News & Notes

Exciting progress continues on the Judge Jean Shepherd Youth Recovery Center, bringing our community closer to a dedicated place for children and teens experiencing a behavioral health crisis.

A Bert Nash Center client reflects on the help they received during an incredibly challenging period of their life. With the help of their case manager, Don, they were able to heal and are pursuing a graduate degree in social work.

Jennifer reflects on her own experience receiving services from Bert Nash as a child—and how that experience shaped her decision to turn to Bert Nash when her daughter needed mental health support. Knowing firsthand the compassionate care they provide, Jennifer knew it was the right place for her family.

Dana Osborn, managing partner of The Basil Leaf Café, shares her personal mental health journey, including what led her to seek support at Bert Nash Center and how that experience continues to shape the way she gives back to her community. From asking for help to finding ways to help others, Dana’s story is a powerful reminder that reaching out for support can be an important step toward healing.

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 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.

Gerald and Shawnte It really does take a village. Take the case of Gerald, a Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center client, for...

July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, which was designated in 2008. This year’s theme is “Better Health Through Better...

The goal of Dave’s Dream was to raise the funds to create and sustain a permanent Mental Health First Aid instructor position. Julia...

I love helping families navigate the difficulties of life. Seeing them discover their own strengths, build confidence, and learn how to...

With everything she has been through, Jacquie has learned an important lesson. To advocate for herself and those she loves. “It’s...

My name is Anna Palermo and I have had the privilege of working on the Bert Nash Adult Outpatient Therapy Team since November 2021. My...

My journey into mental health started in 2001 when I was a freshman at KU trying to figure out what I wanted to study. I knew I wanted to...

For Phoenix, it’s a matter of trust. “I didn’t trust people, that was my thing before,” she said. But at the Bert Nash Center, she has...

It was about three years ago when I was dropped off at the Lawrence Community Shelter with nothing but the clothes on my back. I had no...

Note: The names for this story have been changed. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, seeking emotional support, or feeling suicidal, call or text 988 or call the Kansas Suicide Prevention HQ direct counseling line at 785-841-2345. Every day for a year, Ann’s son wanted to die. “Literally, for one year, every day, he talked about how terrible everything was, that he didn’t deserve to be alive, and that he wanted to kill himself,” Ann said. “For a year, he was like

If someone is struggling with their mental health, reaching out for help is a brave decision. But it’s only the first step. There are...