Author
John Tolley, CRSS: Supporting Individuals with Mental Health Challenges
John Tolley is a Certified Recovery Support Specialist and La Grange Living Room Program Manager at NAMI, where he supervises the team, conducts one-on-one check-ins, facilitates groups, and manages scheduling. A retired Chicago Police Officer and academy instructor, John is passionate about supporting individuals with mental health challenges, inspired in part by his own son’s experience with schizophrenia. This is his story on meeting Jacob, an individual who utilizes NAMI resources and services.
How NAMI Support Helps Individuals with Mental Health Challenges Thrive
I first met Jacob last January and we got along very well. Jacob has been living with OCD and Autism Spectrum Disorder since a young age. He continues to this day to educate me on Autism and OCD. He currently lives in a group home, but his desire is to live on his own one day. He believes the key to moving out is keeping his room organized and clean.
Jacob also hopes to meet a partner and build a lasting relationship. What amazes me is his dedication to volunteering at a therapeutic stable and helping others in need. He is giving back to the community and finding purpose through these efforts. I’m also proud of him for obtaining employment that plays upon his strengths and allows him to enjoy other people’s company.
Not every day is sunshine and roses, and there are times when he uses his coping tools. Becoming a guest at the Living Room helps ground Jacob, teaches him new skills to try, and assists him in moving forward in recovery. He feels at peace here and has no problem opening up about his thoughts and struggles. Through conversation and the use of recovery tools, Jacob has been able to make great progress in his recovery journey. Jacob is on a good path to success, and I wish him the best.
NAMI Supports Adults Living with Mental Health Conditions
Our NAMI Metro Suburban Adult Programs offer recovery support, peer connection, and wellness tools to empower individuals and families. If you or a loved one is seeking support for a mental health condition, learn more about our adult programs today.
