Cody Busch is a busy guy. In addition to working a full-time job, he is also a single father, busy raising his nine year old son, Alex. His son lives with his mother mostly, and the little time that Cody gets to spend with Alex is precious to him. Being able to find employment that worked around this part of his schedule was essential. Luckily, Cody was able to find this opportunity at his new job as a crisis counselor for Crisis Services Inc.
Cody struggles with depression and anxiety, as well as PTSD induced grief, and ADHD. Over the years he has lost many close friends and experienced other trauma. Dealing with all this led to some substance abuse problems, which he has been dedicated to getting under control.
Cody began working with ACCES-VR many years ago when it was still known as VESID. They helped him throughout his years in college, where he was pursuing a degree in pharmacology. He began working with Andrea back in April of 2021, just prior to graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from University at Buffalo. It was important to Cody to find work that allowed him to help others. He originally considered work as a correctional officer; Andrea pointed him in another direction better suited to his interests. He began looking for work in the counseling and mental health fields.
In short order, Cody began getting offers from several different employers including Horizon Health Services among others. He almost accepted a position with Horizon, but the hours conflicted with his schedule and would have cut down on the time he could see his son.
Cody works as a hotline operator for Crisis Services. He is integral to the well-being of many across the area. "We help all kinds of people! It really puts it into perspective how much alike we all are. It feels good to help." Although he is currently still training (meaning there is a more experienced operator on the line overseeing him) he will be on his own in the near future. His duties also include connecting clients with follow up care from appropriate mental health professionals. It's important that people have the correct options and resources to continue to heal.
The training has been in depth and Cody feels very comfortable with the job. His supervisors have been very helpful and understanding. They worked with Cody to accommodate his scheduling needs. He works about 30 hours a week and makes $17 an hour. There are also activation hours which serve as an opportunity for Cody to earn some overtime.
There are a lot of stressors in Cody's life; luckily, he has many hobbies to help him to unwind. He plays the bass guitar, and the keyboard, likes conducting research, enjoys chemistry and likes to work in his garden.
Cody appreciated all of Andrea's guidance and patience. "I threw some curve balls at her, but she never gave up on me, which was a very nice feeling." Her commitment saw Cody through the process and gave him the confidence to continue moving forward. Cody's plans for the future include possibly returning to school to earn a masters degree and become a licensed mental health counselor, or perhaps learn a trade. He plans to continue growing.
Cody is putting the work in, and truly, focusing on his mental health—something he has struggled with in the past. He is currently in two rehab programs and meeting with a therapist regularly. This is helping him heal from trauma and grief that has arisen from it. This work is, as important to Cody, as his employment. He has someone depending on him and needs to be there on every level. He is doing an admirable job.
— Martin Kilroy, Writer for Innovative Placements