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.

In a recent featured interview with  Mountain Lake PBS,  BHSN CEO Katherine Cook shared the deeply personal journey that led her to lead one of the North Country’s most vital behavioral health organizations. From her rural roots to her extensive experience across New England, Katherine’s story is a testament to the power of community and the belief that no one should have to navigate their wellness journey alone.     A Legacy of Connection    Katherine’s commitment to service began long before her executive career. Growing up in rural Ohio, she watched her parents “minister to souls” through simple acts of community, bringing meals to neighbors, and volunteering at the local fire department. This foundation of connection became the north star of her career.     Her professional path was forged during the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis in the late 1980s. Volunteering at an AIDS service organization, she learned the profound impact of simply “sitting alongside” those who were ostracized and listening to their stories. This experience solidified her mission: to ensure that silence never equals death and that every individual has a place where they belong.   Leading an Expanding Regional Force    Since joining BHSN, Katherine has overseen a period of significant community support and regional expansion.     A Massive Team : BHSN boasts a team of over 600 dedicated professionals.  Regional Reach:  While rooted in Plattsburgh, BHSN’s footprint now covers Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Warren, and Washington countries, with school-based clinics extending into Saratoga County.  Diverse Support:  With over 25 programs, BHSN provides a full continuum of care, including mobile crisis intervention, domestic violence support (STOP), and Therapeutic Foster Care.     The Vision: Collaboration Over Competition    Katherine’s philosophy is built on the lessons of her mentor, Ken J., who taught her that a mental health agency must be part of the “fabric of the community.” She envisions a North Country where service organizations work collectively rather than competitively to meet the region’s needs.     As BHSN continues to expand, Katherine’s message remains simple but transformative: “Connection is care.” At the heart of healing is the act of slowing down, listening, and truly seeing one another.     Watch the full interview here:

Recovery is more than just overcoming a challenge. It’s building a life you love. We are thrilled to share that Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a major investment in the future of New Yorkers in recovery, and Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) has been selected as a key partner in this life-changing initiative.     With nearly $3 million in combined funding specifically for our North Country and Capital Region operations, BHSN is set to expand our vocational rehabilitation efforts, helping individuals transition from treatment to stable, fulfilling careers.     Why Employment Matters in Recovery    Research has shown that a job is much more than a paycheck. For someone navigating the journey of recovery from addiction, stable employment provides:    Structure and Purpose : A reason to get up and a place to belong to every day.   Financial Independence: The ability to provide for oneself and family.  Social Connections: A healthy community of colleagues that helps prevent the isolation that often leads to relapse.     Strengthening Our Team to Support Yours    This funding, provided through the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), allows BHSN to hire and retain dedicated Substance Clinicians, Certified Recovery Peer Advocates, and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors. These specialists will work one-on-one with individuals we serve to:    Identify personal skills and career interests.   Provide hands-on job training and placement support.   Bridge the gap between clinical treatment and the local workforce.    “Governor Hochul continues to demonstrate her commitment to growing and strengthening recovery services in the North Country, the Capital Region, and across this entire state,” said Katherine Cook, President and CEO of BHSN. “This funding will allow BHSN to invest in and retain service providers who directly support our communities, while delivering lifesaving and lifechanging programs and services to those in recovery. Employment opportunities that provide fulfillment, structure, and financial independence are key to success in recovery, and we look forward to uplifting our communities with this support from the state.”     Looking Toward a Brighter Future     At BHSN, we believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and success. This initiative reinforces our commitment to treating the “whole person,” ensuring that once the initial steps of recovery are taken, the path to a stable and prosperous future is clear and supported.     Whether you are looking for support in your own recovery journey or are an employer looking to strengthen your workforce with resilient, motivated individuals, BHSN is here to help.

