FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. (WXYZ) — It was two years ago that Tiffany and Rayshard Parker started Gentle Caress therapy group.
The goal at the time was to help moms. The goal now during the coronavirus pandemic is to help everyone currently struggling.
“Me growing up in Detroit and being born and raised, I have always wanted to give back to Detroit in some form or fashion,” said Rayshard.
WE’RE OPEN DETROIT: Married couple Tiffany and Rayshard Parker run Gentle Caress therapy group. Right now, they are offering therapy sessions at a discounted rate of $25 an hour. They know there are a lot of people who need it right now. @wxyzdetroit pic.twitter.com/ywC4X8PtIa
— Ali Hoxie (@ali_hoxie) April 24, 2020
Gentle Caress was started to help pregnant mothers, those suffering from postpartum depressions and moms who just might be stressed out.
Tiffany has a Masters degree in social work from Wayne State University.
“My background is in interpersonal therapy, which is family and couples counseling," said Tiffany. "So it kind of started there, and then as I did the program I realized I really wanted to focus in on mothers."
As a result of the coronavirus pandemic and Michigan's stay-at-home order, in-person therapy sessions are canceled. Instead, Gentle Caress is using telehealth video conferences to meet with clients.
Right now, the group is offering a special deal on therapy sessions: $25 for an hour.
“Whether they lost a family member, or you know, they are really struggling with having to stay inside and they have anxiety, depression you know. We really welcome that during this time because it is really kind of hard with everything going on, and so many people are passing away due to this virus,” said Tiffany.
The Parker family also understands the physical strains of being stuck indoors. They have a physical therapist on staff ready to help with at home work outs and nutrition plans.
If you’d like to get a free taste of what you can expect from reaching out, you can check out their “Caress the Mind” podcast.
They are currently working on collecting donations of clothing and groceries to help mothers struggling during this time.
