For More Information Contact:
Colleen Pillus
845-486-2000
Email: cpillus@dutchessny.gov
Poughkeepsie… May is Mental Health Month in Dutchess County and the Department of Mental Hygiene has announced plans to continue public outreach for the formulation of their local service plans. There will are two upcoming public forums. The first public forum will focus on the service needs of children with emotional disturbance and/or chemical dependency. The second forum will be on the service needs adults with mental illness. Both forums will be held at the Dutchess County Mental Health Center at 230 North Road in Poughkeepsie and are open to all Dutchess County residents.
Children and Youth Public Forum
Monday, May 6 from 4-6 p.m.
Dutchess County Mental Health Center (Room A1)
Adults with Mental Illness Public Forum
Tuesday, May 7 from 4-6 p.m
Dutchess County Mental Health Center (Multi-Purpose Room)
Dutchess County Commissioner of Mental Hygiene, Dr. Kenneth M. Glatt, encourages consumers, family members, service providers and all interested citizens to come to the forums and speak about their concerns as well as share suggestions and/or experiences regarding the topics under discussion. Residents can give their input on the programs and services needed for the successful treatment of children and for effective prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of people that are served by the Dutchess County Department of Mental Hygiene.
According to Dr. Glatt, “Dutchess County is home to a large number of individuals who need acute care in one or more of the many programs the Department offers. All of our services are available, accessible and affordable. The Department and its contract agencies serve over 20,000 residents each year. Over the years, the Department has remained steadfast in our commitment to improving the lives of the mentally disabled persons who live here, and these forums afford the community an opportunity to be heard. Citizen input is an important part of our planning process so that we can help children and adults in need of care live successfully in Dutchess County.”
Moderating the Children and Youth session will be Linda Monkman, LCSW, Children’s Services Coordinator for the Department. Ms. Monkman also serves as the Staff Liaison to the Children and Youth Subcommittee. The Adult Mental Health Services forum will be moderated by Margaret Hirst, LCSW, Chief of the Department’s Division of Clinical Services and Staff Liaison to the Mental Health Subcommittee. Membership to these Subcommittees is open to residents of Dutchess County, subject to appointment by the Mental Hygiene Board with the approval of the Commissioner. For further information, please call (845) 486-2766. Residents can also provide comments online at www.dutchessny.gov
