Healthfirst Network Opens New Location in Wausau

Friday, May 3rd, 2024 -- 8:00 AM

(Chris Conley, WSAU and WAOW) Providers all across the area are struggling to keep up with the demand for mental health resources.

According to Chris Conley with WSAU and WAOW, Wausau-based Healthfirst Network saw that need, and decided to do something about it. In September, they broke ground on a new mental health clinic. Thursday they cut the ribbon and officially opened it.

CEO Jessica Scharfenberg said the work of the clinic actually started months ago, even before they had the walls up. Since then, they’ve served nearly 30 people, and have recently hired another counselor so they can help more. In total, they’ll have the capacity for five counselors at their Wausau location.

The brand new wing features five counseling offices, a group counseling area, and a mural done by the non-profit Rise Up Central Wisconsin. Scharfenberg said they plan to expand their mental health mission to all eight Wisconsin locations.

If you need help, call 800-246-5743. The National Suicide Lifeline is 988.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.