102nd Intelligence Wing welcomes new Wing Director of Psychological Health

  • Published
  • By Jessica Dyer
  • 102nd Intelligence Wing Public Affairs
In 2010, Air National Guard leaders created new, wing-level positions to provide behavioral health support to Airmen and their families.

The 102nd Intelligence Wing welcomes Ms. Barbara Powers as its director of Psychological Health, or WDPH. In her role as WDPH, Powers wants to work on preventative services and psychological fitness for Air National Guard members.

"Anyone can stop down any time and chat. It doesn't have to be a formal meeting," said Powers.

In her role as WDPH, Powers supports the readiness of the 102nd IW through the promotion of psychological health and resilience. Powers consults with commanders regarding the psychological health of their members and units. As a member of the team of helping professionals, she supports and provides consultation to resiliency efforts, suicide prevention, traumatic stress response, and other programs supporting positive and mission-focused emotional well-being.

Powers is available to provide presentations to your unit or group on a variety of topics to enhance wellness; such as stress management, communication, conflict resolution, and relationships. Powers meets with Air Guard members to provide a clinical interview and referral to local mental health providers and other resources to address any issues hindering a member's maximum well-being.

With case management, she provides continuity and helps the member address any challenges with receiving services. Powers also collaborates with and assists with training local community providers regarding military culture, providing information related to best practices and treatment needed for ongoing counseling for Air Guard members and their families.

Powers has been a licensed mental health counselor for 20 years. She was previously the Massachusetts Child and Youth Military Family Life Consultant, leading her to be involved with all branches of the military and the children and families of deployed military members.

She has spent her entire life in Massachusetts, and currently resides in Buzzards Bay. As a Massachusetts native, Powers is an avid sports fan, especially of the Bruins. She has been to professional games for nearly every sport, except soccer.

"I've gone to everything except a Revolution game. I still have to do that," said Powers.

Her office is co-located with the Airman and Family Readiness Program office in the wing headquarters (building 158) and also has an office in building 197, room 10. She can be reached on her Blackberry, at 508-237-6652 and her email address is Barbara.Powers.Ctr@ang.af.mil.