Nothing beats employees coming together for a great cause.   There is a unique kind of energy that fills a room when neighbors come together for a common cause. Recently, that energy was felt across the North Country and Capital Region as BHSN hosted two incredibly successful blood drives at our Centers for Wellbeing in Plattsburgh and Queensbury.      We are thrilled to share that through the collective generosity of our staff and neighbors, a total of 32 units of blood were collected across both events.     At BHSN, our mission is built on the pillars of Safety, Belonging, and Purpose. There is perhaps no greater way to fulfill that purpose than by providing the literal “gift of life” to those in our community facing their most critical moments.     From Morrisonville to Queensbury: A Community Effort    We are still buzzing from the success of our drive at the Morrisonville Clinic. A huge thank you to the staff at the UVM Health Network – CVPH Adirondack Regional Blood Center for their expertise and commitment. They made the experience seamless and rewarding for every donor, ensuring our local hospitals have the vital resources they need right here at home.     The momentum continued south at our Center for Wellbeing in Queensbury. Partnering with the American Red Cross, we were honored to provide a space for our neighbors to give back in a life-changing way. Every pint collected is proof of the compassion of our staff and the residents of the Capital Region.  All smiles for our staff donating blood at our Queensbury location.  Why It Matters    In our ongoing work, we recognize that health is not just about clinical appointments but about fostering a culture of wellness and mutual support. Whether it was a first-time donor or a regular gallon-club member, seeing our community unite reminds us of the incredible impact we can make when we work together.     Didn’t Get a Chance to Donate?    If you missed these events, don’t worry! The need for blood is constant, and our commitment to hosting these drives is just as steady.     Stay tuned to our social media pages for announcements on our next scheduled drives. We can’t wait to see you there, rolling up your sleeves to support the North Country and Capital Region.

February has been a whirlwind, but at BHSN, we know that the heart of our mission is our people.     This month, we hit “pause” on our busy schedules to prioritize what matters most: our health and well-being. We are thrilled to celebrate the success of our First Annual Employee Wellness Fair, hosted across our Queensbury and Plattsburgh locations.     Strengthening our Team, Onsite and Remote   One of the most rewarding aspects of the fair was seeing our community come together. Whether they work in our onsite clinics or provide vital care via telehealth, our staff stepped away from their screens and offices to connect in person. It was a powerful reminder that while we serve our community in different ways, we are one team dedicated to elevating well-being.    Interactive Learning & “Passport” Fun  The energy at both the Queensbury Training Room and the Plattsburgh Center for Wellbeing was electric. Staff explored a variety of interactive stations designed to provide practical, everyday health hacks:    Nutritional Fuel: Learning to “Build-a-Bowl" for sustained energy, while diving into the science of gut health. Staff explored the benefits of prebiotics and probiotics to support digestion and boost the immune system.   Movement & Mindfulness: Engaging in yoga, breathwork, and quick mobility resets to combat the workday slump.   Health Milestones: Checking in on blood pressure and setting personalized wellness goals.  Bio-Hacking Health: Discovering the science of hydration and how to boost “happy chemicals” naturally.  Pause ‘N Play: Taking a much-needed break for fun and games to spark creativity and connection.   The Power of Gratitude: Reflecting on positive moments and sharing appreciation for our colleagues.       Cultivating a Culture of Care  At BHSN, we believe that an investment in employee wellness is an investment in the quality of care we provide to our community. When we take the time to refuel and reset, we can show up even stronger for the individuals and families who rely on us.     Thank you to everyone who made our first annual employee wellness fair a resounding success!     Watch the highlights here:

President and CEO Katherine Cook Photo Credit to Strictly Business In 2025, leadership was not just about navigating change but about strengthening internal systems, being nimble and planning for the future.     Recently, our President and CEO Katherine Cook joined regional leaders at the 36 th  Annual Strictly Business Forum to discuss the evolving landscape of the North Country. Amid political uncertainty and workforce shifts, the message from Table Four was clear: Resilience is built through Integrity   and Connection.     A Year of Measured Growth and Stability    Under Katherine’s leadership, 2025 was defined by stronger organizational alignment and meeting critical financial targets. “Our systems became more stable, our workforce more supported, and our internal culture more cohesive,” Katherine shared during the forum. This focus on internal systems has led to significant staff retention, allowing BHSN to be a leader in employment in the region.     Transforming the Rural Model    When asked about the single most exciting opportunity for our region, Katherine’s vision was ambitious: positioning the North Country as a national model for rural, integrated, community-based care.     By partnering with local anchors like CVPH, SUNY, and the Plattsburgh Housing Authority, BHSN is moving beyond “siloed” efforts to a shared vision for the region. We are tackling the social determinants of health (like housing and childcare) to ensure that behavioral health care is accessible to everyone, regardless of their zip code.     The BHSN Legacy: 150 Years and Beyond    Katherine noted, BHSN is has been a pillar of community support, a 150-year-old institution that is “not going anywhere.” We are building a future-ready system where our employees and the people we serve find safety, belonging, and purpose. As we lead with integrity and thrive through connection, we invite our community to join us in this vision.     Want to read more about Katherine’s thoughts on federal policy, workforce housing, and the future of the North Country?  Read the full “Guiding Growth: Business, Policy, and Opportunity” article by Strictly Business NY here .

