The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities announced on May 13 the opening of a new Behavioral Health Crisis Center in Augusta. The facility, operated by Serenity Behavioral Health Systems, aims to expand access to emergency behavioral health and substance use treatment services across the region.
The opening is part of a statewide effort to strengthen Georgia’s behavioral health system following significant investments from Governor Brian Kemp and the Georgia General Assembly. Nearly $14 million was allocated for construction and $9.4 million for operations at the new center, according to the announcement.
“I want to specifically thank Governor Kemp, along with our House and Senate leadership, for making this facility possible through their continued commitment to strengthening Georgia’s behavioral health system,” said DBHDD Commissioner Kevin Tanner. “This center represents hope for individuals and families experiencing a behavioral health or substance use crisis while also providing critical support to hospitals, law enforcement, and emergency responders throughout the region.”
The new center replaces Serenity’s previous 16-bed Crisis Stabilization Unit that served the community for 17 years with funding support from DBHDD. The updated facility features 24 Crisis Stabilization Unit beds, 16 temporary observation chairs for up to 23 hours each, and can serve up to 40 individuals at once. Services include short-term stabilization, assessment, and treatment for those experiencing crises related to mental health or substance use. Individuals may seek help voluntarily or be referred by law enforcement or healthcare providers; typical stays last three to five days but can extend up to ten days.
Chuck Williamson, CEO of Serenity Behavioral Health Systems said: “We are beyond thrilled to be opening our new BHCC. The community will benefit incredibly from the assistance this will provide to those who might be in a behavioral health or substance abuse crisis. This facility will also relieve the pressure currently faced by law enforcement, the courts and local healthcare facilities. This is a proud day for Serenity, and we are so grateful to the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities and Commissioner Kevin Tanner for the support and funding they provided to build the new BHCC.”
Georgia has invested about $1 billion in mental health services since 2019; during its most recent legislative session alone nearly half a billion dollars was approved specifically for behavioral health initiatives statewide.
State officials say that developing additional crisis centers—including locations in Clayton, Fulton, Laurens, and Richmond counties—is part of an ongoing strategy focused on early intervention as well as long-term recovery.
