Bradenton, Fla. — Centerstone, a national leader in behavioral health care, has instructed most of its staff of thousands of therapists, counselors and other professionals to provide services to clients and communities through virtual care – the use of video and telephone – during this Coronavirus pandemic.
“We are going to use all of the technology at our disposal – including telehealth, video and telephone services — to ensure that everyone we serve gets the best access to the best care,” said David Guth, Centerstone CEO. “Centerstone’s mission is delivering care that changes people’s lives, and we take that very seriously.”
Current and new clients in Florida are encouraged to call 941-782-4150 to schedule an appointment. At that time, they can request an in-person session or one delivered via telephone or video.
“In recent days, we have added resources so that we can provide care in the safest and most successful way possible,” Guth said. “We will provide most outpatient services virtually – through telephone and tele-video whenever possible – for our clients’ benefit and in consideration of their health and safety.”
Centerstone Hospital and Addictions Center, located at 2020 26th Avenue East, is fully operational and continues to serve clients with an emergent need for behavioral health treatment. Centerstone Walk-in Center at 379 Sixth Avenue West remains open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Other Centerstone programs continue operating, providing care via video/telephone when possible.
“Now is the time when the community needs support, they need to remain calm,” added Melissa Larkin-Skinner, Regional CEO, Centerstone in Florida. “We know that the work we do provides life-changing and life-saving care to people in crisis which is why we’ll continue to serve our community especially during these challenging times.”
At Centerstone outpatient facilities, the following precautions have been implemented:
• Screening clients, staff and vendors by asking questions about health and recent travel
• Conducting the same screenings during client phone intake interviews
• Increasing the frequency of facility sanitization and posting additional information about handwashing and virus symptoms
• Increasing the amount of hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies available in-house and encouraging increased hygiene protocols, including handwashing
• Prohibiting all visitors until further notice
About Centerstone
Centerstone is a not-for-profit health care organization dedicated to delivering care that changes people’s lives. We provide mental health and substance abuse treatment, education and support to communities in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee and additionally offer individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities life skills development, employment and housing services. Nationally, we have specialized programs for service members, veterans and their loved ones, and develop employee assistance programs for businesses of all sizes. Our research institute improves behavioral healthcare through research and technology, and our foundation secures philanthropic resources to support our work. For more information, visit www.centerstone.org.
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