Sawtooth Mountain Clinic Expands Behavioral Health Services Under New Leadership
In a significant development for community health care, the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic (SMC) has broadened its behavioral health services, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the mental health needs of the local population. This initiative has gained momentum following the appointment of Cecilia Bloomquist as the clinic’s new Behavioral Health Director, marking a pivotal moment in the clinic’s ongoing mission to enhance patient care.
Bloomquist, who has recently transitioned from a pattern of commuting between Cook County and the Twin Cities, expressed her enthusiasm for returning to Grand Marais in a full-time capacity. “I’m excited to be back in this community and to contribute to the growth of our behavioral health services,” she stated in an interview with WTIP.
The expansion of services at SMC has been primarily facilitated by grant funding, which has provided the resources necessary to implement various initiatives. According to Bloomquist, this funding has “kick-started” several projects aimed at widening the scope of care available to patients, including new focuses on family services. “We are actively recruiting for a provider specialized in couples and family therapy,” she noted, indicating a strategic effort to enhance the clinic’s offerings for families.
This approach recognizes the importance of tailored behavioral health services that cater to individuals at different life stages. SMC’s services are designed to be inclusive, starting from infancy and extending throughout the lifespan. Bloomquist elaborated on the methodology tailored for very young children; sessions often involve caregivers and are centered on play-based techniques to facilitate emotional skill development within a family context.
In addition to family-oriented services, the clinic is prioritizing the expansion of recovery support for individuals grappling with substance misuse disorders. Bloomquist shared insights into the ongoing evaluation of existing services within Cook County to identify and address gaps in care. “We have a foundation of support in place, but our goal is to enhance those offerings by incorporating peer recovery services,” she explained.
With a current staff of five therapists and an open position to further strengthen the team, SMC is poised to meet the increasing demand for behavioral health services within the community. Bloomquist noted that as the clinic grows and more space becomes available for patients, the community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. “When I commenced my role a few weeks ago, we encountered a substantial waiting list for psychotherapy services, which indicates a clear demand in the area,” she remarked.
The Sawtooth Mountain Clinic’s proactive approach to expanding its behavioral health services underscores its commitment to fostering mental wellness in Grand Marais and surrounding areas. As SMC continues to evolve under Bloomquist’s leadership, it aims to significantly impact the lives of those seeking help and support in their mental health journeys.
