holistically keeping your brain strong no matter what age.
Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” — Lao Tzu
Welcome
Venita Welcome's Story
During a routine doctor visit, I was unexpectedly diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment after taking a MOCA cognitive assessment. With over 20 years of experience as a Christian Counselor specializing in emotional health, this came as a shock since I thought brain fog was due to aging. The doctor recommended a plan that required the support of a loved one or friend, but when I asked what happens to those without support, the answer—that they couldn’t participate—didn’t sit well with me.
Determined to fill that gap, I became a 2.0 ReCode Practitioner. Yet, I felt something was missing—the program didn’t address unresolved trauma, grief, or spirituality. That led me to Dr. Daniel Amen’s "Brain Health" program, where I became a holistic health certified Brain Health Coach - Practitioner.
Blending these two approaches gave me a holistic view of brain health, which I used on my own healing journey. Revisiting my doctor, I took the SLUMS assessment and scored 26—within the normal range. Now, I’m passionate about using these insights to help others on their path to cognitive and emotional wellness.
Holistic Support for Cognitive Health
At the Holistic Brain Health Support Center, I take the guesswork out of cognitive decline. By understanding your unique story—your brain, your emotional, physical, and spiritual needs—I provide the answers you seek and the solutions you deserve. Your healing journey begins with a phone call , where I will personally guide you through what to expect every step of the way with cognitive assessment.
Do You know?
Cognitive Decline:
- 1 in 9 people over age 65 experiences cognitive decline, which can impact memory, reasoning, and judgment. Early detection and care are crucial for managing these changes.
The Importance of Lifestyle:
- Up to 40% of dementia cases can be delayed or prevented by making key lifestyle changes such as improving diet, increasing physical activity, managing stress, and maintaining social connections.
Brain Health Starts Early:
- Cognitive decline often begins as early as your 40s, though symptoms may not appear until later. A brain-healthy lifestyle can protect and strengthen cognitive function at any age.
Trauma and Mental Health:
- Unresolved trauma, chronic stress, and untreated depression are significant risk factors for cognitive decline. Emotional and spiritual well-being are key to maintaining overall brain health.
Your Personal History
To help me learn more about you, you’ll meet with me a certified Brain Health Coach, Montreal Cognitive Assessment certified and 2.0 ReCode certified Practitioner. I will explore your symptoms and four key areas of your life—Biological, Psychological, Social, and Spiritual—that may be contributing to those symptoms. This comprehensive two-hour process allows me to fully understand your unique needs and create a personalized plan just for you.
Is Your Brain At Risk?
- Poor Memory
Trouble remembering things, especially recent events, can signal problems with brain function. This could be due to stress, aging, or even brain injuries. - Difficulty Focusing
Struggling to pay attention or feeling easily distracted might indicate issues with the brain’s ability to process information efficiently. - Mood Swings
Frequent changes in mood, such as irritability or sadness, can reflect imbalances in brain chemicals or unrecognized brain health problems. - Anxiety or Depression
Persistent feelings of worry or sadness often relate to brain health. These emotional states can point to underlying brain chemistry imbalances or chronic stress. - Sleep Problems
Inadequate sleep, whether trouble falling or staying asleep, affects brain regeneration and can contribute to memory and cognitive decline.
Detailed Clinical Assessments
Each patient begins with either a Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA), which detects cognitive impairment, or the Saint Louis University Mental Status (SLUMS) exam, a screening tool for Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Based on your unique needs, additional assessments may be recommended to give me a deeper understanding of your brain health.
Who Works With Me?
I work with individuals, providing one-on-one counseling tailored to their unique cognitive and emotional needs. I also support families and caregivers, helping them understand the cognitive changes their loved ones are experiencing and offering practical strategies for care and communication. In collaboration with medical professionals, I provide emotional and spiritual support to patients facing cognitive challenges, ensuring a holistic approach to their well-being. Additionally, I engage with faith communities, offering spiritual counseling and workshops on cognitive health and emotional resilience, fostering spaces for understanding and healing within church groups.
What Sets Me Apart?
With over 20 years of experience in mental health I specialize in brain aging and emotional resilience, offering personalized support to individuals, families, and caregivers facing the challenges of cognitive decline. My approach is holistic, blending creativity, spirituality, and practical strategies to foster healing and understanding. I also collaborate closely with medical and mental health professionals, ensuring comprehensive care for each person and their support system. Together, we’ll create a plan that supports your cognitive health and emotional well-being.
How I Make Care Accessible?
From the very beginning, I’ve made it a priority to offer services that are both accessible and supportive for individuals and families. I understand that navigating cognitive decline and brain health can be overwhelming, and ensuring you have access to the right care is crucial.
To make things easier, I accept Medicare (Part B), Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and United Healthcare. These partnerships allow me to reach more people in need of brain health support. Unfortunately, at this time, I am unable to accept Medicaid or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).
For those without insurance, I offer flexible payment options to ensure that financial concerns don’t prevent you from receiving the care you need or desire..
My goal is to provide you with personalized, compassionate care while making sure the financial aspect is as straightforward as possible.