HONESDALE, WAYNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— A new mental health center is now open in northeastern Pennsylvania.
It is a resource center that many say is very much needed in Wayne and Pike counties,
28/22 News Reporter Joe Mason was at Friday’s opening and explained the center’s goals.
The Northeast Regional Crisis Stabilization Center is now officially open in Honesdale.
Friday morning’s kickoff included two ribbon cuttings, speeches from community leaders, and tours of the new facility.
The center is the first of its kind in Wayne County, offering a stabilization unit and a residential unit.
The stabilization unit provides short-term support from counselors and peers, while the residential unit offers an extended stay.
All of this at no cost.
“The view for crisis is that people have somewhere to call, somewhere to go, and someone to respond, and this is the somewhere to go,” declared Tina Clymer, administrator, Carbon Monroe Pike Mental Health and Development Services.
“The citizens of Wayne and Pike counties and the surrounding areas have not had this level of care. So, with this nice facility, ease of access, no cost to anybody receiving treatment here, I think people will be a little more apt to get help when they need it,” said John Nebzydoski, behavioral health director, Wayne County.
Former U.S. Congressman Matt Cartwright advocated for and ultimately secured federal funding for the project.
“This is a need. People go into crisis. Mental health crisis. Drug and alcohol addiction crisis. These are not evil things. They’re not moral failings. They’re illnesses,” stated Cartwright.
Officials say they hope this new resource helps those struggling with mental illness.
“It really is just giving a place for people in the community to come when they’re struggling with their mental health,” said Patty Gilore, director of programs, Center for Community Resources.
If you or someone you know is struggling, here is the link to the center.
The center will mainly serve individuals in Wayne and Pike counties.