RiverValley Behavioral Health celebrated the grand opening of The Phoenix Center, a new crisis residential program, with an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday. RiverValley leaders said The Phoenix Center’s mission is to address urgent mental health needs in the community.
The facility is located at the RiverValley Center at 1100 Walnut Street.
The new venture will provide short-term, round-the-clock crisis support for individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises. It includes eight beds for adults on a voluntary basis and is designed to stabilize individuals and help them on their journey to recovery.
“For individuals facing a mental health or substance use crisis, RiverValley provides three essential supports: someone to talk to through our 988 hotline, someone to respond through our Mobile Crisis Team, and with The Phoenix Center, a safe place to receive the help and support they need during times of crisis,” said Senior Director of Mental Health & Substance Use Crisis Services Michelle Nobles. “At The Phoenix Center, we offer a warm, supportive environment where each person’s unique needs are met with immediate and compassionate care.”
The Phoenix Center – formerly the Crisis Stabilization Unit – has been remodeled and rebranded to provide new and enhanced services. It operates alongside RiverValley’s regional 988 call center for the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the Mobile Crisis Team, which offers face-to-face evaluations and assessments for those in need.
Dr. Wanda Figueroa Peralta, President and CEO of RiverValley Behavioral Health, noted the significance of the center’s opening on World Suicide Prevention Day.
“September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day, and we cannot think of a better opportunity to come together to raise awareness about this vital resource that strives for a future where fewer lives are lost to suicide,” Peralta said. “We are honored to provide this vital service for our community and want those experiencing mental health and substance use challenges to know that recovery is possible, and they do not have to face their journey alone.”
Leaders said the center aims to offer a less confining alternative to traditional inpatient care, working closely with clients, their families, and other healthcare providers to develop tailored recovery plans. The team includes a clinical director, nurse coordinator, psychiatric providers, and peer support specialists, all committed to providing compassionate care and support.
Several local officials spoke at the grand opening ceremony, including judges Lisa Payne and David Payne, Mayor Tom Watson, Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen, and State Rep. DJ Johnson. Many community members also attended the celebration.
Attendees of the event were invited to tour the facility, meet the staff, and enjoy light refreshments.
