New Mental Health Clinic for Veterans Opens in Manhattan, KS

UPDATE: A crucial mental health clinic dedicated to veterans and military families has just opened its doors in Manhattan, Kansas. The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone began operations this month, aiming to address the urgent needs of military personnel and their families following alarming reports of suicide within military units.

A recent report by Blue Star Families reveals that 1 in 4 active duty military service members and their spouses reported a suicide within their unit or command in the past year. This alarming statistic underscores the critical need for accessible mental health services. Located at 1960 Kimball Ave., Suite 375, directly across from the Bill Snyder Family Stadium, the clinic is poised to make a significant impact.

The Cohen Veterans Network, a national not-for-profit organization, partnered with Centerstone to deliver personalized and confidential therapy. The clinic provides treatment for a range of issues including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and challenges related to transitioning from military life. The services are available to post-9/11 veterans, all service members regardless of activation status, and military family members including spouses, children, and caregivers.

According to Katie Hund, clinic director and Kansas State University alumna, the clinic empowers service members to define who their family members are, ensuring that those who need support can access it.

“The goal is to remove as many barriers to mental health care as possible,”

Hund stated, highlighting the clinic’s commitment to accessibility.

The facility utilizes evidence-based treatment methods designed to offer high-quality care. Importantly, the clinic accommodates veterans and service members irrespective of their discharge status and offers telehealth services to reach individuals in rural areas. Hund emphasized that the demand for mental health services in rural Kansas is critical, stating,

“We have staff that are specifically trained in working with military families.”

To further enhance accessibility, the clinic provides child watch services for clients attending in-person sessions and can arrange transportation via Uber for those without adequate means of getting to appointments. Services are tailored to individual needs and typically span 10-12 weeks.

The clinic is currently accepting appointments. Interested individuals can call 785-370-6400 or email [email protected] for more information. As mental health challenges continue to rise among military families, the opening of this clinic represents a vital step towards providing necessary support and care.

Stay tuned for more updates on this important initiative focused on improving the mental health and well-being of veterans and their families.