Greater Nashua Mental Health recently became New Hampshire's first certified community behavioral health clinic. Courtesy photo

NASHUA – Greater Nashua Mental Health achieved a significant milestone being named the state’s first certified community behavioral health clinic by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.

“What an exciting time to be part of the mental health system in New Hampshire as it transforms into a system that is more valued and accessible to everyone,” said Dr. Cynthia Whitaker, president and CEO of GNMH. “We are honored to be recognized as New Hampshire’s first CCBHC and remain committed to providing exceptional behavioral health services to our community and within all our programs, including in our newest program for veterans and armed forces members who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

To be eligible for this certification, GNMH created a team for the purpose of serving veterans and those who are currently in the military.

The effort was spearheaded by Alicia Somers, coordinator of Veterans Services at GNMH. She is also a founding member of the Stronger Together Veterans Coalition of Greater Nashua.

Working in concert with the Manchester Veterans Administration, GNMH was able to “develop effective workflows and enhance service delivery.” Those services include 24/7 crisis intervention, primary care screening, targeted case management as well as outpatient mental health and substance use services.

“This is an honor and a privilege to be considered a center of mental health excellence and we appreciate the support and collaboration of our community partners and NH DHHS,” said Sheila Considine Sweeney, senior director of Strategic Initiatives.