Due to "growing need," Rogers Memorial opens state-of-the-art behavioral health center

BROWN DEER (WITI) -- It has been more than two years in the making. Rogers Memorial Hospital has finally opened the doors to a new behavioral health center in Brown Deer. It will serve both children and adults living with a wide range of mental health issues and addiction.

On Sunday, April 26th, Jim Kubicek, the VP of Rogers Memorial Hospital -- Brown Deer finally got to greet the public, as he celebrated the facility's grand opening.

"This is a big day for Rogers. This is a big day for the community at large, for recovery. It's a great day for recovery," Kubicek said.

Rogers Memorial's latest state-of-the-art behavioral health center will provide in-patient care for children ages four through 17 and adults dealing with issues like depression and addiction.

"The opening of 56 more beds in the community that are designed to help people who are in crisis, help people stabilize, help people recover," Kubicek said.

There are two primary wings -- including 28 beds for children and 28 for adults. Inside the 24-hour facility, there are rooms for art therapy, a gymnasium and even a private dining room for visiting families.

"Well you can't recover without having your physical health intact and proper nutrition is part of that -- trying to get three square meals a day and just maintaining a healthy balance," Registered Dietitian Ellen Smith said.

Rogers Memorial Hospital -- Brown Deer has been in the works for more than two years, and the location is, of course, strategic.

"Rogers has been unable to meet the need of all the people who need help for some time, and there is a growing need it appears, so this facility will help meet that need -- especially in this area, which is an under-served area," Rogers Memorial Hospital -- Brown Deer Medical Director Roger Luhn said.