Connection with care team keeps patient going

Nov. 22, 2023 -- Jasmine Edwards looks forward to her time in Richmond.

She commutes from New Castle to receive care at Reid Health's Outpatient Behavioral Health in Richmond.

The drive is worth the strong connection she feels with her care team.

There Edwards has found acceptance and the comfort to be herself.

"I have been through at least a couple other behavioral clinics. I just never really felt like I fit in there or that my care was that great," Edwards said.

Years ago, Edwards wasn't receiving treatment. Her first connection with Reid's care team was made during a stay in the hospital.

"At that point, I really liked the staff there. I felt like the care providers were knowledgeable," she said.

Reid's behavioral health clinic was located on the main campus then. Once the clinic moved to its current location on North J Street, she continued her care there, making the one-hour round trip each visit.

It took time and a few adjustments to find the right match for Edwards.

She credits the efforts of April Coffin, LCSW, Reid's Director of Outpatient & Adolescent Behavioral Health, for finding the providers who could connect with her. Coffin paired Edwards with Barbie Will, Clinical Manager, and arranged for her to work with Oladele Oladapo, MD.

"I absolutely love her," Edwards said of Will. "I never had a therapist who I felt was non-judgmental and really cared about me and what I had to say."

Three years later, the connection serves as the motivation for her to continue treatment.

"Barbie shares things with me as well and that helps me to connect with her better," Edwards said. "I've never been one to stick with therapy. I bounced from therapist to therapist, and I never really felt connected, and that's honest. Not until I met Barbie."

Dr. Oladapo provides a comfortable environment so Edwards never feels awkward or anxious.

Heather Schubert, LPN, is another reason Edwards feels valued. Schubert's compassion makes it easier for her to continue care.

"She's just been amazing. She goes above and beyond to make sure all her patients are taken care of," Edwards said.

The medical staff makes a difference for Edwards. They know her by name. They treat her like a person and not a patient. When she walks into the clinic, she doesn't feel as though anyone is judging her.

With multiple trips to the clinic each week, Edwards feels it's like a second home. Mostly, she hopes the team receives recognition for the care they provide.

"All the staff is super friendly to anyone who walks in the door," she said.

To request an appointment with Reid Health Outpatient Behavioral Health, visit reidhealth.org.