Episode Details

Sponsored by Eco-Cool HVAC

In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett (or is it Conversations with Wendy now?), we spotlight the unsung champions of Maryland Wellness. Rich and cohost Wendy Beck sit down with Leann, Ralph, and Ashia to explore how PRP services are transforming mental health care across Harford County. From home visits to building trust, these pros go beyond therapy to change lives—one relationship at a time.

Guests: Leann Roderick, Ralph Watkins & Asha

·         Leann Roderick – Community Relations Coordinator at Maryland Wellness and lifelong Harford County resident. Leann connects local communities with essential mental health services and is passionate about closing the gap between substance abuse support and mental health care.

·         Ralph Watkins – Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner with over 30 years in mental health. Ralph specializes in helping clients regain stability and independence through hands-on, behavior-focused recovery programs.

·         Ashia Herndon – PRP Counselor at Maryland Wellness. Asha is on the front lines, building trust and making real change through home visits and client-centered support, especially in underserved communities.

Main Topics:

·         Overview of Maryland Wellness and its statewide mental health services

·         The role and impact of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Programs (PRP)

·         Differences between therapy and PRP: feelings vs. behaviors

·         COVID-19’s long-term effects on mental health and service demand

·         Reducing stigma around mental health and increasing community awareness

·         The importance of in-home visits and real-world client engagement

·         Challenges in accessing mental health housing and support services

·         Collaboration with courts, therapists, and substance abuse programs

·         Eligibility requirements and diagnosis criteria for PRP

·         Personal stories and motivations from the Maryland Wellness team

Resources mentioned:

People

• Rich Bennett – Host
• Wendy Beck – Cohost
• Leann Roderick – Guest, Community Relations Coordinator
• Ralph Watkins – Guest, Psychiatric Rehabilitation Specialist
• Ashia Herndon – Guest, PRP Counselor

Organizations & Businesses:

• Maryland Wellness – Featured organization providing PRP and mental health services across Maryland
• Eco-Cool HVAC – Episode sponsor, offering heating and cooling services in Harford County

Programs & Services:

• Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) – Core service discussed throughout the episode
• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) – Briefly mentioned for comparison
• SNAP & TCA (Temporary Cash Assistance) – Referred to as “entitlements” supporting clients
• HUD Housing – Mentioned in context of long waitlists and housing barriers
• Drug Court / Circuit Court – Referenced as a source of mental health referrals

Websites:

• Eco-Cool HVAC – www.ecocoolhvac.com 
• Maryland Wellness -

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