Maniilaq opens wellness and mental health center in Kotzebue

A wellness and mental health center opened in Kotzebue this summer to offer residents help with mental health and substance use needs

Maniilaq Association held a grand opening for the Maniilaq Behavioral Health Wellness Center on July 24. The center offers mental health and substance use assessments to determine the clients’ needs, provide them with treatment recommendations and connect them to care outside the region when necessary, Maniilaq staff said.

“The new wellness building will house the Behavioral Health team, offering a range of programs and services to support emotional, psychological, and social well-being,” Maniilaq staff said in a social media post.

Residents of all ages can access therapy services in the new center, as well as have walk-in individual grief counseling every Monday afternoon without the need for paperwork, Maniilaq staff said. The staff also hosts learning sessions on coping strategies, anxiety and anger management.

Additional services include medication management with a psychiatrist and comprehensive case management to connect residents with resources for employment and life transitions.

“These services are designed to cater to children, teens and adults, ensuring holistic support for the entire community,” Maniilaq staff said.

Residents can also access outpatient substance use treatment through the center.

The Alaska Alcohol Safety Action Program provides substance abuse screening, case management and assistance for alcohol or drug-related cases.

“Community-based substance use recovery groups meet weekly and are open to all community members,” Maniilaq staff said.

The new center is located at 346 A Tundra Way.

Services are accessible in person, by phone, or over Zoom, Maniilaq staff said.

“Our client-centered care approach ensures that services are 100% voluntary and treatment is considered complete when you achieve your personal goals,” Maniilaq said in the post.