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The Bert Nash Center's outpatient services will be closed Monday, May 25 for Memorial Day. If you are in crisis, help is available 24 / 7 / 365.
News & Notes
Douglas County Awards Funding to Expand HIV and Hepatitis Testing Through Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health–Bert Nash Center Partnership
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
Mar 27
Entering 2026 Stronger, Focused, and United
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.
Bert Nash Center
Mar 18
Dr. Kirsten Watkins Named Bert Nash Center CEO: Focused on the Work That Matters
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.
Bert Nash Center
Feb 24
Celebrating Black History Month: Dr. Francis Cecil Sumner
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.
Bert Nash Center
Feb 16
Celebrating Black History Month: Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller
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.
Bert Nash Center
Feb 2
Community partners work together to help get client housed
Gerald and Shawnte It really does take a village. Take the case of Gerald, a Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center client, for...
Bert Nash Center
Aug 23, 2023
July brings awareness to struggles and challenges of minority communities and promotes mental health
July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, which was designated in 2008. This year’s theme is “Better Health Through Better...
Bert Nash Center
Jul 18, 2023
Dave’s Dream became real with creation of Mental Health First Aid instructor position
The goal of Dave’s Dream was to raise the funds to create and sustain a permanent Mental Health First Aid instructor position. Julia...
Bert Nash Center
May 26, 2023
April, Parent Support Specialist: Why I Do What I Do
I love helping families navigate the difficulties of life. Seeing them discover their own strengths, build confidence, and learn how to...
Bert Nash Center
Feb 28, 2023
With The Help Of Her Bert Nash Team, Jacquie Is Not Only Surviving, But Thriving
With everything she has been through, Jacquie has learned an important lesson. To advocate for herself and those she loves. “It’s...
Bert Nash Center
Feb 16, 2023
Anna, Therapist: Why I Do What I Do
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...
Bert Nash Center
Jan 30, 2023
Tricia, Clinical Nursing Manager: Why I Do What I Do
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...
Bert Nash Center
Jan 20, 2023
“I Trust The People At Bert Nash”
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...
Bert Nash Center
Jan 17, 2023
Shauna’s Story
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...
Bert Nash Center
Dec 5, 2022
WRAP Program Saves Lives
Note: The names for this story have been changed. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, seeking emotional support, or feeling...
Bert Nash Center
Sep 14, 2022
Helping To Navigate The System… With Care
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...
Bert Nash Center
Sep 7, 2022
Bert Nash Center Achieves Three-Year National Accreditation
Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center received some big news this week. Amy Finkeldei, BNC Senior Director of Performance and Quality...
Bert Nash Center
Aug 10, 2022
Minority Mental Health Month: Bringing People Together And Building Community
Note: July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Mary Kirkendoll is all about initiating meaningful conversations. Mary Kirkendoll...
Bert Nash Center
Jun 29, 2022
Bert Nash Center Receives Community Behavioral Health Clinic Certification
Becoming a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) is a big deal. Doing it without the benefit of funding through the...
Bert Nash Center
Jun 27, 2022
“Before I Felt So Broken. Now, I Feel More Alive.”
Before I felt so broken, now I feel more alive.
Bert Nash Center
Jan 31, 2022
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Annual Reports
Reflecting on a Year of Resilience: our 2025 Annual Report
In 2025, the Bert Nash Center faced a year of significant challenges as the need for mental health services continued to grow across Douglas County. Even during a time of financial and organizational change, the focus remained the same: making sure individuals and families could continue to access the care and support they needed. With the support of donors, volunteers, community partners, and staff, Bert Nash continued serving nearly 2,500 individuals each month while improv
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