MORE: First phase complete of YWCA Dayton $17M renovation
They are also looking to grow the program by building relationships with other mental health providers in the area so that they can receive referrals from outside clients and as well as make referrals to other providers.
Lindsay Bohan, lead case manager, said YWCA clients might want to receive care but feel unsafe leaving the shelter, have lapsed Medicaid coverage or face other barriers.
Having behavioral health services in-house breaks down those barriers and the care is paid for by Medicaid, which all of their shelter clients either have or qualify for.
“It’s been critical that we’ve had it in-house,” Bohan said.
Case manager Shannon Hanf said the staff work with clients who have other significant needs besides mental health on their minds, after losing their home and trying to figure out how to take care of their family.
“So whenever they’re ready, whether it’s when they first come in the doors or a month down the line, we’re able to address that need in that moment,” Hanf said.
MORE: ‘Kids coming to school with more trauma:’ Here’s what local schools are doing
About the Author