personal boundaries and knowing when it’s time to take a step back is necessary in getting them the help they need to fight this disease. If your health or safety are suffering because of their actions, cutting ties completely may be the rock bottom a loved one needs to get help.

Support for Lasting Recovery

Individuals who have watched loved ones suffer from addiction share that one of the most important things to do as a support system is help the addict know they are not alone or being judged. We know addiction is a disease and not a choice.

Showing empathy towards the addict as well as what got them to this point is also crucial. Past abuse or trauma, loss of identity due to retirement or a job loss, stress from family circumstances, and feelings of letting people down are all common examples of things that can push someone over the edge into the downward spiral of addiction.

“It’s important for people to get their stories out there and have them be heard,” notes Angela*, who has lost loved ones to addiction. “That’s the whole point of this process. They need to speak their truth, and they need to get their trauma and experiences out there and feel safe doing so. There’s just a lot of fear for addicts that there’s going to be judgement.”

The Right Fit

Finding support in community is one side of the coin for lasting recovery; finding proper treatment is the other. And that’s where options like MRHC’s Recovery Center come in.

“Many clients who come into the Recovery Center at MRHC start out thinking that they’re in this alone,” says an MRHC Recovery Center counselor. “They might not have the best family support or the best friends, some may have even led them down this path in the first place. At the Recovery Center, we like to reinforce that we’re all in this together and that every single person here has experienced an addiction in one way or another. All our counselors have had experience with addiction, whether it was our own personal addiction or an immediate family member’s. Clients find themselves able to truly open up and feel safe talking about it because we’ve all been there. We know how to get them through it.”

Uniquely located inside a hospital, MRHC’s recovery center bases their treatment, care, and support around the principle that there is no such thing as a “one size fits all” approach when it comes to recovery. Licensed counselors build relationships with each client to better understand who they are and where they are coming from to determine what strategies will best help them reach their drug or alcohol-free goals.

If you or a loved one needs help, contact the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

*This individual’s name has been changed for privacy.

Mental Health Resources at MRHC

mental health services

“Based on the outcomes of our latest Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), mental health is one of the main concerns of our rural communities,” shared MRHC Education Coordinator, Julie Hodne, RN. “So, we are prioritizing mental health support, increasing available mental health resources, and sharing insight to better help people of all ages.”

Hollie Schechinger, a counselor at the Recovery Center at MRHC will be adding to her responsibilities in the coming weeks to serve as a full-time mental health counselor. Schechinger will begin seeing patients ages 12 and older beginning in June.

Mental health continues to affect many people regardless of their age, gender, medical history, life status, etc. and MRHC recognizes that a “one size fits all” approach to treatment does not work. MRHC strives to offer a variety of mental health services for different ages and needs.

According to the CDC, one in five people, including children, will experience a mental illness at some point in their life. With that in mind, it is important to be aware of common mental health warning signs.

Common Warning Signs in Children
  • Ongoing behavior problems at school, home, or daycare
  • Constant movement or hyperactivity
  • Frequent and unexplainable temper tantrums, outbursts, or explosive emotional reactions
  • Unusual fears/worries, thoughts, beliefs, feelings, or behaviors
  • Having a hard time getting involved with age appropriate activities
  • Difficulty concentrating, paying attention, or being organized for their age level
  • Lack of interest in friends and avoiding or isolating from friends and family
  • Negative moods for long periods of time
  • Obsession on certain thoughts, activities, or actions
  • Lack of energy even when well rested
  • Difficulty with sleeping
  • Frequent physical complaints with no obvious cause
  • Sad or hopeless feeling with no reason
  • Self-harm or talk of self-injury or suicide
  • Persistent nightmares or visual or audio hallucinations
  • Eating problems (too little or too much)
  • Violence towards others, animals, or property
  • Refusing to go to school and ongoing decline in school performance
  • Risky or dangerous behaviors like sexually acting out, recklessness, or running away

“Depending on the severity of their behaviors, we recommend that parents call to schedule a mental health evaluation with a mental health provider,” said Schechinger, LMSW. “If a child is making comments of self-harm or suicide, take them to the nearest emergency room.”

