Philadelphia has launched its first urgent care facility dedicated to mental health services, aimed at providing psychiatric evaluations, brief counseling sessions, prescription refills, and referrals. Located in a white brick building near North Broad Street and West Allegheny Avenue, the new walk-in clinic is a collaborative effort between mental health services provider Merakey and the city government.
As demand for behavioral health care surges amid a shortage of providers, interim commissioner Marquita Williams of the Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services emphasized the importance of such clinics. “For far too long, the barriers to mental health services have been many,” Williams stated. “We know that this clinic will make a difference in our city. We know that this clinic will make a difference for many individuals. We know that this clinic will make a difference for families. We know that this clinic will save lives.”
Funded by the city and managed by Merakey, a prominent regional and national behavioral health organization, the clinic is set to officially open its doors to patients on September 3.
The facility is designed to offer a welcoming and calming environment. The waiting area features soothing music and is adorned with artwork from local Philadelphia artists. Exam rooms are designed to resemble cozy living spaces, complete with couches, comfortable chairs, coffee tables, and soft rugs.
Nicole Connell, senior executive director for adult behavioral health services at Merakey in Southeastern Pennsylvania, highlighted the clinic’s focus on immediate, solution-oriented care. “Sometimes you don’t need long-term therapy,” Connell explained. “Something happens and you just need a reset, you need a place to come so that you can talk through whatever challenges you’re having.”
Related Topics:
