THANKFUL TUESDAYS with Deacon Laverne S. Williams, CSW

During this time of crisis and uncertainty many rely on faith for support and stability. The community is invited to join Laverne S. Williams, CSW, a Deacon at the Union Baptist Church in Montclair, for a free Zoom.us session, entitled "Thankful Tuesdays." During these sessions, Deacon Williams and her special guests explore important topics centered around faith and spirituality. The program is offered at 2 p.m. every Tuesday: individuals may participate online through the Zoom link.

Please join Deacon Williams on Tuesday, March 29th @2pm as she welcomes special guest, Dr. Dexter Juan Davis presenting, "Anxiety and Depression in the Black Community." Dr. Davis is a highly qualified and experienced professional. His credentials include Doctor of Education, Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Clinician, Master’s in Counseling, Family Therapist, Chief Operations Officer of UBEFIT LLC, a Therapist for the state of New Jersey's Juvenile Justice Commission, adjunct professor at UVI, Hostos College Bronx, NY and Ramapo College.

Of his experience he shares the following: "At the helm of “UBEFIT” LLC., I fully utilize my expertise specializing in substance abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, anger management, anxiety, depression, couples, and family therapy counseling, life coaching, and motivational speaking. I developed a 90 day substance abuse recovery curriculum and an innovative and productive therapeutic program titled "On The Ball" Leadership Program for athletes with crimes of domestic violence, substance abuse, and anger management." A proponent of Person/Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Evident Based Practices, Wellness, and Holistic Healing, Meditation (mindfulness) Music Therapy, and Stress Release Techniques. I have had the opportunity to impact not only the lives of the clients I serve, but also their families.

Laverne Williams, CSW is the Director of the PEWS (Promoting Emotional Wellness and Spirituality) Program for the Mental Health Association in New Jersey. Ms. Williams is a New Jersey Certified Social Worker, WRAP (Wellness & Recovery Action Plan) Facilitator, Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and Certified Grief Recovery Specialist. With over 35+ years of experience in mental health service, Ms. Williams is a highly sought-after conference keynote and workshop facilitator. Her workshops have been presented to numerous statewide and local agencies, consumer organizations and family member groups. As an advocate on behalf of persons with mental illness, and a Deacon at her church, Ms. Williams diligently develops partnerships between faith-based communities and behavioral health institutions by bridging the gap between theology and mental health.

Ms. Williams was quoted in the best selling book, Option B – Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy, by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Gant.

To contact Deacon Williams please email: lwilliams@mhanj.org