St. Claire Regional psychiatrist, Laura Salyers, MD, was recognized by The Kentucky Psychiatric Medical Association (KPMA) as an outstanding psychiatrist in NAMI Lexington's Heroes in the Fight Awards Ceremony. The event honors providers and community supporters who are heroes in the fight against mental illness and stigma.
As a former President of the KPMA, Salyers was instrumental in starting an outreach program for area clergy. This program, called "Clergy Coffees" brought together local clergy and area psychiatrist to discuss the stigma of mental illness and ways to combat it.
During her tenure, she also developed a KPMA's "On the Road" program. Traveling through Kentucky, Dr. Salyers worked to hear the needs of and treat those with mental illness. Dr. Salyers was instrumental in the development of the "When not to Keep a Secret" essay contest. It is a judged essay writing program for 10th grade high school students in Kentucky-384 students participated in the program in 2008 from all around Kentucky.
Dr. Salyers has worked tirelessly for those with mental illness. A patient of Dr. Salyers stated, "She will always be my hero - she saved my life. I was close to suicide. The horrible days went on forever with no end in sight. The day I walked into her office will always be one of the turning points in my life. She cared, she listened. She looked me straight in the eye, and said, "What can I do to help you?"
Dr. Laura Salyers provides outpatient counseling at St. Claire Counseling. For more information please call 606.783.6805
