I want to express my opinion about Odyssey Behavioral Health’s proposal to open a treatment program for gaming and internet addiction in Leyden. I write this letter as a 16-year resident of Leyden, as well as in my capacity as a clinical social worker with 40 years of experience, most of this has been in Franklin County.
When my husband and I moved to Leyden 16 years ago, we were so excited and felt so lucky to have the opportunity to live in such a beautiful, peaceful, and idyllic setting. We continue to feel the same today.
Nevertheless, we also live in a complex culture and society. We cannot hide in Leyden, and ignore the problems of modern life. We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to be flexible, compassionate, and open to helping others when we can. This proposal by Odyssey is an important opportunity for us to open our hearts and doors, and to be generous about sharing our community and natural resources with others who are troubled, less fortunate, and who would benefit from this rural environment.
In my career as a social worker, I have worked in a variety of settings, and my work has included program development and administration. I listened carefully to Dr. Greenfield, to the mother of one of his clients, and to the Odyssey administrators. This was, in my opinion, a grounded, organized, and thoughtful presentation. I left feeling confident that they will do a competent and responsible job with this program in our community. In addition, I believe that Dr. Greenfield made credible claims about his 20 years of experience with this population, most importantly, that they are not dangerous, and will not pose a risk to local residents. They also provided assurance that the clients will have 24 hour supervision and support.
I ask you to find compassion, generosity, and acceptance, and to be open to the opportunity to host this program in our community. I hope that you will approve their request.
Ginnie Gilson, LICSW, is a resident of Leyden.