LEXINGTON, KY — This May, New Vista is proud to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month while also celebrating a major milestone in expanding access to care: the one-year anniversary of its Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUC).
Observed nationally since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a time to reduce stigma, promote education, and connect individuals to critical resources. The 2026 theme, “More Good Days, Together,” emphasizes the power of connection, community, and accessible support in improving mental well-being.
“At New Vista, we see every day how access to timely, compassionate care can change lives,” said President and CEO Dana Royse. “Mental Health Awareness Month is a reminder that no one should have to navigate challenges alone and that together, we can create more good days for individuals, families, and our communities.”
As part of its commitment to improving access to care, New Vista opened its Behavioral Health Urgent Care in 2025 to provide a walk-in option for adults experiencing urgent mental health needs, without requiring an emergency room visit.
In its first year, BHUC has made a significant impact:
• 655 individuals served
• 2,263 services provided
• 1,045 clinical hours delivered
The BHUC model allows individuals to be seen the same day for a mental health assessment, with rapid connection to follow-up care, including therapy and medication management.
“Behavioral Health Urgent Care fills a critical gap in our system,” said Darcy Miller, LPCC-S, New Vista’s Regional Director of Emergency Response and Client Engagement, “It gives people a place to go before a situation escalates to a crisis requiring hospitalization. We’re helping individuals stay in their communities, connected to the care they need, when they need it most.”
This approach reflects a broader shift in behavioral health, moving away from reactive, crisis-driven care toward proactive, community-based support.
Mental health needs remain significant across Kentucky. Many individuals continue to face barriers such as long wait times, cost concerns, and uncertainty about where to turn for help.
New Vista offers a full continuum of care, including:
• Outpatient therapy and psychiatry
• Substance use recovery services
• Developmental disability supports
• Crisis services, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and
Mobile Crisis Response Team
• Primary Care
• Behavioral Health Urgent Care for same-day access
Throughout May, New Vista encourages community members to:
• Prioritize their mental health and self-care
• Start conversations about mental wellness
• Reach out for support when needed
• Share resources with friends, family, and colleagues
“More good days are possible, and they start with connection,” said Dana. “Whether it’s reaching out for help, checking in on someone you care about, or simply taking time for yourself, every step matters.”
About New Vista
New Vista provides comprehensive services that support mental health, substance use recovery, and developmental disabilities for individuals of all ages. Our mission is to help children, adults, and families thrive by offering compassionate care and resources that promote well-being.
Media Contact:
Abbye Crowe, Public Relations Specialist
cell 859.475.7028
[email protected]