After witnessing an overdose in her family, Toni Jordan wanted to bring awareness to mental health. That experience sparked an idea to create a safe space for Delawareans struggling with addiction.
Jordan’s idea turned into the creation of NorthNode Group Counseling, a rehabilitation center that provides mental health counseling and therapy through the lens of race and equity. It is a Black-owned and state-licensed substance abuse facility in Dover.
“We target everyone, but we also make special consideration to minorities especially because I’m a Black woman and I know that in my community mental health treatment can be seen as something you don’t do,” Jordan said. “I wanted to make mental health a down-to-earth practice so others can feel that it is as normal as going to the doctor for a physical."
Their efforts are being noticed.
Last month, Delaware’s Small Business Administration selected NorthNode as the Minority-Owned Small Business of the Year — an award presented to recognize the best small businesses in the state. It is held annually during National Small Business Week, April 30 to May 6.
Jordan, who has led NorthNode as its co-founder, works with licensed clinicians and certified therapists to serve various clients, whom she often referred to as “unique individuals.” She said one of the goals of NorthNode is to make mental health resources more accessible, especially in communities where the stigma against treatment is strongest.
According to Delaware's Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, there are 196 suspected overdose deaths in the state this year.
“We go out in the community and physically talk to people about prioritizing mental health before it’s an issue — and when there is an issue — not being ashamed of it,” Jordan said.
Center's coping programs extend to couples, families, children
Since 2016, NorthNode has served more than 3,000 people in the Dover area. Their services include one-on-one mental health counseling, family therapy, couples counseling and access to programs to help keep clients active and sober.
“We’re a fun and dynamic team because not only do we provide mental health services, but we also have innovative programming around it to make it interesting and interactive," Jordan said.
Jordan is proud about administering the center’s Intensive Outpatient Program — a service for individuals who are suffering from any kind of substance abuse disorder like drug and alcohol addiction.
In addition to regular programming, NorthNode hosts free after-school programs to help children develop healthy mental health coping skills. The programs include basketball, martial arts, creative expression and boxing, said Angela Robinson, NorthNode’s clinical director.