FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Danbury, CT) – March 6, 2024 – In observance of Black Balloon Day, McCall Behavioral Health Network announces the expansion of its groundbreaking Open Access program to the Travisano Outpatient Services facility in Danbury. Following its successful launch in Torrington and Waterbury this past February, the program continues to exemplify McCall’s commitment to prompt, comprehensive, and life-saving support for individuals with substance use and mental health disorders.
On March 6th, families and loved ones around the world honor the lives lost to overdose on Black Balloon Day. This poignant day of remembrance stems from the personal loss endured by Diane and Lauren Hurley, who initiated Black Balloon Day in memory of Greg Tremblay, a devoted father of four who lost his life to an overdose at the age of 38. McCall stands in solidarity with the Tremblay family and all individuals affected by addiction, always striving to eradicate barriers to accessing care through initiatives like the new Open Access program in Danbury.
The Open Access initiative is strategically designed to swiftly address the urgent needs of individuals seeking assistance. Under this program, clients can anticipate expedited scheduling for their initial screenings, with the possibility of securing same-day appointments following their initial contact.
Reflecting on the expansion, Maria Coutant Skinner, LCSW, President & CEO of McCall, stated, “At McCall, we are doing everything we can to stem the heartbreaking tide of lives lost to an overdose. The introduction of our Open Access program in Danbury marks another significant milestone in our mission to provide accessible and compassionate care to our communities. By streamlining our services, offering them in multiple languages, and minimizing wait times, we are better equipped to intervene at critical junctures in an individual’s journey toward behavioral wellness.”
Community members are encouraged to initiate contact by calling 860.496.2100, where they will undergo an initial phone screening lasting approximately twenty minutes. Subsequently, they will be promptly informed of the next available Open Access time slot, facilitating a seamless entry into the support system. Individuals are required to present a photo ID and insurance card upon arrival.
McCall’s Open Access hours at Travisano Outpatient Services in Danbury:
- Monday 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Tuesday (Spanish and Portuguese-speaking clients) 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Wednesday 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Friday 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Reflecting on the significance of the initiative, Ms. Coutant Skinner emphasized, “Our commitment to Open Access underscores our unwavering dedication to breaking down barriers to care. By aligning our services with the urgency of Black Balloon Day, we affirm our solidarity with those affected by substance use disorders and pledge to do everything possible to expedite life-saving interventions.”
While emphasizing the accessibility of Open Access, McCall underscores that it is not intended for individuals in extreme mental health crises, who are advised to seek immediate medical attention at hospital emergency rooms.
McCall estimates that the initial visit for a new client will last approximately one and a half to two hours. The comprehensive assessment includes paperwork completion, toxicology screening, and personalized consultations with clinicians to devise tailored treatment plans.
“This initiative epitomizes our commitment to accessible care for all,” Ms. Coutant Skinner concluded, reaffirming McCall’s dedication to removing obstacles hindering individuals’ paths to recovery and well-being.
Click here to learn more about McCall’s Open Access program in Torrington and Waterbury.
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About McCall Behavioral Health Network:
Serving families and individuals of all ages across western Connecticut for 50+ years, McCall Behavioral Health Network is operating proof of the power of connection. We’re a diverse network of experienced, specialized, and highly trained behavioral healthcare professionals. Equally important, we’re passionate and compassionate people who are committed to helping individuals, families and communities access resources, overcome adversity, build resilience, and achieve wellness. A network that heals. A community who cares. That’s McCall Behavioral Health Network. www.mccallbhn.org
Contact:
Marisa Mittelstaedt
Director of Development & Marketing
Mobile: 860.202.4916