This past weekend, Bradley Hospital’s Pediatric Anxiety Research Center (PARC) proudly hosted its annual reunion for graduates of its Partial Program for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Related Disorders. It was also a celebration of PARC’s 25 year anniversary. The event attracted over 250 former patients and their families, including attendees who traveled from out of state, creating a vibrant atmosphere of celebration and connection.
The reunion offered a unique opportunity for youth and their families to reunite with staff and fellow graduates, sharing stories of personal achievements and growth since their time at PARC. It was also an opportunity to fight the stigma of OCD, anxiety, and mental illness by returning to their psychiatric hospital for a giant party- something that would have been unheard of in the not-so-distant past.
PARC is a nationally recognized, integrated program dedicated to advancing research and treatment for children and adolescents facing OCD, OC-spectrum disorders, and anxiety disorders. Since its inception in 1999, PARC has been committed to providing evidence-based assessments and both behavioral and pharmacological treatments through innovative research and clinical care including both outpatient and partial hospital programs.
PARC is staffed by leading mental health professionals, internationally recognized researchers committed to groundbreaking studies, and educators who prioritize patient-centered care. Each service offered by PARC is designed to facilitate significant improvements in the lives of children and adolescents struggling with anxiety disorders.
“The success of this reunion speaks volumes about the impact of PARC’s program and the unwavering commitment of our dedicated staff. It’s great when we can come together to celebrate our shared success,” said Jennifer Freeman, PhD, Director of the Pediatric Anxiety Research Center at Bradley Hospital. “We are excited to continue our mission of delivering innovative treatments and advancing research for children and adolescents facing OCD and anxiety disorders.”
To learn more about the clinical programs and exciting research at PARC, visit www.parcanxiety.org and follow us on Twitter @parcanxiety.