Mental Health Center

About the Claxton-Hepburn Mental Health Center
The Mental Health Center (MHC) is a 28-bed acute care, inpatient psychiatric unit. The Center is certified by the New York State Office of Mental Health and is authorized to accept voluntary, involuntary, and emergency adult admissions. Additionally, the Center offers outpatient psychiatric services and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Working together to make life better
We provide a safe and comfortable environment where confidentiality and privacy are maintained. Our goal is to assist each individual in returning to the community as soon as possible with increased self-confidence and coping abilities.

How do I access the Mental Health Center?  

Referral to the MHC may be made by a psychiatrist, primary care physician, family members, friends, social workers, law enforcement agencies, schools, or by the patient themselves.

What should I expect as a patient on the MHC? 

Once admitted to the MHC, the treatment team will evaluate the patient to determine diagnosis, treatment interventions, and discharge planning. The evaluation includes:

• psychiatric assessment 
• physical examination 
• nursing assessment 
• social history 
• family involvement 
• collaboration with community providers 

Who is part of the treatment team and what do they do? 

The treatment team includes:

• A personal psychiatrist who focuses upon the total treatment needs, including diagnosis, medication, treatment team planning, and discharge. 
• A treatment coordinator who is a registered social worker or registered nurse. The treatment coordinator conducts individual and group therapy and ensures that each patient is receiving the services they need from admission to discharge. 
• A psychoeducational coordinator who provides each patient with opportunities to explore their potential through social, physical, educational, and creative outlets. These include a full range of education programs in addition to exercise, arts & crafts, stress management, and relaxation techniques. 
• Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and mental health workers are available 24 hours a day to assist patients. 

What is my financial responsibility? 

Mental health services are covered by most medical insurance including Medicare and Medicaid. The MHC will not deny access to services based upon ability to pay.

For more information:

Kim McKnight, Director
Mental Health Center
315-713-5212