If you notice some of these warning signs, the CDC recommends several strategies for helping children cope with mental health issues. Talk to them about and validate their feelings of stress or sadness, reassure their safety, let them know it is okay to feel upset, be a good role model, spend time together, and provide professional support if needed. It is also important to limit their social media exposure, provide fun and relaxing activities, and maintain regular routines.

While symptoms can be similar to children’s, warning signs in adults often involve:

  • Decrease in enjoyment from and isolating from friends and family
  • Significant decrease in school or work performance or resisting to attend
  • Memory, attention, and concentration problems
  • Large changes in energy levels, eating, and sleeping patterns
  • Physical symptoms (headaches, stomachaches, backaches)
  • Feeling hopeless, sad, anxious, or crying often
  • Frequent aggression, disobedience, or lashing out verbally
  • Neglect of personal hygiene
  • Substance abuse
  • Dangerous or illegal thrill-seeking behavior
  • Being overly suspicious of others
  • Visual or auditory hallucinations

“Some effective ways to help cope with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders include going for a walk, reading a book, calling a friend, taking a nap, playing with animals, exercising, spending time with family or friends, taking a shower, watching a favorite movie or TV show, eating a snack, and going out to eat with friends or family,” Schechinger recommended.

Schechinger goes on to advise that if these strategies are not helping, it’s important to see a mental health provider for an evaluation and to follow their recommendations for treatment.

“MRHC provides outpatient mental health support through a therapist, medication management, and substance abuse addiction services through the Recovery Center if needed,” Schechinger shared.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health

Mental illness and addiction can often go together. Individuals with mental health disorders are statistically proven to be at high risk for addiction and those struggling with addiction have a high risk for mental health disorders, especially depression and anxiety.

“Rarely do we treat someone who has an addiction that does not have at least one mental health diagnosis as well,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “These two iare very different diagnoses and have different treatments but are still associated with each other in various ways.”

Mental issues are sometimes signs of substance abuse as well. Psychological warning signs of drug abuse that can be seen as mental health issues are things such as changes in personality or attitude; sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts; and appearing fearful, anxious, or paranoid for no reason.

“Here at the Recovery Center, we have mental health therapists who come once a week to meet with clients. In addition to that, when I see clients, I help them address many of these issues from a medical standpoint,” Vonnahme said. “This is an area we are working to expand in the near future.”

Mental Health in Aging Individuals

Elderly individuals can also suffer from the effects of mental illness. Things such as more physical complaints, frequent ER visits, sleeping problems, low energy, cognitive issues, weight loss or gain, and isolation from family and friends can all result from an individual dealing with a mental health issue.

“Oftentimes, people attribute these changes as part of the aging process, but that’s not always necessarily the cause,” said Senior Life Solutions Program Director, Janet Brus, RN.

If you notice these things in a loved one, it is important to be aware of other red flags that may point to a mental health issue.

  • Change in physical status – not eating, losing, or gaining weight, or eating junk food
  • Increased irritability when normally very pleasant and easy going
  • Previously independent with daily tasks and now relies on someone to get groceries, pay bills, shower, etc.
  • Misplacing things
  • Talking about feeling lonely and isolated
  • An increase or start in using alcohol or other substances
  • Poor medication compliance

For elderly individuals over the age of 65 who are struggling with depression or anxiety, the Senior Life Solutions program at MRHC offers group counseling sessions that have seen great success.

“People often find a common ground with each other as they have all been through some of the same life experiences and enjoy the support from each other,” shared Brus. “It also makes them get up, leave their home, and gives them a purpose. We all need a purpose – something to get up and do and look forward to each day. Without purpose, one would just stay in bed and no longer participate in life.”

Family members, physicians, or other health professionals can refer individuals to the Senior Life Solutions program. For those interested in learning more or signing up, call 712-655-8262.

If you need additional mental health information, education, or would like to discuss support, please schedule an appointment with your primary care physician by calling (712) 655-8100 to discuss treatment options. For those 65 and older, call Senior Life Solutions at (712) 655-8262. Or call the Manning Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

Bolin Uses Personal Experience to Make a Difference at Recovery Center

Emmalee Bolin

Emmalee BolinEmmalee Bolin works as a counselor at the Recovery Center at MRHC and shares that her personal experience with addiction and recovery is what inspires her to help others.

