Vision and Values
The Oak Center is committed to improving quality of life for our clients, their family members, and the community by increasing access to evidence-based mental health treatment, education, and resources. We do this to instill hope, reduce emotional suffering, and decrease psychiatric hospitalizations and deaths by suicide.
Dignity
Your thoughts, emotions, and experiences matter. We are committed to engaging everyone with value and respect, as well as providing a safe environment for you to grow at The Oak Center. We are also growing, and we will actively work to increase our awareness and understanding of each person’s unique background and needs.
Radical Genuineness
You are not just a client - you are a human with your own distinct qualities. We invite you to come each day exactly as you are, including all of the parts of yourself that you like and dislike. We are also committed to being authentic with you in order to build a meaningful connection where healing and progress are embraced.
Balancing Acceptance & Change
The essence of dialectical thinking is finding the truth within two opposing ideas, rather than choosing one over the other. We invite you to come as you are, and we recognize that change is a fundamental aspect of growth. We are committed to validating your unique experiences of reality and helping you learn strategies to enhance your quality of life.
Anti-Discrimination Statement
The Oak Center believes in the dignity and worth of all people, and we are committed to offering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. We believe everyone should be treated equally regardless of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion or religious creed, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy or related condition (including childbirth and breastfeeding), age, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship, or other characteristics protected by state or federal law or local ordinance.
The Story of Our Name
Though oak trees start out as simple acorns, they grow into “the king of the forest” if planted in the right environment. At The Oak Center, we believe that everyone has the roots to be a mighty “oak tree.” We can’t promise that rain and snow won’t come, but we can promise to teach you the skills needed to help you stay standing through the storm. The following poem was written by Larla Bogle on behalf of The Oak Center to represent the deeper meaning of our name and identity.
The Bur Oak in Southern Boone County, Missouri; Photo by Bob Doyle
This Oak Tree
The ancient oak stands tall and strong
A storm rages around.
It bends and sways
but still it stays
Firmly in the ground.
“I’m more,” it shouts “than what you see
Deep roots are how I thrive.
My growth is slow
My strengths don’t show
But they’re how I survive.”
“What’s pounding rain to me?” it says.
“So what if harsh winds blow?
Not long ago
I stood in snow
In droughts I even grow.”
One season leaves and acorns fall,
Another sees their growth.
But as I change
Through sun and rain
I find there’s hope in both.
My acorns feed, my leaves bring shade
I know I will not fail.
I bring great worth
To those on earth
This oak tree will prevail.