A community facility designed for mental and behavioral healthcare
Located in the progressive college town of Lawrence, Kansas, the Treatment and Recovery Center (TRC) is a new facility type aimed at filling the gap between hospitals and detention facilities for people experiencing mental health or substance abuse disorders.

Mental healthcare is a nationwide concern in the United States, often made more difficult to access in communities lacking nearby institutions designed to support mental and behavioral health. As a result, hospital emergency departments and law enforcement facilities can become overwhelmed while lacking the ability to fully assist those needing support. When neither of these facilities is ideal for those in crisis, this Lawrence community found a way to fill the gap with a facility specifically designed for mental health and addiction treatment.

The power of extensive community collaboration
The TRC is the result of collaboration among Douglas County officials, the Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center, the Lawrence Memorial Health hospital (LMH), the Lawrence Police Department, and Lawrence community members. Coming together, we were able to have open dialogue about the needs for the project, services already existing in the community, areas lacking support, and understanding of the role each organization plays.

The TRC is operated by Bert Nash, which provides dedicated medical and clinical staff and facilitates communication with law enforcement personnel. Doctors, medications, and facility maintenance are also provided by the Office of Mental Health. Patients have access to specialized behavioral health professionals such as mental health professionals, peer support specialists, behavioral health technicians, licensed addiction staff, case manager, and psychiatric professionals.

Law enforcement collaboration involves a new intake process perspective dedicated to the determination of what individuals most need when meeting an officer. If determined that the TRC is the best place for them to be, they have access to a separate intake space entrance at the facility where they can undergo screening procedures. This helps reduce what could be a stressful experience for those experiencing a mental health crisis and considering self-admitting at the main entry. After intake, the team initiates a warm hand-off between law enforcement and clinical staff, and the patient enters a welcoming soft interview space different from a typical jail booking area.

How design supports patients in their recovery journey
The design of the TRC focuses on trauma-informed design, which places attention on how natural daylighting, soothing finishes, textures, and seating arrangements can help reduce anxiety, benefit the well-being of patients and staff, and improve the overall space environment. Flexibility also allows the TRC to adapt to various services and potential expansion needs in the future. Architectural elements like large windows, wooden doors, and natural finishes help foster a comforting, homelike environment.

For those struggling with mental health or addiction, the first step to seeking help can be difficult to take. Providing an encouraging, comforting, and normative entrance experience is critical to help the patient feel secure and confident in their choice to self-admit. Spaces throughout the TRC cater to both social interaction and individual solitude, aligning with patient preferences. A tranquil landscaped outdoor space boasts adaptable furnishings, weather-resistant turf, and discreet white netting that preserves unobstructed views of surrounding nature.

A blueprint for future crisis intervention centers
The TRC sets a standard for quality care at the nexus of mental healthcare and law enforcement. With public involvement, community collaboration, and a strong foundation of needs and understanding, other communities can benefit from viewing this facility as a blueprint to apply solutions that fit their specific needs. The TRC is not just a building for Douglas County residents, but a symbol of hope and healing, recognizing that mental health and substance abuse disorders are taken seriously and met with compassionate support. For years to come, it will help foster a safer, healthier community.