In a recent government meeting, officials voted unanimously to receive a presentation from Rosecrans Addiction and Mental Health Services, highlighting the organization's expanded services following the closure of FHN Family Counseling. The motion passed with a 12-0 vote, reflecting strong support for the initiative.
Jamie Ditto, overseeing the Rosecrans Freeport Clinic, detailed the comprehensive behavioral health services now available, including adult and adolescent substance use treatment, mental health counseling, and a mobile crisis response team. The clinic has seen a significant increase in demand, quadrupling its client base in just one month after FHN's closure, with over 800 clients connected to services since then.
Ditto emphasized the clinic's commitment to accessibility, noting that there is currently no waitlist for any service line. The organization has also integrated support for individuals in the local jail, providing assessments via phone to facilitate care.
In response to inquiries about potential inpatient services in Stevenson County, Ditto confirmed that while the idea was discussed, the decision was made not to pursue it at this time, with patients currently needing to travel to Rockford for inpatient care.
The meeting underscored the critical role of Rosecrans in addressing mental health and substance use needs in the community, particularly in light of recent service changes.