Penn Yan is set to welcome a transformative addition to its healthcare landscape with the establishment of a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), thanks to funding awarded to the Finger Lakes Area Counseling and Recovery Agency (FLACRA). This $265,000 conditional start-up grant, administered by the New York State Office of Mental Health and the Office of Addiction Services and Supports, aims to enhance access to integrated mental health and substance use care for residents, regardless of their financial means.
CCBHCs serve as a one-stop destination for comprehensive mental health, substance use, and physical health services. Dr. Ann Sullivan, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Mental Health, emphasized the significance of expanding these clinics across the state: “Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics provide a place where New Yorkers can access integrated services in one convenient location. By addressing gaps in our system of care, Governor Hochul’s commitment to mental health ensures that critical services are available when and where they are needed.”
The Penn Yan clinic will join a network of 26 established CCBHCs in New York, which collectively serve approximately 130,000 individuals annually. These clinics are designed to meet the needs of patients of all ages and insurance statuses, offering walk-in, immediate care for mental health and substance use disorders. In addition to Penn Yan, the latest round of funding supports the development of clinics in six upstate counties, four locations in New York City, and two on Long Island.
Comprehensive Services Offered CCBHCs are equipped to provide an array of critical services, including:
- 24-hour mobile crisis teams and crisis stabilization services.
- Screening, assessments, and patient-centered treatment planning.
- Outpatient mental health and substance use treatment.
- Connections to primary care and specialized health services.
- Psychiatric rehabilitation, targeted case management, and peer/family support programs.
- Intensive community-based mental health care for veterans and armed service members.
A Statewide Effort In addition to FLACRA in Yates County, funding recipients include organizations such as CASA Trinity in Livingston County, Horizon Health Services in Niagara County, and Family Counseling Services of Cortland. Downstate, beneficiaries include Jewish Board in Staten Island and Family & Children’s Association in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
The introduction of a CCBHC in Penn Yan is a significant step forward in closing critical care gaps for New Yorkers. As the clinic takes shape, it promises to deliver vital, integrated services to the community, ensuring that help is available for all who need it, regardless of their circumstances.
