The Behavioral Mental Heath Team works to identify, support, educate and develop parish ministry along with support groups for clergy throughout the diocese. We also provide educational opportunities for those around the diocese which may include training in depression, suicide assessment, mental health first aid, and resources for referral and treatment.

Monthly Lunch & Learn Sessions: 3rd Tuesdays

November Lunch & Learn: Julie Saxton, Ames Mental Health Advocate

November 18, 2025 Noon - 1pm

In November, the Behavioral Health Ministry Team will welcome Julie Saxton, the Mental Health Advocate for the Ames Police Department, as our guest speaker. Come learn more about this unique role and its importance for the community.

Upcoming Lunch & Learns:

November 18 - Julie Saxton, Ames Mental Health Advocate

December 16 - Chris Waddle of Mind, Spirit Counseling Center

January 20 - Rev. Joseph Yoo, Mosaic Episcopal Church

OCTOBER LUNCH & LEARN: QPR Training with Nikoli Falenscheck

SEPTEMBER LUNCH & LEARN: Roxanne Petersen of NAMI Central Iowa

AUGUST LUNCH & LEARN: Rev. Eric Rucker

JULY LUNCH & LEARN: Dr. Kristen Meyers

MAY LUNCH & LEARN: Rev. Dr. Sarah Griffith Lund

MARCH LUNCH & LEARN: Rage Prayers, with Rev. Elizabeth Riley

FEBRUARY LUNCH & LEARN: Suicide Prevention

JANUARY LUNCH & LEARN: Ask Me Anything about Living with a Mental Illness

DECEMBER LUNCH & LEARN: Mental Health First Aid & Blue Christmas Services

NOVEMBER LUNCH & LEARN: Spiritual Direction

Meditation Series from Katy Lee & Christ Episcopal Church, Cedar Rapids

This series of videos is designed to help you relax, recharge, and focus on self care in the midst of a chaotic world.” These practices do not need to be viewed in any particular order and you are encouraged to try these techniques on a regular basis.

Mental Heath Funds Request Form

The Episcopal Diocese of Iowa, through a GILEAD Grant, has limited funds to assist with co-payments for mental health related appointments. You may request incremental funds for up to $50 per appointment. A completed request form is required for each appointment. You must submit a receipt for reimbursement or have a bill sent to the Diocesan office. Funds will be distributed on a first come, first serve basis.

Mental Health Funds Request Form

Local Organizations

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) of Central Iowa’s goal is to inspire better lives for Central Iowans affected by mental illness. They work to achieve this goal through support programs, educational outreach, and advocacy on local, state and national levels.

Mind & Spirit Counseling Center offers high-quality mental health services to people from all walks of life, including those who are uninsured, underinsured or from low-income households.

Mindspring Mental Health Alliance provides no-cost mental health education, support, and advocacy programs. All of Mindspring’s programs feature evidence-based curriculum and are available to all community members.