Andrea Clevenger battled several addictions and homelessness

Mental Health Download: Exploring Mental Illness, Suicide, Homelessness and Incarceration

Today, we're talking with Andrea Clevenger, Community Response Team Case Manager for Mental Health Association Oklahoma.

Andrea started with the agency as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist on the original Street Outreach team nearly two years ago before being promoted to Case Manager on our Community Response team – a partnership with the City of Oklahoma City. Both teams are critical components to ending homelessness in our state.

She, herself, experienced homelessness for many years as she struggled with myriad addictions, which, along with an unwavering commitment to service, contributes to her professional success. It was an honor to talk in-depth with Andrea about her journey of housing, healing and wholeness, and to learn about the mottos that guide her – and in turn, guide her clients.

We are grateful to have Andrea on, today, as she shares her story with us. She is brave. She is genuine. She is a joy to share space with.

She referenced her friend who works at 988, and we’d be remiss not to remind the listeners that 988 is a free resource staffed with mental health experts who can assist you or someone you know with a mental health crisis. It’s mental health’s version of 911. They can be reached 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Additionally, if you are in a non-emergent situation and you need assistance finding mental health care or substance use treatment, you can call our Mental Health Assistance Center at 918.585.1213 or 405.943.3700 Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 5pm or complete the form on our website at www.mhaok.org.