State Senator Cristina Castro announced a local mental health center has been selected to participate in a federal program aimed at expanding and improving access to coordinated mental health care and substance use treatment.

“The Ecker Center provides essential services to members of our community – serving as a source of recovery and hope during challenging times,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The infusion of additional federal dollars through this competitive program will mean greater access to mental and behavioral health services for individuals and families throughout the Northwest Suburbs.”

The Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Demonstration Program provides reimbursement through Medicaid for the full cost of services that CCBHCs provide – at higher rates than what they previously received for Medicaid customers. This program is estimated to bring an additional $150 million into Illinois’ behavioral health system. CCBHCs provide access to a range of services and care coordination through evidence-based practices and other supports based on a community needs assessment. This includes crisis services that are available 24/7. CCBHCs are also required to provide routine outpatient care within 10 business days.

The Ecker Center for Behavioral Health, located in Elgin, was one of 19 mental health centers across Illinois selected as an awardee.

Crisis support is always available by calling or texting 988, or via chat at 988lifeline.org. To connect with mental health support, visit FindSupport.gov. Locate treatment providers by visiting FindTreatment.gov or calling 800-662-4357 (Spanish option available).