MADISON – “Accept, Adapt, Grow!” will cover a series of sessions related to mental health — from aging to bullies — at First Baptist Church of Madison, 4257 Sullivan St.

“‘Accept, Adapt, Grow!’ is an eight-week series of relevant topics for today’s society, sponsored by the Pastoral Care Ministry of First Baptist Madison, and presented by professionals in their field,” Rev. Mary Jo Gessner said.

“We invite EVERYONE from the community (the more diverse, the better!) to join us in our sanctuary from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. every Wednesday night in August and September,” Gessner said. “There’s something for everyone in this series, and we always have the community in mind when narrowing down the list of possible topics.”

For the opening session on Aug. 7, the topic will be “Beautiful, Successful Aging” with facilitator Pam Frazier. Frazier works as an integrative nutrition health coach with Emmaus Wellness in Madison.

Ashley Hoffman with Valley Christian Counseling in Huntsville will lead the discussion on Aug. 14. Hoffman’s theme will be “Understanding and Caring for Trauma.”

A licensed clinical psychologist, Hoffman graduated summa cum laude from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a bachelor’s degree in honors psychology. She then earned master and doctorate’s degrees in clinical psychology at Florida Institute of Technology.

On Aug. 21, Dr. Sarah Ryan will approach the subject, “Understanding Autism Across the Lifespan.” Ryan works with Civitan-Sparks Clinics, affiliated with the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Civitan-Sparks Clinics provide evaluation and diagnostic services for developmental, behavioral, and genetic disorders.

On Aug. 28, the presenter will be Connie Glass, a Certified Elder Law Attorney or CELA with the Elder Law Firm of Connie Glass PC in Huntsville. Glass will look at legal matters that concern the elderly population.

Sarah Bengs with The Vine Pastoral Counseling Center will discuss “Setting Boundaries for Healthy Relationships” on Sept. 4. Bengs holds a master’s degree in social work and is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker. The Vine is a specialized church ministry with support by 20 different area congregations.

“How to Deal With Bullies Regardless of Your Age” will be the topic for Sept. 11. Bengs will return to facilitate.

On Sept. 18, Paulette Risher will discuss “Life in Transition: What Veterans Can Teach Us.” Risher is retired from the U.S. Army and serves as President/CEO of Still Serving Veterans. This national organization helps veteran families build meaningful lives through connections to fulfilling careers, benefits and services.

“Brain Health: Use it or Lose it” will be the subject for the last session on Sept. 25. Marsha Farrell, whose credentials include registered nurse, will preside. She owns Marsha Farrell Care Consulting LLC.

For more information, call 256-772-9712, email office@fbcmadison.net or visit fbcmadison.net.