(PCM+) May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Grand Mental Health Spotlight

by Chelsea McConnell/ Staff Writer

The following article appeared in the print issue of Ponca City Monthly magazine, which includes hyperlocal stories about Ponca City. Get full access to all online articles, videos, and content by becoming a paid subscriber. We offer free and paid subscription plans. Find rack locations to pick up your free print copy here, or subscribe here to get online access plus exclusive content.

Grand Mental Health (GMH) is Kay County’s hub for mental health support. Led by Clinical Director JacqueLynn Blackwell and Operations Director Samantha Goodno, Grand Mental Health is using a multi-pronged approach to help improve the mental health of citizens all over Kay County. Currently the facility serves over 1,500 clients in Kay County and every client is seen each month. Jacque and Samantha both point out that anyone can walk into GMH Monday through Friday, 8:00 – 5:00. There is no waiting list. If a client doesn’t have insurance, a GMH staff member will walk them through the process of applying for Medicaid or SoonerCare. Samantha stresses that payment “should never be something that holds you back from services. You can walk in today and we'll help you with that.” Jacque underlines the importance of the issue by adding, “Mental health doesn't wait.”