Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Epting.
Hi Andrea, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Have you ever doubted your purpose, contribution, or ability to make a positive impact despite your desire, efforts, and passion? Well, this is where I found myself in 2008. Unable to make an impact in the lives of those I served. I found myself working inside a “Mis-Managed” care system that was sicker than the individuals I was trying to treat. The “Revolving Door” of clients and the debilitating clinician turnover, led me to believe that the “almighty buck” was being prioritized over the people the system vowed to serve. I knew that I had a choice to make … to be part of the problem or part of the solution. That same year, in 2008 the concept for a revolutionary Solution was developed (by yours truly – inspired by the Holy Spirit) and named Heads-Up Guidance Services which would go on to be lovingly referred to as “HUGS” by the Savannah community and surrounding areas.
Our mission is simple yet profound. We are making exceptional behavioral health counseling accessible to all motivated individuals, and we train and utilize compassionate volunteer professionals to meet the communities’ counseling needs. We exist to ensure that no one seeking professional counseling will be denied services. HUGS’ professional clinical volunteers provide and expand their services to fill the critical behavioral health needs in this community. HUGS’ approach and response is unique, innovative, unduplicated, and a creative solution to the Mental Health crisis that plagues our neighbors, families, businesses, and the Low Country at large.
At HUGS we seek to be part of the long-term solution to mental health, and to break through the most common barriers to quality professional counseling. We choose to work outside of the managed care system, by training and utilizing volunteer professional counselors, clinical social workers, and certified addiction specialists to provide services at an 80% discounted rate (less than an in-network copay). Our approach allows for individuals and families to fund their own program with community support. We do not work with third party payors, insurance companies, or government entities, but are funded by our discounted services, influential supporters, and civic minded establishments. This allows HUGS’ clinicians to fully prioritize the clients and their treatment – at HUGS’ our professionals volunteer their services and work unencumbered for their clients.
As a psychotherapist, I believe in the importance of investing in the mental health of self and others. We all deserve to live in a community where Mental Health is a priority, and quality care is both accessible and encouraged. As responsible human beings, it is incumbent on us to invest in the emotional vitality and psychological well-being of our communities. We welcome collaborative partners in HUGS endeavor.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Funding is always a challenge for nonprofits.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Andrea M. Epting is the Founder and CEO of Heads-Up Guidance Services, Inc. (HUGS’ Nonprofit) – Licensed Professional Counselor, Masters Addiction Counselor, and Certified Sex Therapist. She also has a private practice, Resolve Strategies LLC, which addresses trauma-induced process addictions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.headsupsavannah.org
