CrossWinds Counseling Opens New 18,000 Sq. Ft. Mental Health Facility in Emporia
CrossWinds Counseling and Wellness Center opened an 18,000 square foot facility at 1519 Merchant St. This opening marks the end of a two and a half year campaign to reduce stigma around mental health services and complete the construction of a permanent location.
Amanda Cunningham, the CEO of CrossWinds, explained that the move aimed to consolidate six existing facilities into one location. This change will improve communication among staff and services. Cunningham stated, “We needed to find a permanent location and something large enough to bring our staff together and help our consumers.”
The campaign “Breaking Stigma, Breaking Ground” raised $5 million for the new building and focused on raising awareness about mental health services. Cunningham emphasized the goal of educating the public about available mental health resources.
The new facility, previously the sorority house for the Chi Omega Chapter, underwent remodeling to accommodate CrossWinds’ needs. The design included a two-story open parlor converted into office space, with architects creating multiple rooms from open areas.
Lucas Moody, Development Director, remarked on the construction team’s generosity in enhancing the facility beyond the original budget. The first floor houses administrative services, conference rooms, and offices for case managers. Adult therapy services are also available here.
The basement features classrooms for group activities aimed at building life skills for adults. It offers access to essential resources like food and hygiene products. The facility includes adjustable lighting to create a sensory-friendly environment.
How does CrossWinds Counseling and Wellness Center plan to reduce stigma around mental health in the community?
That would allow us to better serve our community. The new facility not only provides the space we need to consolidate our services, but it also symbolizes our commitment to prioritize mental health and wellness.”
In our exclusive interview with Amanda Cunningham, we dive deeper into the vision behind CrossWinds Counseling and Wellness Center and its impact on the community.
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you for joining us today, Amanda. Can you share what motivated the decision to open a larger, consolidated facility?
Amanda Cunningham: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The motivation behind this decision was twofold. First, we recognized the need for a larger, more accessible space that could accommodate our growing number of clients. Having multiple facilities often made it challenging for clients to navigate their care, as they had to visit different locations for different services. By consolidating into one 18,000 square-foot facility, we can offer a comprehensive range of services in one place, which ultimately enhances the client experience.
NewsDirectory3.com: In your comments, you mentioned the importance of reducing stigma around mental health. How does this new facility play a role in that initiative?
Amanda Cunningham: The new facility is designed to be inviting and inclusive. We have incorporated community spaces that encourage interaction and collaboration, breaking down the barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking help. By creating a welcoming environment that feels less clinical and more community-oriented, we hope to change the narrative around mental health services. It’s about making people feel comfortable and safe when they come to us.
NewsDirectory3.com: Can you tell us a bit about the services that will be offered in the new center?
Amanda Cunningham: Certainly! We offer a comprehensive range of services including individual therapy, group therapy, family counseling, and wellness programs. The expanded space allows us to introduce new programs like workshops on mindfulness, stress management, and community outreach events that will engage and educate the public about mental health.
NewsDirectory3.com: It sounds like there are exciting things ahead for CrossWinds. What are your hopes for the future now that the new center is open?
Amanda Cunningham: My hope is that this facility will serve as a hub for mental health and wellness in our region. We aim to break down the barriers to access and provide high-quality care for everyone who needs it. In the next few years, I envision us expanding our outreach efforts, forging partnerships with local organizations, and ultimately influencing a broader cultural shift toward embracing mental health services as a vital component of overall health.
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you for your insights, Amanda. It’s clear that CrossWinds is not just about therapy; it’s about transforming lives and community perceptions.
Amanda Cunningham: Thank you! We’re incredibly excited about what’s to come and are dedicated to serving our community with compassion and expertise.
The new CrossWinds Counseling and Wellness Center is now an important step forward in promoting mental wellness and reducing stigma, setting a new standard for care in the local area.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow the ongoing success of this initiative.
Cunningham shared that group classes focus on personal management and social interaction skills. The top floor is primarily for administrative staff, which promotes better communication among teams.
The facility is fully operational but still undergoing minor renovations. An expanded parking lot will add forty more spaces in two weeks. Currently, there is no signage to advertise services.
Cunningham believes that this large facility will raise awareness about mental health issues in Emporia. She stated, “This community believes in its community members, and that mental health is important.”
Child and Adolescent services are available at the Sauder Family Center. CrossWinds also runs a Spanish-speaking center named El Centro on Commercial Street.