“I actually attended the Manning Recovery Center in 2014,” said Bolin, LBSW, CADC. “I gained so much knowledge and understanding through my own experiences as an addict that I wanted a career where I could help others who also struggle.”

Following her own journey to recovery, Bolin worked as a Parent Partner with the DHS Mentor Program for three years before becoming the coordinator. In 2017, she received her associate degree from DMACC and went on to Briar Cliff for her bachelor’s degree in social work. After moving to Templeton in 2020, she accepted a position at the MRHC Recovery Center, saying, “I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work where it all started.”

“Emmalee is a hard worker, she is always willing to jump in and cover when something needs to be done, and she is the first to volunteer to learn something new or obtain an additional license,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “You always know when Emmalee is around because we can hear her laugh throughout the Recovery Center. She is a wonderful person to have here!”

Bolin works as a counselor at the Recovery Center, a role that consists of leading group therapy sessions and following up with her case load of inpatient and outpatient clients.

“We work on the root causes that brought them to using drugs and alcohol,” explained Bolin. “I get to connect with clients and give them a sense of hope that they can get and stay clean and sober too. If I can make an impact on one person and help others to consider there is a better way of life than living in active addiction, then all my effort is worth it. Coming from experience, I want to help people who are going through addiction and show them a new way. I am tangible evidence that recovery is possible.”

In addition to utilizing her personal experience with addiction to help Recovery Center clients, Bolin points out that the support from others also makes a big impact.

“We have such a good recovery community here that embraces the clients and really cares about them,” said Bolin. “Our rural community, although small, has welcoming, thriving, and active recovery members. We have speakers from the area and past clients who come to share their experience, strength, and hopes to current clients. If it wasn’t for the recovery community in the Manning area, I don’t think we would be such a highly regarded facility.”

Bolin also has a great support system at the Recovery Center to help her do her job to the best of her ability. “I truly feel like we have a good team atmosphere,” said Bolin. “We all communicate well and when something happens or a coworker is out, we take charge of what needs to be done for our clients. I feel like my coworkers are my family.”

While it is important for Bolin to work in a positive team environment, she also appreciates the way the recovery process is structured as well as how clients are treated in Manning.

“I feel like we truly treat clients with respect. The Recovery Center staff treats clients as human beings who have an illness, not as criminals,” Bolin said. “We provide them with outlets like recreation and outside 12-step meetings. Although our clients may have a past, we truly believe through staying clean and sober they can become better people in society.”

While Bolin’s goal for all her clients is to help them achieve lasting sobriety and leave the Recovery Center with the knowledge and tools to live healthy, drug-free lives, she has no intention of leaving any time soon and is ambitious about the future of her career.

“My goal is to eventually get my masters in social work,” Bolin shared. “I am a good leader and have always been in management throughout my years of employment. I would love to be the director of the Recovery Center one day.”To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Recovery Center Services

The Recovery Center is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. Services include detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and consultations or evaluations. Recovery Center staff have adapted treatments to meet addiction issues from alcoholism to meth to the abuse of prescription painkillers. If you or someone you care about has problems with substance abuse, call (712) 655-2300. For more information, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com

Recovery Center Works to Prevent Overdose Deaths

overdose

In 2020, 91,799 people died from a drug overdose in the United States, increasing by 31% from the year prior, according to the CDC. And nearly 75% of those deaths involved opioids, making August 31st, Overdose Awareness Day, more important than ever.

“Overdose is something everyone should be aware of,” shared Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, tCADC. “Not only is overdose a concern in the addiction world but also in general practice. We see overdoses all the time for various reasons – alcohol, opiates, and drug related. Some are unintentional from prescription pain medications that were accidentally taken incorrectly.”

The Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center is dedicated to raising awareness of drug overdose and helping prevent future deaths caused by an overdose.

“Everyone should educate themselves on the signs of a possible overdose and know what to do if it is suspected,” Vonnahme recommended.

