Monmouth Medical Center (MMC) in Long Branch has officially ushered in a new era of mental health support for the Shore area, hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony to dedicate its newly remodeled Center for Behavioral Wellness at Pollak.
The renovation transforms the facility into a warm, “healing space” designed to reduce the stigma of seeking help while expanding the reach of evidence-based psychiatric care for adults in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
The Center, a collaborative effort between RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, serves adults ages 18 and older. The redesign focuses on creating an environment that feels respectful and welcoming from the moment a patient walks through the doors.
“To create a healing space, it’s important to offer an environment of care that is warm, welcoming, and respectful,” Marli Gelfand, assistant vice president of Behavioral Health Services at MMC said. “We are so grateful for this inviting new space that makes our patients feel welcome as soon as they enter.”
The renovation isn’t just cosmetic; it paves the way for critical new programming tailored to younger populations. Jenna McCook, Outpatient Director of Behavioral Health Services, announced the launch of a Young Adult Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP).
Specifically designed for individuals ages 18–25, the program fills a vital gap for those needing more support than traditional weekly therapy but who do not require inpatient hospitalization. Highlights of the new programming include:
- Evidence-Based Care: Utilization of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
- Comprehensive Support: A mix of group settings, individual therapy, and psychiatric assessments.
- Future Expansion: Plans are already underway to introduce a similar Adolescent IOP for ages 13–17 in early 2027.
The significance of the facility’s upgrade was highlighted by the presence of state and local leaders. New Jersey Senator Vin Gopal, along with Assemblywomen Margie Donlon and Luanne Peterpaul, presented a Joint Legislative Resolution in support of the Center’s mission.
“Access to quality mental health care will always be a priority for our team,” Senator Gopal shared following the event, praising the Center for its “important work.”
Local dignitaries, including Long Branch Mayor John Pallone and MMC President and CEO Eric Carney, joined hospital leadership for the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
Adding a touch of inspiration to the facility, the MMC Foundation unveiled the “Path to Wellness Donor Wall.” According to Lauren Simons, Director of Development, the wall serves as a visual reminder that recovery is a continuous journey of hope and healing.
The Center for Behavioral Wellness adds to Monmouth Medical Center’s extensive portfolio of accolades, including its status as a Magnet-recognized hospital and a Leapfrog Top Teaching Hospital.
