A person or family doesn’t need to be in the midst of a full-blown crisis to call, either. That’s why Mikel stresses that it’s OK to reach out even for problems you might be tempted to dismiss as too minor for the professionals. “I think a common misconception is that people need to stay in therapy for years,” she says. “Short-term support allows people to check in as needed to navigate a specific challenge.” 

Rich agrees. “Problems tend to get smaller after therapy,” she says. “Sometimes you need another person, a professional, to help you sort it out. Some of us are still dealing with feelings of loneliness and isolation from the pandemic. Other folks are anxious or depressed. But we’re here for all needs, great and small. We know how to help.” 

Over the past two years, more and more Masons and their loved ones have tapped into that help. Time and again, Rich, Mikel, and the rest of the MCYAF team hear a common refrain: “I wish I knew about you sooner.” 

Now, they’re on a mission to change that. 

“It’s really important that every Mason knows they have this invaluable resource waiting for them,” Rich says. “Life has a lot of ups and downs. You never know what’s going to happen around the bend. You may not need us now. But in case you need us in the future, you should know we’re here.”