The Behavioral Health & Wellness Center at Children’s Nebraska will open to the public Wednesday, January 7th. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place the day prior.
The $114 million center is “nationally distinctive and the first facility in the region to provide the full spectrum of mental health services to meet the growing needs of children and adolescents in Nebraska and beyond,” according to a Children’s Nebraska press release.
The 4-story, 107,250 sq. ft. building sits on seven acres at 85th & West Dodge Road. The main entrance, for both patients and staff, is on the east side. The building is located on the western edge of Children’s campus.
The center ensures pediatric patients can access essential care when they need it. Any child up to 19 years old can be seen on a walk-in basis no matter the level of crisis they are experiencing with no referral needed.
The facility includes a 24/7 crisis assessment center; 40 single-occupancy, private inpatient beds; two distinct partial hospitalization programs; outpatient services and a primary care office.
Built in partnership with the Mental Health Innovation Foundation led by community leader and philanthropist Ken Stinson, the Behavioral Health & Wellness Center is the result of robust community support, according to a press release.
The $114 million budget included $16 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding from the State of Nebraska and another $15 million from Children’s Nebraska. The remaining funds came from other donors.
The Behavioral Health & Wellness Center includes several features designed to promote healing and comfort:
• Healing Design: Calming colors, nature-inspired graphics, soft lighting and acoustic materials create a soothing atmosphere.
• Natural Light & Outdoor Spaces: Floor-to-ceiling windows and a therapeutic courtyard with walking paths and mindfulness nooks connect children to nature.
• Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Specialized rooms, like a calming room and movement room, support emotional regulation and physical activity.
• Family-Centered Care: Private consult rooms ensure families are active partners in the treatment process.
Photo by Brad Williams
