Rep. Kathy LaNatra is currently serving her second term as State Representative of the 12th Plymouth District. It has been the honor of her life to work on behalf of her constituents to find resources, common sense solutions, and legislative pathways that will improve lives. She serves as Vice Chair on the Joint Committee on Export Development; she also serves on the Joint Committee on Ways & Means, the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, and the House Committee on Federal Stimulus and Census Oversight.
Improving access to high-quality mental health services is critical to the wellness of people of all ages. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused anxiety, depression and feelings of isolation for so many of our neighbors. Lost opportunities and connections, drastic changes to lifestyle, and the death of loved ones has many of us grieving something. Suicide is on the rise, and addiction issues have escalated. I was pleased to host a five-part Mental Health Series on PACTV this spring that addressed many of these issues, and I was honored to be named Legislator of the Year by the Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association earlier this year.
At the State House, I will work toward increased access to telehealth services that have been a crucial touchpoint during this challenging time. I will also advocate for better mental health counseling services for our first responder community.