Psychiatrist to Give Talk on Homelessness

Early this year, when psychiatrist Alex Kopelowicz accepted an invitation to address the Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce on the issue of homelessness, he had no idea that speaking to the Valley business community would become a regular gig.

On Thursday, Kopelowicz, who is director of Los Angeles County’s San Fernando Mental Health Center in Mission Hills, will address the Chatsworth Chamber of Commerce. It’s the latest in a string of monthly talks that have him booked well into next year.

Kopelowicz was initially approached to speak on the subject by Gwen Bentley of the Sherman Oaks chamber.

“There is a big problem in some areas and a lot of resentment about homeless people hanging out in front of businesses,” said Bentley. “He helps us to understand how to approach the homeless and where we can refer them to get help.”

Kopelowicz advocates sensitivity in dealing with the homeless. It is much better to direct a person toward help, he says, than to turn away.

“A part of this is trying to destigmatize the mentally ill, to dispel the myths,” he said. “This is a biological sickness and they need help, not necessarily detention.”

His goal in making the presentations, he said, is simply to encourage people to be more understanding and more willing to help.

“You know, homeless people are much more likely to be the victims of violence and crime than the perpetrators. Most people don’t realize that.”

Kopelowicz will address the Chatsworth Chamber of Commerce during a luncheon from noon to 1 p.m. at the Porter Valley Country Club in Northridge. The meeting is free and open to the public but there is a charge for the meal. For more information, call (818) 341-2428.