Advocacy in Action: Assemblyman Michael Cashman Tours BHSN’s Center for Well-Being

Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) was honored to host Assemblyman Michael Cashman at our Center for Well-Being in Morrisonville. Beyond a simple tour, the visit served as a critical dialogue between frontline providers and state leadership regarding the shifting landscape of mental health and addiction services in Northern New York.  

Assemblyman Cashman spent time walking our halls, but more importantly, he spent time listening. He sat with our clinicians, engaged with program staff, and heard directly from the individuals we serve – the members of our community who turn to BHSN during their most vulnerable moments.  

Our leadership team shared a sobering reality: the demand for mental health and addiction treatment in Northern New York is reaching unprecedented levels. To put it in perspective, BHSN now serves over 14,000 individuals annually. That is 14,000 neighbors, friends, and family members receiving life-changing support across our rural landscape.  

The conversation was candid. Our staff highlighted the daily mission of improving access to care while navigating the unique geographical hurdles of a rural community. From addressing the opioid crisis to providing a lifeline for those battling depression, the work being done at BHSN is a critical pillar of our region’s safety net.  

Meetings like this are vital. When our representatives in Albany see the reality and hear the stories of resilience from survivors, they are better equipped to champion the policies and funding that keep mental health care at the forefront of the conversation.  

We thank Assemblyman Cashman for his time, his empathy, and his continued partnership in ensuring that the North Country is never left behind in the conversation on mental health and wellness.