At PCH, we prefer to put names and faces to the philosophy guiding our approach whenever possible. To better accomplish that, we will begin sharing the firsthand perspectives of the people behind our treatment programs with monthly staff interviews.
Read more of our conversation with Director Human Resources, Tyra Goodman, and her guiding philosophy and principles.
1. What does “mental health” mean to you?
Having the emotional/social capacity to appropriately respond to daily living and interaction in our broader society.
2. What’s your favorite mental health or well being quote?
“I show my scars so that others know they can heal.”
3. What do you think is the most useful wellness resources?
For me, meditation focused on mindfulness.
4. What do you do to take care of your own mental health needs?
Daily physical exercise, meditation, and affinity group memberships amongst peers.
5. How would you describe PCH Treatment Center to a family or friend in need?
A psychological treatment center that is considered unconventional simply by its overall approach of characterizing mental wellness by understanding what happened to you as opposed to diagnosing you and labeling WHO you are by that diagnosis.
6. What inspires you most at PCH?
My interaction with PCH staff and to be engaged with those who feel it is their purpose to be of service to others.
7. What’s your top three favorite movies?
Good Fellas, Marley and Me, and The Fifth Element
8. How have you coped with Covid in the last few years?
Quarantine, Working to keep busy and ensure that PCH remained a safe place for our staff and clients, and a whole bunch of Netflix binge watching.
9. What’s your superpower?
I’m a “people whisperer.” Typically, people have been called “Horse Whisperers,” because they have a way of calming horses when they become dysregulated or out of control. I’d apply the same principle to me but just with people.
10. Top three book recommendations and why?
The Coldest Winter Ever, Dreams from My Father, and Between the World and Me. All books provide context about being African American in America from three very different perspectives.
11. How do you balance your job and PCH and time family/community time?
I have very clear boundaries. Unless it is necessary, I do not bring any work home with me. The time with my family is extremely important to me and I guard it very closely.
12. What’s your dream vacation?
To travel to Ghana with my Mother, Sister, Daughter, and Niece. Looking for a generational bonding activity while my mother is able to travel.
13. What’s your favorite modality of treatment and why?
I have favorite physical treatments that I utilize often: Cryotherapy, Compression Therapy, Yoga, Meditation, and music serves as treatment for me as well.
14. What do you typically like to do when you’re not at PCH?
Various activities that include, spending time with family, singing, and reading books of interest.
15. If you can invite anyone alive or no longer living to your dinner party, who would you invite and why?
Maya Angelou – Just read one of her books, listen to one of her poems, check her out on YouTube if you’re unfamiliar. She had a phenomenally meaningful life and she was always ready and willing to give an inspiring thought when asked.