BHSN is excited to announce the opening of our new Adult and Youth Crisis Residence. This project, 5 years in the making had its opening ceremony this week with representatives from our community partners, local government, law enforcement and more. We are excited about the amazing difference this will make in the lives of our community members struggling with mental health issues. Check out coverage of the event below: NBC5 https://www.mynbc5.com/article/mental-health-crises-residency-plattsburgh/62247626 WCAX https://www.wcax.com/2024/09/17/new-residential-crisis-center-opens-plattsburgh/ WAMC https://www.wamc.org/news/2024-09-19/new-residential-crisis-center-opens-in-plattsburgh

Changing Lives. Strengthening Families. Building Safer Communities. The Personal Accountability Changing Tomorrows (PACT) program at Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) helps individuals take responsibility for their actions, learn new ways of thinking, and build respectful, non-violent relationships. PACT is a batterer intervention and education program that works with people who have used violence or controlling behaviors in relationships. The goal is to promote accountability, challenge harmful beliefs, and increase safety for victims, families, and the broader community. A 36-Week Journey of Change Participants engage in a 36-week curriculum focused on self-reflection, communication, and emotional regulation. Lessons explore respect, empathy, impulse control, and belief systems that contribute to harmful behavior. Through discussion and skill-building, participants learn to replace patterns of power and control with responsibility, respect, and equality. A Proven Path Forward Most individuals are referred through the court system or social services as an alternative to incarceration. The program maintains one of the region’s highest completion rates, and participants rarely re-enter the criminal justice system. Each success represents not just one life changed—but a safer home and community. Breaking Down Barriers Financial hardship can make participation difficult. Thanks to a $10,000 grant from the Clinton County Public Defender’s Office, more individuals can now access this life-changing opportunity. “This partnership with the Public Defender’s Office is essential,” said Julie Canepa, Director of PACT at BHSN. “By removing cost barriers, we can reach more people and strengthen our community’s collective efforts to end the cycle of violence.” Our Commitment BHSN remains dedicated to supporting accountability, promoting respect, and fostering lasting change. Every individual deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a safer tomorrow. Read the Article in the Sun Community News My Champlain Valley ABC22/Fox44 WCAX CBS-3

Behavioral Health Services North announced Dec. 23 the launch of Together Totes, a new community initiative providing essential hygiene and seasonal care items to individuals and families in crisis in the North Country.   The program is supported through grant funding from The Foundation of CVPH. The collaboration hopes to bring much-needed support to our community when it is needed most, according to a press release from BHSN.   The program is expected to reach over 1,000 individuals annually, with at least 500 care packages distributed in its first operational year through local community partners and multiple BHSN-run community programs.   Three deliveries of the totes already took place Dec. 22, 23 and 24 to JCEO, the Interfaith Food Shelf in Plattsburgh and NAMI’s crisis center at MHAB.   Together Totes are filled with toiletries, basic hygiene products and winter essentials, such as hats and gloves. These items will be distributed to BHSN clients experiencing urgent needs, including those fleeing domestic violence, transitioning out of hospitalization or homelessness.   In addition to supporting BHSN programs, Together Totes will be shared with community partners, including JCEO, the Interfaith Food Pantry and other regional service providers, to strengthen collaboration and ensure equitable access to essential items across the community.   “The Foundation of CVPH’s support allows us to meet people at pivotal moments when a small act of care can make a major difference,” Kevin Cooney, marketing director at BHSN, said in the press release.   “Together Totes are about promoting dignity, stability, and wellness by making sure no one goes without the most basic essentials.” Read on the Plattsburgh Press Republican Coverage from WNBC5   Coverage from ABC22/FOX44 https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/video/plattsburgh-together-totes-help-people-get-by/11385207 Assembling and Delivering the Totes

