The Willow Center for Child Protection & Family Healing has officially opened its doors in Carbondale, Illinois, after relocating from Anna. This redesigned facility aims to provide enhanced medical and mental health services for child victims of abuse, with a greater capacity for patients and staff, as well as support for Southern Illinois University’s behavioral health program.
Key Features of the Willow Center:
- Increased Space: The new facility allows for better service delivery, including more patient evaluations and classes.
- Healing Focus: Officials describe the center as a place that emphasizes holistic healing for children’s mental and physical well-being.
Quotes from Leadership:
Ginger Meyer, the center’s clinical director, emphasized the importance of this move: “By moving to Carbondale, we’re able to expand our services and provide mental health services… to train the next generation of trauma-based professionals.”
Innovative Services:
- The center will utilize play therapy, which Meyer describes as a vital tool to help children express their experiences and emotions.
- Staff aim to create a comfortable environment during medical exams by using “Brave Gowns” and fun decor instead of standard clinical items, ensuring children feel cared for.
Community Partnership:
The Willow Center maintains strong partnerships with various agencies to better support children in Southern Illinois. Meyer stated, “Kids come through us through referral sources…law enforcement, and other members of what we call a multidisciplinary team.”
Future Plans:
With the new facility in operation, the next steps include hiring additional clinicians to optimize service delivery and support families in their healing journeys.
