Hector Gonzalez

Hector Gonzalez, RN, of Tryon was named the new Program Director of Senior Life Solutions at St. Luke’s Hospital where he has worked as a nurse since 2010.

Gonzalez attended Isothermal Community College in Spindale, N.C., where he received an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing. Upon receiving his degree, he launched his medical career, working as a charge nurse at Tryon Estates, Pavillon, and St. Luke’s Hospital (2010-present), and working as a staff nurse at Rutherfordton Regional (2015-present).

Gonzalez is licensed as a registered nurse (RN) and in both basic cardiac life support and advanced cardiac life support.

“Health concerns, changes in family dynamics, changes in economic station, and changes in the individual’s role in society can be overwhelming challenges to overcome,” Gonzalez said. “No one should have to confront the challenges of aging alone, and we at Senior Life Solutions can be the helping hand that guides you through these times. I’m excited and very fortunate to be working for a program that is so effective and provides such a needed resource to our seniors.”

Before Gonzalez entered the medical field, he served as a Marine in the United States Marine Corps from 2001 until 2005. After his departure from the armed forces, he moved to Florida to apprentice as a glazier, or someone who fabricates, repairs, and installs glass. In 2006, Gonzalez moved to Rutherfordton, N.C., to work as a glazier for B&J Glass.

Gonzalez accepted the Program Director position with Senior Life Solutions (SLS), an intensive outpatient counseling program that addresses the emotional and behavioral health of adults over the age of 65, in early March.

Through a combination of therapies, education, and wellness programs, SLS assists older adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, have recently experienced a traumatic event, and a host of other symptoms.

Under Gonzalez’s direction, SLS works with patients to find individualized treatment options to help them overcome the challenges of aging and find joy. Services offered include psychiatric evaluation, group therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, medication education, psychiatric medication management, and discharge planning. Patients may qualify for free transportation.

Referrals to the SLS program may be made by anyone, including a family member, primary care physician, or other healthcare professional. To refer a senior citizen to SLS, call 828-894-9890.

To contact Gonzalez, email Hector.Gonzalez@slhnc.org or visit the SLS offices at 48 Hospital Drive Suite 2B in Columbus, NC.

-Submitted by Cody Owens