Local mental health assistance

The Chieftain provided an important public service in publishing the (Nov. 16) guest column by Susan Johnson on the priority of mental health. All the services mentioned in the column are available on our doorstep in Wallowa County through just two telephone numbers (no need for the extra step of calling one of the five numbers mentioned to begin a referral).

Wallowa Valley Center for Wellness can deal with mental health crises around the clock at 541-398-1175. Questions can be answered and appointments made at 541-426-4524 during office hours (weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Fridays, when they close at noon). Of course, as the column mentioned, in immediately dangerous situations call 911.

It may surprise some to know that this quiet agency has more than 70 staff and board members working to provide all the services mentioned in the column, and more, to citizens in the county. WVCW has been held up as an example for other counties’ mental health agencies by state and federal examiners. WVCW integrates with medical health, with mental health professionals present in medical facilities and physicians present in WVCW facilities.

We are fortunate to have this outstanding service operating in multiple locations around the county. The main office is at 207 SW First St., Enterprise.

Ed Pitts

Joseph