Integrated Network for Cambodians (INC) is a Community-Designed Integrated Service Management (ISM) Model. INC’s model redefines public mental health services by integrating mental health, physical health, and substance abuse services. INC’s primary goal is to reach the underserved Cambodian population with culturally sensitive care while removing barriers to access. It works directly within the community by collaborating with non-traditional service providers to support the recovery of clients.
Pacific Asian Counseling Services (PACS) is the lead agency for INC and provides the mental health and substance abuse services while The Children’s Clinic (TCC) provides physical health services. The Cambodian Associations of America (CAA) reach out through education linkage, engagement and advocacy
Spiritual traditions such as the use of the Buddhist Blessing Ceremony, mindful meditations and cooking classes as well as healing practices such as acupuncture are used as part of the treatment modality along with Western counseling services.
“Anxiety symptoms attacked me and was more painful than my Asthma. No one understood what I was feeling inside except for my therapist and the INC team. When I am able to be free of anxiety, my wish is to share my own experiences to help others to also be free of pain.”
“I am so thankful for the services that I received from INC. Because of INC and my therapist, I was given an entire new life to live.”
INC works to overcome the stigma associated with mental illness and remove some of the barriers to care with culturally sensitive care and linguistically appropriate services.
“I didn’t know that I was suffering from PTSD & depression until I received support from INC. I felt all alone. …I learned that I could help myself and each day I am eager to learn more about my symptoms and how I can have a better life.”
Our cooking classes were very popular. The clients were the teachers and it was a way to pass on their tradition to others. The classes usually took place in a temple and the monks were fed as well as the guests. The classes were free and open to clients, family members, staff, temple members and guests.