Typical signs of an overdose can include one or several of the following:

  • Unconsciousness
  • Seizure
  • Severe headache
  • Chest pain
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Extremely paranoid, agitated, and/or confused
  • Snoring or gurgling

Seek emergency help by calling 911 if someone is exhibiting these symptoms. Prior to emergency personnel arriving, follow these steps:

  • Administer *Naloxone if available
  • Support breathing by ensuring their airway is clear and giving breaths
  • Monitor their response
  • Do not forcefully try to awake them
  • Don’t try to make them vomit

When help arrives, it is vital to provide as much information as possible about the overdose. Information such as what type of drug and how much was taken and how long ago it was taken can help save a life.

“One of the best things I have seen that can assist someone who has overdosed is Naloxone,” Vonnahme said. “It saves lives every day and anyone can learn how to use it. It is also available to anyone who may need it no matter the reason. If you know someone who uses any type of opiate, prescription, or recreational drug they should know about this and learn how to use it.”

*Naloxone is a non-addictive, life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. Given as a nasal spray, auto-injector, or injectable, naloxone can be purchased from most pharmacies without a prescription. If you or someone you know is at increased risk for opioid overdose, you should carry naloxone and keep it at home. People who are taking high-dose opioid medications (>50 morphine milligram equivalents per day) prescribed by a doctor and people who use opioids and benzodiazepines together should also carry naloxone, according to the CDC.

Opioid Education

To help educate about the dangers of substance abuse, MRHC will be hosting a variety of trainings in partnership with New Opportunities of Carroll in the upcoming weeks. The first training will be held on Monday, August 29th from 6-7pm in MRHC Conference Room 1. The first half hour will teach about common misused drugs, how drugs impact the body and brain, and the risk factors of a substance use disorder. The second half hour will focus on the “Stigma Associated with Substance Use Disorder”, in which participants will learn what stigma is, the consequences of stigma, and what you can do to change stigma.

The next training will take place on Monday, September 26th from 6-7pm. It will teach what an opioid is, types of opioids (licit and illicit), consequences of opioid misuse, and what resources are available to address opioid misuse in your community. Participants will also learn about the effects of opioid and stimulant polysubstance use on individuals, the intentional and unintentional reasons for polysubstance use, and the community level strategies to reduce the risks associated with polysubstance use.

Recovery Center Services

If you or someone you care about has problems with substance abuse, help is available. The sooner a person can get help, the better the long-term chance for recovery. If you feel that you need help or guidance, contact the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

The Recovery Center is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. Services include detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and consultations or evaluations. Recovery Center staff have adapted treatments to meet addiction issues, from alcoholism to meth to the abuse of prescription painkillers. For four decades, staff have helped clients take their first step toward healthy, drug and alcohol-free lifestyles. For more information, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com.

The Past, Present, and Future of the Recovery Center

Recovery Center 40th

The Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center has been providing substance abuse recovery services in western Iowa for 40 years. To celebrate, all friends of recovery are invited to join The Recovery Center staff on August 6, 2022, at the Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park Konferenz Center from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. This free event will include a luncheon, welcome from the Recovery Center Director, testimonials of recovery, and networking among all in attendance.

Before the Recovery Center celebrates this milestone with the community, we wanted to reflect on the center’s history to see how far it has come, share what the Recovery Center is like now, and see what is in store for the future of substance abuse services in Manning.

The SAT Unit

In 1982, the Substance Abuse Treatment Unit, known as the SAT Unit, was established at Manning General Hospital after it became evident that substance abuse recovery services would fill an unmet need in the area. Since state funding was not an option, Health Resources, Inc. of Chattanooga, Tennessee worked with Manning General Hospital to establish the SAT Unit and an agreement was made for Health Resources to develop and manage the SAT Unit. The Iowa Department of Health issued the center a Certificate of Need, and clients were first accepted for residential treatment on January 17, 1983.

“The SAT Unit was the only hospital-based program fully functional with residential, outpatient, and support groups in Iowa at that time,” shared Denny Garvis, the Recovery Center director from 1990-2007. “We were also the first hospital-based program in Iowa to get a three-year licensure and 100% in licensure review. And those achievements had nothing to do with me, it was all the staff. Staff is key, and I had a tremendous team,” Garvis reflected.

