MRHC Expands Mental Health Services

child playing in sand table

Hollie SchechingerMRHC is continually working to address one of the primary health concerns affecting our rural communities, mental health. Hollie Schechinger, LMSW, provides counseling in Manning Monday-Thursday for patients 12 and older and is now accepting virtual telehealth appointments. Referrals are not needed. Schechinger is also now offering play therapy for children 5+. This is an intervention method to support children navigating traumatic experiences. As it can be challenging for children to articulate their emotions verbally, play therapy enables them to express themselves, process and communicate their traumatic experiences, and learn coping mechanisms through play.

“Play therapy is designed for children to work through trauma by telling the story in a way they know how, through play,” said Schechinger.

The focus will be on sand play therapy, utilizing a designated sand tray alongside an assortment of miniature figurines. This intervention method allows children to build boundaries, hopes, and safe places in their lives by making them in the sand tray. An array of toys, including those simulating courtroom scenarios or facilitating imaginative role-play through puppet shows and kitchen sets, will also be used. The objective is to empower children to address and prepare for potentially stressful situations. child playing in sand table

To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (712) 655-8100. If you need additional mental health information, education, or would like to discuss support, please contact your primary care physician at (712) 655-2072. For those 65 and older, call Senior Life Solutions at (712) 655-8262. Or call the Manning Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 and talk to a professional.

MRHC Welcomes Dina Irwin, New Mental Health Provider

Dina Irwin

Dina IrwinMRHC is continually working to address one of the primary health concerns affecting our rural communities, mental health. The MRHC Specialty Clinic is excited to welcome Dina Irwin, PMHNP-BC, who is now offering virtual appointments on the first and third Monday every month to diagnose and treat mental health disorders.

“People in rural areas have mental illnesses just like people living in cities,” said Irwin. “Unfortunately, they don’t always have access to the health care that they need. I am really looking forward to reaching out to those unable to find local services and help them right where they live.”

Certified for the entire lifespan, Irwin works with patients ages five years and up. She can treat patients suffering from anxiety, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorders, a variety of mood disorders, and more.

“I have had my own struggles with anxiety and depression, and I strive to pay that forward,” Irwin shared. “I also have experience with my own son, who is autistic. Mental health issues influence every part of our lives – our relationships, our contributions to our community, work productivity, and realizing our full potential. Optimal mental health means living your best life.”

Irwin received her ADN from Western Iowa Tech, her BSN from the University of Wisconsin, and her MSN from Allen College. She then attended Briar Cliff University for a postgraduate certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Call (712) 655-8100 to schedule an appointment with Irwin. Provider referrals are recommended.

If you need additional mental health information, education, or would like to discuss support, please contact your primary care physician at (712) 655-2072. For those 65 and older, call Senior Life Solutions at (712) 655-8262. Or call the Manning Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 and talk to a professional.