By Peter Tesei
In our ongoing mission to provide quality care and opportunities for individuals in need, Pathways is proud to highlight our partnership with Laurel House. Together, we are working to create meaningful change for those facing mental health challenges, and we are particularly grateful for the generous support from our community that makes our initiatives possible.
One of our most recent collaborative efforts is our work with Laurel House and their Harrison Hoffman’s Thinking Well Center. Thinking Well is a therapeutic, evidence-based Cognitive Remediation program designed to help individuals with serious mental illness overcome cognitive impairments that interfere with daily life. By improving critical thinking skills, participants can achieve greater independence, succeed in the workforce, pursue education, and better engage with their communities. The program includes instructor-led, computer-based exercises followed by discussion groups that help reinforce and apply cognitive skills in real-world settings.
“We are excited to collaborate with Laurel House in bringing the Thinking Well program to Pathways. While we are just beginning this initiative, we are confident that it will provide our clients with the tools they need to enhance their cognitive skills and achieve greater independence.” – Peter J. Tesei, Executive Director of Pathways, Inc.
Laurel House is one of only three organizations in Connecticut offering this transformative program, which follows the NEAR (Neuropsychological & Educational Approach to Cognitive Remediation) model. The success of Thinking Well is evident not only in the improved cognitive functioning of its participants but also in tangible life outcomes—securing employment, enrolling in post-secondary education, transitioning to independent living, and fostering greater social engagement. Participants frequently report increased self-confidence and a newfound ability to achieve personal recovery goals established at the beginning of the series of 10, 20, or 30 sessions.
“This evidence-based program has already served hundreds of individuals at Laurel House and in the community with positive outcomes. I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have at Pathways.” – Linda M. Autore, President and CEO of Laurel House, Inc.
At the heart of this initiative is the legacy of the late Harrison (Harry) Hoffman, a Greenwich resident and dedicated educator, social services advocate, and longtime supporter of Laurel House. Mr. Hoffman, a graduate of Dartmouth College and the Teachers College of Columbia University, spent 23 years as a teacher and counselor, shaping the lives of countless students. He understood that every individual learns differently and believed in the importance of tailoring education to meet each student’s needs—a philosophy that aligns perfectly with the individualized approach of the Thinking Well program.
Through our partnership with Laurel House, Pathways remains dedicated to identifying innovative and financially responsible solutions to support our clients. The Thinking Well program exemplifies the power of collaboration, demonstrating how strategic partnerships can create life-changing opportunities while operating within tight budgets.
We extend our deepest gratitude to those who make it all possible. Whether through generous donations, grants, community partnerships, or advocacy, every contribution plays a vital role in building a stronger, more inclusive community. We invite others to join us in supporting initiatives that transform lives—because together, we can create pathways to a brighter future for all.
Peter J. Tesei is the Executive Director of Pathways Inc. and previously served as Greenwich’s First Selectman for 12 years (2007-2019). His public service spans 37 years as a former RTM District 9 Chairman and Board of Estimate & Taxation Chairman. He has served on several non-profit Boards and community organizations and has been leading Pathways since November of 2021.