Dr. Myer & Dr. McNerney were the beginning medical directors for the 12-bed SAT Unit. They initially started off with five staff members and provided residential and outpatient services. They also provided dual diagnosis/co-occurring disorder mental health services with Dr. Jerry Catron – treatment services that were groundbreaking at that time. The center was also able to host DMACC nursing students for 15 years through a DMACC nursing professor, Pam Garvis, so they could get a background in substance abuse and addictions, which was unheard of at the time. These experiences are still rarely offered in nursing education programs.

The Recovery Center eventually established outreach EAP and SAP programs in Atlantic, Carroll, Ida Grove, and Denison. When it came to outpatient services, Medicaid played a big role since they would only pay for outpatient services if the treatment center was within the hospital.

Eventually, many programs around the state started switching to strictly outpatient treatment based on low census, and the SAT Unit soon faced the same crisis. The numbers were very low for both kinds of treatment and at the time, the MRHC hospital board was questioning whether to keep the SAT Unit doors open.

“My philosophy was that if we do the right thing, we’ll get patients and that will keep the doors open. I argued that if we could sustain one year of operating in the red, we could survive, and the board went along with it,” Garvis said. “As other similar programs went to just outpatient, we remained residential, and thankfully it worked because a year and a half later our numbers started to improve. Bill Ohde was a strong hospital board supporter for us to get the one-year probationary program, and without his input & support, I don’t think the Recovery Center would be here today.”

The SAT Unit’s name was later changed to “Manning Family Recovery Center” to draw attention to the expansive family support program.

“The name SAT was always cold to me,” Garvis explained. “When we decided to change the name, we had a contest for the staff and that’s how we came up with Manning Family Recovery Center. It best identified what we did because the family component is key to recovery.”

After 33 years in a historic hospital on Main Street in Manning, the Center moved to its present location at 1550 6th Street in 2014 when Manning Regional Healthcare Center moved. The new space allowed for more natural light in patient rooms and space for indoor and outdoor recreation. Finally, to simplify outreach efforts, the center shortened its name to the Recovery Center in 2018.

As Garvis reflected on how the Recovery Center operated in the 80s, 90’s and 2000’s, he shared a few key takeaways:

“We are very proud of what has happened here over the years, but if there was anything in treatment that we could have improved on back then, it would have been working harder to help clients understand that you can still have fun and not drink and use. We always struggled with that,” Garvis said. “We tried to have as many social functions as we could to introduce people to the ‘real world.’ Our intent was to help them understand that 90% of the population drinks and uses, and that’s the world they’re going to function in when they leave treatment.”

While many things have changed and evolved within the Recovery Center, one thing that has unfortunately not changed is the stigma associated with substance abuse.

“To say that low income or minorities are the ones that need treatment is false,” Garvis said. “We have treated politicians, several mayors, doctors, lots of nurses, lawyers, administrators, ministers, priests, and paramedics,” – the number one profession of individuals the center currently treats.

Garvis went on to explain how the stigma and embarrassment that goes with addiction can deter people from seeking treatment services. He also points out the advantages of receiving treatment services at The Recovery Center in Manning.

“The credit to this place is that it is very private and secluded. Once clients get here, they understand that nothing is going to leave here without their approval,” Garvis shared.

The Recovery Center Now

The Recovery Center’s staff now consists of 11 full-time staff and five as-needed staff. The multi-disciplinary team includes the medical director, an administrative assistant, 24-hour nursing services, four licensed substance abuse counselors, two full-time and four part-time counselor techs, a nurse care coordinator, family therapist, licensed clinical coordinator, psychologist, and a director. The center also has a 16-bed capacity but can overflow into the hospital if needed. There are two people to a room and each room has their own bathroom and shower.

“We have never been empty, and we always have a significant waitlist. The average wait time right now is four weeks,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, tCADC. “But if someone were to walk in right now, we’d find a bed for them. We’ll overflow as much as we have to. I won’t turn anyone away.”

Other than having additional space if needed, another main factor that differentiates Manning’s treatment program from others in Iowa is the fact that the Recovery Center is a department within MRHC, a critical access hospital.

