New Mental Health Facility Opens in Waukesha County to Support Community Needs

Mental Health Needs on the Rise

A new mental health outpatient clinic has opened in Waukesha County, making it the third facility in the area within six months, aimed at addressing the growing demand for mental health services. "So, we currently have seven clinicians," explained Kelly Kuehl, clinical director at Ellie Mental Health. As families reach out for help, therapists are eager to assist and provide access to needed resources.

High Demand For Mental Health Services

Waukesha County is facing significant challenges, with waiting lists for therapists extending for months. "Just seeing that there are six-month waiting lists, year-long waiting lists to see someone as simple as an outpatient therapist is incredibly frustrating and unfair," Kuehl emphasized. A report from 2021 revealed that 56% of local high school students experienced anxiety, depression, or thoughts of self-harm, further highlighting the urgent need for accessible mental health support.

Targeting Youth and Families

According to Reese, many referrals have come from families wanting assistance for their children, stating, "A lot of referrals that we are getting are those who want to work with kids." This includes younger children aged five and six, indicating an increasing awareness and demand for mental health support among parents.

Conquering Substance Abuse and Trauma

The rise in mental health facilities, including this new clinic, underscores a broader need for treatment in Waukesha County. Kuehl pointed out that not only families but also individuals combating substance abuse and trauma are contributing to this spike in demand. "As we kind of move out, there are a lot of people who want treatment and you get fewer and fewer practitioners as you move further from Milwaukee," Kuehl noted.