Bert Nash Center Achieves Full Three-Year CARF Accreditation

We are proud to announce that the Bert Nash Center (BNC) has again earned CARF International's highest level of accreditation. This full, three-year accreditation for BNC is the result of the second consecutive survey cycle. CARF provides voluntary accreditation and certification worldwide for health and human service providers, including agencies offering behavioral health programs, and awarded BNC with our first accreditation in 2022.

Following a rigorous three-day on-site survey that evaluated more than 1,600 standards and criteria, CARF notified BNC on July 22, 2026 that it successfully earned the full three-year accreditation. This achievement reflects the ongoing commitment of providing high-quality, person-centered care and services to the individuals and families served.

"This is very exciting news and highlights all the work our teams are doing every day to provide the highest quality care for our clients," said Dr. Kirsten Watkins, BNC’s Chief Executive Officer. "Achieving full accreditation after such a comprehensive review is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of every member of our organization."

The survey report included powerful feedback from clients, caregivers, and community stakeholders, who described services received at BNC as "transformative" and "life-changing." The report noted that clients feel accepted, valued, and recognized as individuals, and described treatment team members as people who work with them, alongside them, and on their behalf.

CARF surveyors also recognized the extraordinary commitment of BNC staff, stating:

"Personnel are engaging, responsive to the needs of clients, and take pride in their work. They demonstrate dedication, accountability, and competence in their roles while collaborating effectively across departments to support continuity of care, operational effectiveness, and positive outcomes for clients."

In addition, the report highlighted BNC's strategic vision and commitment to long-term impact:

"The organization demonstrates an intentional and forward-thinking approach to long-term sustainability and community impact. Rather than focusing solely on immediate operational demands, the organization utilizes stakeholder input, organizational data, lessons learned, and evolving community needs to inform decisions related to service delivery, infrastructure, workforce development, partnerships, and resource allocation."

“This achievement belongs to every member of the Bert Nash team. Thank you for your dedication to our clients, our community, and our mission. Because of your commitment, Bert Nash continues to deliver compassionate, high-quality care that transforms lives every day.” said Dr. Watkins.

While earning the full three-year accreditation is a tremendous accomplishment, it also serves as a roadmap for continued excellence. CARF provided several recommendations to further strengthen BNC’s programs, processes, and outcomes.

“Achieving accreditation is not the end of the journey. It is confirmation that we are on the right path and a commitment to continually improve the services we provide to our community,” said Amy Finkeldei, Senior Director of Quality Assurance.”

Over the coming months, the BNC’s CARF champions, leadership team, and all team members will work together to develop and implement a comprehensive Quality Improvement Plan.