In collaboration with Vaya Health, ACHD began a behavioral health program.  A grant from The Duke Endowment was pursued and obtained to begin the program.  After initial policy/procedure development and credentialing in 2019, the program was ready to see patients in 2020; however, it was placed on hold due to requirements of Covid-19 response.  The program opened to patients in early 2021 before again being placed on hold due to the departure of our licensed clinical social worker in the fall. In April of 2023 a new Licensed Clinical Social Worker was hired. We are currently funded by general county funds. This program is available to all people in Alexander County who need Behavioral Health Services 

The behavioral health program at ACHD provides non-crisis individual therapy for children, adolescents and adults as well as comprehensive clinical assessments and family therapy. 

It is designed to increase access to care in a community that is medically underserved, including for behavioral and mental health care.  Services are billed on a sliding scale based on income. Medicaid, NC Health Choice, and private pay are accepted in the program in order to help patients obtain more affordable care.

Early 2024 saw a significant increase in patient numbers and program utilization until September, when the LCSW departed & the program was put on hold. ACHD is currently looking to hire a new Licensed Behavioral Health Specialist for the program.