Local mental health providers are stepping up to support the community after Tuesday's events at Pauls Valley High School.
Lighthouse Behavioral Wellness staff have made themselves more available for walk-in clients.
“Anyone having distressing emotions around this event can come on in,” said Cole Gallup, Director of Outpatient Services at the Pauls Valley Clinic. “We have top-trained, top-tier staff. We are trained in the most effective trauma recovery models.”
Lighthouse Behavioral Wellness Centers provide holistic mental health services. The Pauls Valley Clinic is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays.
“We're just here and available to the community,” Gallup said. “We're here to help. You'd be amazed at how beneficial it is to have someone to talk to.”
On Wednesday, Lighthouse therapists and care coordinators set up at Pauls Valley Elementary School alongside community partners, including school counselors from Dickson and Ardmore and therapy dogs from Heroes of Hope.
These resources will also be on-site at the high school and junior high as classes resume.
“We will be there in the morning and as long as we are needed,” Gallup said.
For services outside the regular office hours, Lighthouse provides a crisis line at 1-800-522-1090 that is available 24/7.
“Our crisis diversion team will get you where you need to go if you are experiencing a crisis,” Gallup said.
Lighthouse also provides care coordinators who help connect people with a variety of services that may affect their mental health.
“We are trying to provide hope and healing,” Gallup said.
The Pauls Valley Clinic is at 109 S. Willow Street and available by phone at (405) 238-7311.
Tips for Tough Times
- Meet basic needs first: Hydration. Food. Rest. Make sure the entire family is drinking water, eating regularly, and getting enough sleep. These basics help bodies and brains manage stress. 'What do you want to eat tonight? You pick! Drinking water and staying full helps keep our bodies healthy during this hard time.'
- Meet your child where they are: Some children want to talk about a difficult event immediately, while others need time. Let them guide the conversation. 'I know you’ve been through a scary situation, and I’m here to talk about it anytime you’re ready.”
- Make routine a priority: Returning to familiar routines as soon as possible helps children feel safe again. Even small routines matter. 'Our routine helps our bodies remember we are safe.”
- Use the Name Game to ground: Naming things you see, animals, or favorite movies helps bring the brain back to the present moment. This works for kids and adults. 'I notice you’re having a tough time. Let’s play the Name Game— name five things you can touch right now.'
Tips provided by Amanda Henley-Morton, Lighthouse Director of Children and Family Services