New York recently earned the distinction of being ranked No. 1 in the nation for mental health care, according to Mental Health America’s 2024–2025 State of Mental Health in America report. This recognition is more than just a point of pride. It’s a powerful validation of the work that behavioral health organizations across the state, including ours at Behavioral Health Services North, have committed to every day, expanding access, improving outcomes, and building a stronger, healthier future for all New Yorkers.   This milestone reflects not just policy and funding, but people — our dedicated staff, our community partners and the individuals and families we serve. At BHSN, we’re proud to play a vital role in advancing mental health equity across the North Country and beyond, especially as part of a state that has become a national model for compassionate, comprehensive care.   Over the past five years, BHSN has worked diligently to expand the reach and impact of behavioral health services in northern New York in order to become one of the leading voices in mental health care with tangible results.   As one of just 35 organizations statewide selected to implement the federal Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic model, we’ve dramatically increased access to care.   Since launching our first CCBHC in Morrisonville in 2020, the number of individuals served has grown by over 312%, from 1,702 to over 7,000, in 2025. This year alone, our CCBHCs have delivered nearly 200,000 services, including 24/7 crisis care, rapid access to treatment and targeted support for veterans and underserved populations. These aren’t just numbers, they represent lives stabilized, crises averted and individuals on the path to recovery.   For our children and youth, BHSN’s school-based mental health programs are making an equally powerful impact. During the 2024–2025 school year, we delivered 3,188 interventions, a 33% increase over the previous year. The result? A remarkable 95% of students were able to return to class the same day. Just 0.63% required a higher level of care.   These outcomes speak volumes about how early, on-site support can transform school environments and set young people up for success, not only academically, but emotionally.   To further fill critical service gaps, BHSN opened adult and children’s crisis residences in Plattsburgh — six-bed facilities offering short-term, home-like environments to support stabilization and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations. In less than a year, these programs have already served over 70 individuals. Each day spent in these residences is a day of safety, dignity and healing.   Of course, health and wellness can’t be separated from housing. That’s why BHSN has invested in supportive housing, developing 80 affordable units, including 40 with on-site services through the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative. These homes offer more than shelter, they offer stability, independence and a foundation for lasting recovery.   Beyond clinical care, we remain deeply committed to community engagement, raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting resilience. Through public education campaigns, domestic violence prevention work and wellness events, we aim to make mental health part of everyday conversation.   As we celebrate this moment of recognition for New York, we know our work is far from done. The demand for behavioral health services continues to grow. The challenges from workforce shortages to funding constraints are real, but so is the progress we’re making together. At BHSN, we believe every individual deserves access to the care they need close to home delivered with compassion and respect. We are honored to serve the communities of Northern New York and to contribute to a statewide system that leads the nation in mental health care.   Now is the time to build on this momentum. Let’s continue investing in innovative models, expanding equitable access and lifting up the voices of those with lived experience.   Read the article DCDon the Press Republican Website

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, BHSN is proud to announce a series of events and activities throughout the month of May that highlight the intersection of art and mental health. The events are designed to promote mental well-being, encourage communication, and provide resources to support emotional and psychological health within our community. “Art is more than creativity; it’s a language of emotion. For those who create, it’s a way to process and express what words often can’t capture. For those who engage with it, it’s a reminder that we are not alone in how we feel.” said Katherine Cook, CEO at BHSN. “ Art connects us — and in that connection, we find community, empathy, and healing. During Mental Health Awareness Month, we celebrate the artists, the art, and the shared human experience that brings us together.” Scheduled Activities Include: Kickoff Event: Art in the Myers Lobby Gallery Introduction and Hands-On Art Project with Amber Doreyland, M.A., ATR (materials provided) SUNY Plattsburgh Myers Gallery Lobby Plattsburgh State Art Museum, 101 Broad St. Plattsburgh, NY Thursday, May 1, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Open to the public. Outdoor Garden Sculpture Tour and Meet the Artist John Kokazka Stone Ledge Sculpture Park, 3901 State Route 9, Plattsburgh, NY Friday, May 16, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Open to the public. Closing Event: Juniper Sculpture Park Outdoor Sculpture Walk and Art Exhibit in the Barn 75 Fjord Drive, Plattsburgh, NY Saturday, May 31st, 1:00 -3:00 p.m. Open to the public.

BHSN was featured this week on ABC22 & Fox44 for the start of Mental Health Awareness Month. This month BHSN is focusing on how art can promote better mental health, as well as, advocating for all of us to take more time to address mental health in our communities Be a part of our events this May: Scheduled Activities Include: Kickoff Event: Art in the Myers Lobby Gallery Introduction and Hands-On Art Project with Amber Doreyland, M.A., ATR (materials provided) SUNY Plattsburgh Myers Gallery Lobby Plattsburgh State Art Museum, 101 Broad St. Plattsburgh, NY Thursday, May 1, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Open to the public. Outdoor Garden Sculpture Tour and Meet the Artist John Kokazka Stone Ledge Sculpture Park, 3901 State Route 9, Plattsburgh, NY Friday, May 16, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Open to the public. Closing Event: Juniper Sculpture Park Outdoor Sculpture Walk and Art Exhibit in the Barn 75 Fjord Drive, Plattsburgh, NY Saturday, May 31st, 1:00 -3:00 p.m. Open to the public.