The Columbia Catholic Mental Health Ministry will host a presentation, "Understanding Mental Health Services: Access, Outpatient Care, and Cost," at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 404 Cherry St., Columbia. The event, which will be held in the parish center, is open to the public, regardless of religious affiliation.

The Columbia Catholic Mental Health Ministry - jointly supported by St. Peter and Holy Trinity Catholic churches - provides spiritual support, community, and education for individuals experiencing mental health challenges and their families. While not a substitute for professional treatment, the ministry seeks to reduce stigma, increase understanding, and offer compassionate accompaniment to those navigating mental illness.

The presentation will be led by Emily Huffer, director of clinical implementation for outpatient services at Pennsylvania Counseling Services. A licensed professional counselor, Huffer provides clinical care and supports mental health service delivery across community and school-based settings. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families and is committed to making mental health care more approachable and accessible. At the Pennsylvania Counseling Services office on Poplar Street in Columbia, she and her colleagues serve individuals and families throughout the region.

Huffer and a colleague will offer a practical overview of how individuals and families can begin mental health services, what to expect when starting treatment, and the types of outpatient supports available. The session will also address common questions related to costs, insurance coverage, and payment options. In addition, presenters will review several therapeutic modalities commonly used in outpatient care.

The program is part of the Columbia Catholic Mental Health Ministry's ongoing effort to provide the community with reliable, compassionate, and accessible mental health education.

For more information, contact deacon Jim Doyle at ccmentalhealthministry@gmail.com or 717-343‑1102.