McCall Behavioral Health Opens First Primary Care Center in Waterbury, Addressing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Needs
McCall Behavioral Health Network opened its first primary care center in Waterbury. The center will offer primary care services such as preventative care, vaccinations, and health screenings. It will also feature an adolescent services program.
Maria Coutant Skinner, president and CEO, emphasized that the center will address both primary care and mental health needs for individuals and families. The adolescent program includes individual, family, and group therapy, along with psychiatric services and an intensive outpatient program.
Joy Pendola, chief clinical officer, highlighted the need for early intervention for youth facing issues like anxiety and loneliness. She noted that today’s young people face challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and social media. The center’s services are designed to connect with youths effectively.
What services does the McCall Behavioral Health Network provide for adolescents in Waterbury?
Interview with Maria Coutant Skinner and Joy Pendola of McCall Behavioral Health Network: A New Era of Care in Waterbury
News Directory 3 (ND3): We’re here with Maria Coutant Skinner, president and CEO, and Joy Pendola, chief clinical officer, of McCall Behavioral Health Network, which recently opened its first primary care centre in Waterbury. Thank you both for joining us today.
Maria Coutant Skinner (MCS): Thank you for having us.
Joy Pendola (JP): It’s a pleasure to be here.
ND3: Maria, can you tell us about the vision behind the new primary care centre in Waterbury?
MCS: Absolutely. Our vision is to create a holistic health environment where both physical and mental health needs are addressed under one roof. By integrating primary care with behavioral health services, we aim to provide comprehensive care for individuals and families. This centre will not only offer preventative care, vaccinations, and health screenings but will also focus on mental health, particularly for adolescents.
ND3: Speaking of adolescents, Joy, could you elaborate on the adolescent services program?
JP: Certainly. Our adolescent program is designed to cater to the unique challenges that today’s youth face. We offer individual, family, and group therapy, alongside psychiatric services. This includes an intensive outpatient program that specifically aims to intervene early for issues like anxiety and loneliness—challenges that have escalated for many due to the pandemic and the pervasive influence of social media.
ND3: Maria, you’ve mentioned that the centre is committed to serving everyone, regardless of their insurance status. Can you explain how this is operationalized?
MCS: We believe that access to health care is a fundamental right. Our centre accepts all types of health insurance, and we have provisions in place to ensure that no one is turned away due to an inability to pay. Our staff is trained to assist individuals in navigating their insurance options and connecting them with the services they need.
ND3: Joy, what specific needs do you see in young people today that you hope to address through this centre?
JP: Young people today face unprecedented levels of stress and mental health challenges. Early intervention is crucial. We want to provide a supportive environment where they can express their feelings and learn effective coping strategies. Our services are not only about treatment but also about fostering resilience among our youth.
ND3: There has been noticeable support from local leaders, including Congresswoman Jahana Hayes and Senator Richard Blumenthal. How do you feel this political backing influences your work?
MCS: We are grateful for the support from our local leaders. Their recognition of the mental health crisis facing young people emphasizes the importance of our services. It helps raise awareness about our centre and encourages the community to seek the help they deserve. With their support, we hope to create a significant positive impact in Waterbury.
ND3: what message would you like to convey to the Waterbury community about the new centre?
MCS: We want the community to know that we’re here for them. Whether it’s physical health needs or mental health support, we’re committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for everyone. Your health matters, and we’re ready to support you on your journey to well-being.
JP: Absolutely. We encourage families and individuals to reach out, ask questions, and utilize the resources we offer. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our youth and the community as a whole.
ND3: Thank you, Maria and Joy, for sharing your insights with us today. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of the McCall Behavioral Health Network’s new centre in Waterbury.
The center is committed to serving everyone, irrespective of their insurance status. Coutant Skinner stated that they accept all types of health insurance and ensure that no one is turned away due to inability to pay.
Congresswoman Jahana Hayes praised the center for its potential to support families in Waterbury. Senator Richard Blumenthal called attention to the ongoing mental health crisis among young people and stressed the importance of such centers in providing necessary support.