The Well will expand services in Norfolk following state certification

Norfolk, Neb. – The Well, aimed to be a fixture in Northeast Nebraska for over three decades, has announced its official certification by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ behavioral health division.

The certification marks a significant step in the organization's mission to deliver accessible behavioral health services to individuals and families across Norfolk and Northeast Nebraska.

For nearly 35 years, The Well has been a resource, providing support to those navigating behavioral health disorders. Dana Wockenfuss, Director of Development and Advocacy at The Well, emphasized the organization's comprehensive approach: "We provide mental health and substance use disorder treatment, ranging from residential long-term care to peer and community support services."

With the certification as a Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), The Well, under the guidance of Executive Director Donny Larson, is set to broaden its crisis response services. Plans include the addition of assertive community treatment (ACT) programming, targeted case management, and an expansion of open access services.

Alli Aschoff, Director of CCBHC and Outpatient Services at The Well, highlighted the importance of open access: "It's a walk-in clinic where individuals can receive same-day services without referrals or extensive paperwork. We meet with you, provide the necessary service, and offer immediate assistance."

The staff at The Well underscored their commitment to providing hope and inspiration to those in need.

Executive Director Donny Larson noted, "Our goal is to reach people before they reach a crisis point... to help someone in that moment, to keep them from needing ongoing services."

Wockenfuss added, "Regardless of how many times people walk through our doors, we are always here to support them in their journey to wellness." Aschoff affirmed this sentiment: "We aren't going to give up on you. If you've burned every bridge, that's okay. Come on in, and we'll help you."

According to officials from the newly certified community behavioral health clinic, the integrated care model has demonstrated impressive outcomes, including a 40.7 percent reduction in homelessness, a 60.3 percent decrease in time spent in jails, and a 72 percent reduction in hospitalizations among individuals receiving care.