Friday, May 25, 2012

Easter Seals UCP Opens Adult Mental Health Treatment Services Office for Mecklenburg County

Easter Seals UCP, a leading provider of services for people managing
disabilities and mental health challenges, has just opened an adult
mental health treatment services office to treat mental health issues
in Mecklenburg County. The Easter Seals UCP Assertive Community
Treatment Team (ACTT) will help fill a growing need for services to
help treat adults with severe and persistent mental health
challenges. The new office is located in the University area at 8430
Medical Plaza Drive, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28262.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, mental health
problems affect one in five American families. In Mecklenburg County,
despite growing mental health needs, state funding cuts have caused
many mental health service providers to shutter.

Easter Seals UCP's ACTT is a full spectrum, long-term community-based
treatment model for adults with severe and persistent mental needs
that have not been adequately treated by traditional treatments. The
team consists of a team leader, psychiatrist, nurse, therapist,
vocational specialist, substance abuse specialist and housing
specialist to help manage each individual's treatment plan. The goal
is to help individuals manage their mental health challenges and live
more self-sufficient lives.

This is Easter Seals UCP's first adult mental health service for
Mecklenburg County, but marks their 14th ACTT team in North Carolina
allowing the organization to offer the most complete mental health
coverage across the state.

"Mental health disorders account for four out of ten leading causes of
disability," said Willie Walker, Easter Seals UCP's adult mental
health manager for Mecklenburg County. "ACTT provides a team of
experts approach to address the identified needs of an individual with
persistent mental health issues that require intensive interventions
to remain stable in the community. This sets us apart from other
mental health service providers and improves patient outcomes."

Easter Seals UCP's mental health team will host an open house on
Thursday, May 24th from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. for other mental health
providers to learn more about the nonprofit's services and network
with other mental health service providers. R.S.V.P at (704) 295-4955.

The typical outcomes found in individuals served by Easter Seals UCP's
ACTT are fewer hospitalizations, stable housing, effective medication
management, gains in educational and vocational goals and an improved
support system.

For more information on Easter Seals UCP's ACTT services, visit
EasterSealsUCP.com or call (704) 295-4955.

About Easter Seals UCP North Carolina & Virginia
With programs and services throughout North Carolina and Virginia,
Easter Seals UCP is a lifelong partner to families managing
disabilities and mental health challenges. The nonprofit serves more
than 20,000 individuals and their families annually through an array
of services. Easter Seals UCP enhances the quality of life for
individuals and maximizes their potential for engaging in their
communities. For more information on Easter Seals UCP North Carolina
& Virginia, please visit www.eastersealsucp.com.