“Being connected to the hospital allows us to easily access all possible modalities of care from lab, radiology, nursing, specialty clinic services, and more,” shared Vonnahme.

It also allows the Recovery Center to take patients who have extenuating medical backgrounds and several who have significant medical issues as they can be seen by specialty providers at MRHC during their stay.

The co-ed chemical dependency facility offers services such as detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and consultations or evaluations.

“Our services continue to change and grow,” shared Vonnahme. “Currently, we provide treatment at four levels of care from detox, residential, and three options of outpatient treatment. Everyone can benefit from one of the types of services and most clients follow a steppingstone path and will work their way down through their specific treatment plan.”

The Recovery Center bases treatment plans on evidence-based practices, incorporating therapies and strategies proven to have successful recovery outcomes for previous addicts. The 12-step framework and other therapies and services are utilized to facilitate the recovery process. The licensed counselors follow best practices by individualizing each treatment plan, so they are specific to each client’s needs and goals.

“For example, outpatient services can be varied based on how many hours a week someone needs,” explained Vonnahme. “We mostly focus on intensive and extended outpatient treatment each week. These levels are usually completed by someone after they finish a residential stay, but it does not have to be that way. There are outpatient clients who never complete residential treatment and that is sufficient for them.”

Recovery Center staff have adapted treatments to meet the most pressing or newly emergent addiction issues, from alcoholism to the influx of meth to the abuse of prescription painkillers. The main goal for clients is to take their first step toward healthy, drug and alcohol-free lifestyles.

The Future of the Recovery Center

As the Recovery Center continues to grow and evolve, they have big goals for the future of recovery services.

“Our team continues to grow in many ways. We have started offering problem gambling and prime for life services (Iowa OWI course) and are working to add additional services, but it takes time,” Vonnahme said. “I hope to be able to dedicate much-needed time to a prevention program. This work is greatly needed, and we are striving to bring it back.”

While it is a top priority to expand prevention and outpatient services, they also want to emphasize the importance of mental health education.

“There are not enough services out there for mental health or addiction so we are trying to do the best we can in the short amount of time we have with the people that come in for treatment,” Vonnahme said.

Fortunately, the Recovery Center has an overwhelming amount of support and assistance within the hospital. MRHC administration and the board of directors recognize that that the Recovery Center is a key service line and part of the long-term vision and strategy of MRHC.

“I have a very good administration backing me who trusts and helps me,” Vonnahme shared. “That makes a huge difference being able to do this job because my administration team is pretty understanding of some of the issues with insurance and realizing that we’re doing the best we can with what we’ve got. They’re supportive when I want to take a risk and will let me try new things.”

In addition to a supportive administration, board of directors, and a determined Recovery Center staff, the Manning community is also a strong advocate for the center.

“We are fortunate for the support we get and always have as well as the community we’re in,” Vonnahme shared. “I’m very lucky with the staff, volunteers and support we have. The only reason I can do this job is because of the team, not only my staff in the Recovery Center, but hospital wide with billing and financial, administration, and others. It’s amazing how many people it takes to keep something like this afloat and the communication and skills you have to bring together.”

To learn more about substance abuse services at the Recovery Center and celebrate the 40th anniversary, RSVP to the August 6th event by calling (712) 655-2300. For more information about the Recovery Center, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com.

What is Considered Alcohol Abuse?

Brad Madsen

By Bradley Madsen, Recovery Clinical Coordinator  

Summer is here and that means more people are out socializing and enjoying a beverage or two. However, have you ever wondered what constitutes drinking too much? Alcohol abuse is defined as “the habitual misuse of alcohol”, meaning that a person consumes excessive amounts of alcohol.

Here is a pop quiz. For each question you answer “yes,” give yourself a point.

