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

August Lunch & Learn: Rev. Eric Rucker of Simpson Youth Academy

August 19, 2025 Noon - 1pm

“The Church & Youth Mental Health: Discoveries & Tools”

with the Rev. Eric Rucker, campus chaplain at Simpson College & Director of the Simpson Youth Academy, Assisting priest at St. Andrews Episcopal, Des Moines.

Eric will share insights from the last 8 years of working with high school youth and their families at the Simpson Youth Academy. More specifically, we’ll explore: what are the most important mental health challenges and needs named by the 200 teens who have participated in the Academy? And what are the foundational practices and tools the Academy has developed for supporting teen mental health? Attention will specifically be given to how these tools can be applied in families and the local church setting.

Upcoming:

August 19 - Eric Rucker of Simpson Youth Academy

September 16- Roxanne Petersen of NAMI

October 21 - TBD

November 18 - Julie Saxton, Ames Mental Health Advocate

December 16 - TBD

MAY LUNCH & LEARN: Rage Prayers with Dr. Rev. Sarah Griffith Lund

MARCH LUNCH & LEARN: 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

Partners

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.