In an exciting development for the behavioral health sector, four behavioral health providers in Arkansas—Counseling Associates, Mid-South Health Systems, Ozark Guidance, and Professional Counseling Associates—have announced plans to merge and form a unified, integrated behavioral health system. This collaboration will give rise to Arisa Health, a new nonprofit organization that aims to provide comprehensive and innovative behavioral health services across the northern half of Arkansas.
The merger, which is expected to be finalized in early 2020, represents a significant shift in how behavioral health services are delivered in the state. With the financial terms of the deal undisclosed, the new organization will bring together the expertise, experience, and resources of the four participating providers to create a stronger, more efficient, and sustainable system for delivering care to individuals with mental health and substance use challenges.
A Strategic Merger for a Stronger Future
Arisa Health will be headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, and will operate 49 locations across 41 counties in the northern region of the state. The new nonprofit organization is expected to employ nearly 1,300 people, a significant workforce that will ensure its mission is carried out effectively and efficiently. With this merger, the newly formed organization will be able to tap into the combined expertise and resources of Counseling Associates, Mid-South Health Systems, Ozark Guidance, and Professional Counseling Associates.
The merger comes at a time when many health organizations are looking for ways to improve patient care, reduce operational costs, and increase sustainability in an ever-changing healthcare landscape. By joining forces, these organizations aim to not only enhance the quality of behavioral health services in Arkansas but also to create a stronger financial foundation for long-term success.
Ozark Guidance CEO to Lead Arisa Health
Laura Tyler, the current CEO of Ozark Guidance, will be leading Arisa Health when the merger is finalized. Tyler’s extensive experience in the behavioral health sector will be crucial in guiding the new organization as it integrates the operations, staff, and services of the four participating providers.
In a press release announcing the merger, Tyler expressed her enthusiasm about the potential for the newly formed organization to better serve Arkansas residents. “This merging of missions will ensure better outcomes for clients, families, and the communities we serve and allow for greater efficiency in the delivery of behavioral health services,” she said. “Our core commitment is to utilize innovative approaches in the provision of comprehensive, integrated behavioral health care services.”
Tyler’s vision for Arisa Health is one of comprehensive, integrated care. By combining the strengths of Counseling Associates, Mid-South Health Systems, Ozark Guidance, and Professional Counseling Associates, Arisa Health will be able to provide a more robust array of services, from counseling and therapy to substance use disorder treatment and crisis intervention.
The Benefits of Integration: A More Collaborative Approach to Behavioral Health
One of the most significant advantages of this merger is the ability for these previously separate organizations to collaborate more closely and share ideas and resources. Behavioral health providers often face significant challenges when it comes to coordinating care, especially when patients need services that span multiple areas of mental health and wellness.
By merging into a single, unified system, Arisa Health will be able to streamline services, reduce redundancies, and improve the efficiency of care delivery. The integration of these four providers also creates an opportunity for greater collaboration, allowing providers to work together to develop innovative approaches to care that are more tailored to the needs of Arkansas residents.
Another benefit of the merger is the ability to leverage economies of scale. Smaller, independent behavioral health organizations often face financial pressures that make it difficult to offer comprehensive services. By coming together under one umbrella, Arisa Health will have a stronger financial footing, enabling it to invest in new technologies, expand service offerings, and enhance patient care in a more sustainable way.
Expanding Access to Behavioral Health Services
Arkansas has historically faced significant challenges when it comes to access to quality behavioral health care. The state has a rural population, which can make it difficult for individuals in remote areas to access mental health and substance use services. By establishing 49 locations across 41 counties, Arisa Health will be able to increase the accessibility of care, ensuring that more residents across northern Arkansas have access to the services they need.
In addition to expanding geographic access, the merger will also create opportunities for Arisa Health to offer a more comprehensive range of services. Behavioral health encompasses a wide array of needs, including treatment for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, as well as treatment for substance use disorders. The goal of Arisa Health is to provide an integrated approach to care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s behavioral health, ensuring that individuals can receive the support they need in one place.
Fostering a Holistic, Patient-Centered Approach
At the core of Arisa Health’s mission is a commitment to providing patient-centered, holistic care. Behavioral health is not just about treating symptoms—it’s about addressing the whole person, including their mental, emotional, and social well-being. The integration of services from Counseling Associates, Mid-South Health Systems, Ozark Guidance, and Professional Counseling Associates will allow Arisa Health to provide more comprehensive and coordinated care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s needs.
By bringing together providers with a range of expertise, Arisa Health will be able to offer a variety of services, including individual counseling, family therapy, crisis intervention, substance use treatment, and more. This integrated approach ensures that patients are receiving care that is tailored to their specific needs, improving their chances of recovery and long-term success.