1. Have you ever set out to have ‘a quick drink or two’ but ended up having more drinks than you intended? Or did you stay at the bar drinking past the time you said you’d be home for dinner?
2. Have you ever thought “I really want/need to cut down on my drinking”, but struggled to do so?
3. Have you ever spent more time drinking alcohol or recovering from drinking than you would like?
4. Do you ever crave or have a strong desire to have a drink?
5. Have you missed major role obligations (work, school, or home) more than once because you were impaired or busy drinking?
6. Do you continue to use alcohol despite persistent or recurrent social (or interpersonal) problems caused or made worse by drinking alcohol?
7. Have you continued to drink despite knowing you have persistent, or recurrent mental or physical health problems caused or made worse by alcohol use?
8. Have you given up or reduced social, occupational, or recreational activities because of alcohol use?
9. Have you used alcohol when it was dangerous to do so? (Drinking and driving or drinking despite liver problems).
10. Have you noticed that you have developed a tolerance to alcohol? (It takes more alcohol to feel buzzed than it did in the past. Or you notice you can drink more now without feeling as impaired as you might have in the past).
11. Do you ever feel ill when you don’t drink for a couple of days?

These questions represent the diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorders as defined by the DSM-5 (Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition)

Scoring:
2-3 “yes” answers – You may have a mild alcohol use disorder.
4-5 “yes” answers – You likely have a moderate alcohol use disorder.
6+ “yes” answers – You likely have a severe alcohol use disorder.

If you (or someone you know) meet the criteria for an alcohol use disorder, you aren’t alone. According to the NIH, one in eight Americans meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder. Does this mean you are an ‘alcoholic’? Not necessarily, but it does mean that you are putting yourself at risk to develop alcoholism.

If you or someone you care about has problems with alcohol (or other substances), help is available locally. The sooner a person can get help, the better the long-term chance for recovery. Alcoholism is a disease, not a moral failing, a choice, or weakness. If you feel that you need help or guidance, reach out to your physician, or contact the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

The Recovery Center at MRHC is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. Services include detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and consultations or evaluations. Recovery Center staff have adapted treatments to meet the most pressing or newly emergent addiction issues, from alcoholism to the influx of meth to the abuse of prescription painkillers. For nearly four decades, staff have consistently helped clients take their first step toward healthy, drug and alcohol-free lifestyles.

For more information about the Recovery Center in Manning, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com.

Manning Recovery Center Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Recovery Center 40th Celebration

The Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center is celebrating 40 years of providing substance abuse recovery services in western Iowa.

“This is an incredible milestone for our facility and the many clients we have served throughout the years,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, tCADC.

To celebrate, all friends of recovery are invited to join The Recovery Center staff on August 6, 2022, at the Manning Hausbarn-Heritage Park Konferenz Center from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. This free event will include a luncheon, welcome from the Recovery Center Director, testimonials of recovery, and networking among all in attendance.

“The Recovery Center has had such an impact on not only the clients, but also their friends, family, and communities. We want to celebrate that success, continue to be advocates for substance abuse, spread awareness that treatment is available in Manning, and share how it has had a lifechanging impact on so many people,” said Vonnahme.

To RSVP to the 40th Anniversary Celebration, call (712) 655-2300.

Recovery Center History

The Manning General Hospital Substance Abuse Treatment Unit (SAT Unit) opened in December 1982 after a study of the area found that substance abuse treatment services were needed. The Iowa Department of Health issued the Center a Certificate of Need, and clients were first accepted for residential treatment on January 17, 1983. The facility has grown and increased its services since.

When the hospital moved to its current location in 2014, the Recovery Center moved as well. The new space allowed for more natural light in patient rooms and space for indoor and outdoor recreation. Today the Recovery Center provides services including residential and outpatient treatment, detoxification, and education.

Initially there were only five staff members, however the Recovery Center’s staff now consists of a multi-disciplinary team including a medical director, an administrative assistant, 24-hour nursing services, four licensed substance abuse counselors, two full-time and four part-time counselor techs, a nurse care coordinator, family therapist, licensed clinical coordinator, psychologist, and a director.

To learn more about Recovery Center services, call (712) 655-2300.

The Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center is a 16-bed, co-ed chemical dependency facility located in Manning. The Recovery Center has trusted experts on staff who can provide individuals the right medical care, behavioral therapy, and social support to enable a healthy lifestyle free from drugs and alcohol. For more information about the Recovery Center, visit www.manningrecoverycenter.com.