The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has expanded its outpatient mental health services, nearly tripling visits over the past decade, according to a July 2 announcement. Kristen Carpenter, PhD, chief psychologist and director of Behavioral Health Ambulatory Services and Women’s Behavioral Health at the medical center, has led efforts to recruit more clinicians and introduce new programs for individuals with complex needs.
Carpenter said that while hospital care remains important for some patients, most people receive mental health treatment in an outpatient setting. She has worked to broaden options for both therapy and medication access since joining the medical center in 2013. "She’s also helped launch new services for people with complex needs, including those at risk of suicide, trauma survivors, adults experiencing psychiatric emergencies and new parents facing postpartum depression," according to the statement.
The expansion aims to reduce wait times so that more patients can meet with a therapist within two weeks of seeking help. The medical center reports that this approach is meeting increased demand as depression and other mental health disorders continue to rise.
Ohio State Health and Discovery addresses societal issues such as health equity and substance use; includes hospitals and outpatient facilities as part of its academic medical center; seeks to advance health in Ohio and worldwide through innovations in research, education, patient care and community involvement; extends its efforts globally; offers resources on wellness, research advances and community initiatives; and focuses on healthcare, research, and education—all according to the official website.
Carpenter continues her work as a clinical professor in psychiatry, behavioral health, obstetrics and gynecology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
