Des Moines, IA (PRWEB) September 20, 2014 -- Orchard Place, mental health experts for Iowa’s children, has just released its annual Report Card detailing mission,programs, number of children and families serves as well as new statistics regarding at risk youth.
“Orchard Place has seen a significant increase in the number of youth and families served in our programs: a total of 9,830 youth compared to 7,845 youth in 2013, a 25% increase,” said Orchard Place Chief Executive Officer Anne Starr.
Starr says there are multiple contributing factors connected to the increased demand for mental health services including:
• A recent National Institute of Mental Health report shows the prevalence of emotional and behavioral disorders in youth is on the rise. 46% of youth will experience some form of emotional disturbance in their childhood, with 21% of all youth experiencing a severe disturbance during childhood. Emotional and behavioral disorders present significant health risks for Iowa’s children.
• In central Iowa, there are many organizations increasing awareness of children’s emotional disorders and reduce the stigma of those who seek mental health treatment. More children with needs are being identified and their families are seeking treatment.
• Orchard Place has expanded services and developed new programming to improve access to timely mental health care for children and their families including the new Integrated Health Program, expansion of school-based therapy services and expanded outreach in Latino communities.
In addition, a recent survey conducted by Orchard Place provided positive results about the quality of services provided:
91% agreed with the statement “I am satisfied with the services I received.”
93% agreed with “I felt comfortable calling with questions and concerns.”
92% agreed with “I received services that were helpful.”
95% agreed with “Staff provided a safe environment.”
94% agreed with “I was treated with respect.”
We are extremely proud of the statistics that show that Orchard Place is making a difference in the state of Iowa,” added Starr. “We also salute the courageous children and families who take that difficult step to seek services and overcome barriers to achieve an improved quality of life.”
About Orchard Place:
Orchard Place is the oldest locally-based charity in Des Moines providing mental health treatment and expertise for Iowa’s kids. Our inpatient, outpatient and community programs serve nearly 10,000 children from birth to age 22 annually. Four operating divisions work under the Orchard Place umbrella of services: Child Guidance Center, Orchard Place Campus, PACE Juvenile Center and the Integrated Health Program. More information can be found at http://www.orchardplace.org
Craig Olson, Orchard Place, http://www.orchardplace.org, +1 515-868-0194, [email protected]
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