News & Notes

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health (LDCPH), in partnership with Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center (Bert Nash Center), has been awarded $50,0000 from the Dougals County Municipalities Fight Addiction Fund, approved by the Board of County Commissioners on March 18, 2026, to expand access to HIV, Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV) testing for uninsured and underinsured residents in Douglas County.

Bert Nash Center faced a challenging 2025 marked by change and uncertainty but emerged stronger, with improved financial stability and focused services. With support from donors and partners, thousands received care and stability. The Center is now advancing a strategic plan, expanding technology like a patient portal, and prioritizing sustainable growth—remaining committed to accessible, high-quality behavioral health care for the community.

The Treatment & Recovery Center of Douglas County (TRC) provides crisis care as an alternative to ERs and law enforcement, serving over 9,100 episodes. While most clients stabilize, some face repeated crises. To address this, the “C-Cubed” team meets weekly to create personalized solutions for high-risk individuals, tackling barriers like housing and insurance. This approach improves outcomes and supports long-term stability.

Steven Snow survived decades of trauma, addiction, and a near-fatal overdose to find purpose in recovery. Now engaged in Bert Nash Center programs, he has built coping skills, embraced therapy, and begun healing from lifelong abuse. Supported by his care team, he no longer runs from his past but faces it with strength. Inspired by peer specialists, Steven aims to help others, using his story as a source of power and hope.

During Black History Month, we took the time to recognize and celebrate the history, achievements, and lasting impact of Black individuals in our communities and across the country. It was also a time to reflect on the strength, resilience, and leadership that continue to shape a more just and compassionate future.

During Black History Month, we take time to recognize and celebrate the history and lasting impact of Black individuals. We also reflect on the strength, resilience, and leadership that continues to shape a more just and compassionate future. This month we are recognizing the critical role Black mental health professionals have played in expanding access to care. This month we'll share the spotlights on influential Black mental health leaders who have shaped the field.

The Bert Nash Center has officially appointed Dr. Kirsten Watkins as CEO. With more than 20 years of behavioral health experience and eight months as Interim CEO, she becomes just the fourth leader in the organization’s 75-year history, guiding its next chapter of compassionate, community-centered care in Douglas County.

During Black History Month, we take time to recognize and celebrate the history and lasting impact of Black individuals. We also reflect on the strength, resilience, and leadership that continues to shape a more just and compassionate future. This month we are recognizing the critical role Black mental health professionals have played in expanding access to care. This month we'll share the spotlights on influential Black mental health leaders who have shaped the field.

During Black History Month, we take time to recognize and celebrate the history and lasting impact of Black individuals. We also reflect on the strength, resilience, and leadership that continues to shape a more just and compassionate future. This month we are recognizing the critical role Black mental health professionals have played in expanding access to care. This month we'll share the spotlights on influential Black mental health leaders who have shaped the field.

The Bert Nash Center is proud to announce the release of its 2026–2028 Strategic Plan , marking the second cycle of our three-year strategic planning process. Building on the foundation established through our 2022-2025 plan, this new strategy reflects the specific needs, opportunities, and realities of where we are today. This plan charts our path forward. Honoring where we’ve been and strengthening our commitment to excellence and the values that shape how we serve our com

During Black History Month, we take time to recognize and celebrate the history and lasting impact of Black individuals. We also reflect on the strength, resilience, and leadership that continues to shape a more just and compassionate future. This month we are recognizing the critical role Black mental health professionals have played in expanding access to care. This month we'll share the spotlights on influential Black mental health leaders who have shaped the field.

Security Benefit awarded the Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center with a $25,000 grant to support the Judge Jean Shepherd Youth Recovery Center. This new, youth-focused, crisis center is being developed to serve youth and their families by providing 24/7 crisis intervention, short-term stabilization, and outpatient treatment in a single facility.