North Country Community Mental Health

North Country CMH Coordinating Transition Planning Due to Bergmann Center Closure

Trenton Lee — Thu, 07 May 2026 14:44:32 +0000

Bergmann Center has notified North Country Community Mental Health (NCCMH) that it is terminating its contract and will permanently close its programs effective May 16, 2026. Contract termination was initiated by Bergmann Center and was accepted by North Country Community Mental Health.

NCCMH recognizes that this news comes during a time when there has also been significant public discussion and disagreement. The organization understands that this combination of events may feel upsetting, confusing, or overwhelming for many community members and families. The organization wants to state clearly that NCCMH has acted in good faith and followed all requirements for public funds. Of particular concern is the assertion by Bergmann Center that NCCMH has not passed through the required wage rate to Bergmann Center. The minimum hourly wage rate to be paid to providers was clarified in a memo from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) dated February 6, 2026. This memorandum clearly states that providers must be funded at a minimum of $17.13 per hour. This amount includes the direct care wage pass through and minimum wage effective January 1, 2026. In short, NCCMH has always paid to Bergmann Center the state required wage rate and direct care pass through amount. Further, the books and records of NCCMH are regularly reviewed through regulatory audits and oversight as a public agency. In the last year alone, NCCMH has successfully undergone reviews by Northern Michigan Regional Entity, MDHHS, CARF accreditation, the recipient rights system, independent financial and compliance audits.

At this time, continuity of services is NCCMH’s highest priority. Staff have been actively coordinating transition planning to ensure that services continue smoothly after Bergmann Center’s closure. This includes:

Identifying appropriate service provider options within the NCCMH provider network.
Ensuring provider staffing capacity to meet the need of affected individuals.
Referring individuals to qualified providers that can meet their needs.
Supporting choice, dignity, and individualized planning throughout the transition.
Taking steps to preserve existing social connections and peer groups whenever possible.

NCCMH has identified local providers who are preparing for and excited to welcome individuals and groups transitioning from Bergmann Center and who offer community-based services in North Country’s service area. These providers have significant experience delivering community living services (CLS), and they are willing to expand their service arrays to match those offered through the Bergmann Center.

The NCCMH provider network includes contracted day program providers in other counties, and NCCMH staff would also be happy to make referrals to those that are accepting new clients. There is also an option for service delivery called Self-Determination which allows an individual to hire and manage their own staff and budget. Affected families are encouraged to review options carefully.

NCCMH knows that the relationships and routines developed at Bergmann Center are meaningful. Maintaining social bonds, familiar peers, and community connections is an important part of emotional well‑being, and NCCMH is prioritizing this with providers in planning next steps.

Case Managers are currently reaching out to families directly to begin individualized conversations, answer questions, and help plan transitions that align with each person’s needs, preferences, and Individual Plan Of Service (IPOS) goals.

Individuals will not be left without services; however, there may be a delay while NCCMH coordinates referrals with providers. Additionally, there is limited capacity while the providers actively recruit new staff. NCCMH’s goal is to minimize interruptions as much as possible, but an official notification called an Adverse Benefit Determination (ABD) has been issued as services are likely to be reduced or suspended for a period during the transition.

The organization thanks everyone involved for their trust and patience during this period of change. This transition is significant, and NCCMH staff are here to support affected individuals every step of the way.

North Country Community Mental Health provides services to residents of Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Kalkaska and Otsego Counties experiencing a serious mental illness, severe emotional problem, or intellectual/developmental disability, including individuals with co-occurring substance use disorder. Persons wishing to know more about North Country Community Mental Health are encouraged to visit norcocmh.org or to access services call 877-470-7130. The 24-hour crisis number is 877-470-4668. To reach Customer Services, call 877-470-3195.

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May is Mental Health Month Activities

Trenton Lee — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:20:50 +0000

An array of family-friendly events across Northern Michigan

North Country Community Mental Health (NCCMH) is announcing May is Mental Health Month. “More Good Days Together” is this year’s theme for Mental Health America and North Country’s May is Mental Health Month activities. The theme is designed to communicate that wellness is not achieved through a single change or action but rather, it’s built on intentional, consistent practices that can lead to more good days.

“Mental Health is essential to everyone’s overall health and well-being, and mental illnesses are common and treatable,” said Brian Babbitt, NCCMH Chief Executive Officer.

“Mental health is personal, and what works for someone else may not work for you. Many factors that affect our health are beyond our control. Even when we can’t change everything, noticing what we can influence is important for our well-being. Whether it’s finding ways to move that you enjoy, connecting with your community, or remembering to drink water – small wins matter. Explore different practices and treatments to find what best fits your unique needs.”

“In May, we will host various events and initiatives to raise awareness, encourage self-care, and connect people with resources,” said Babbitt. “The path may look different for everyone, but we all deserve more good days, together.”

NCCMH has planned the following activities during the month of May:

Saturday, May 30, 2026 – 26^th Annual Splash of Color Fun Run & Visibility Walk for Mental Health Awareness beginning at the Festival Place Shelter (200 Wachtel) in Petoskey. The Fun Run and Visibility Walk will have colorful paint throw checkpoints. The run will begin at 10:00 a.m. and the walk at 10:30 a.m. All proceeds from the event are donated to the North Country CMH Client Special Needs Fund, helping clients achieve their treatment goals. There will be door prizes, giveaways, and fun “Splash of Color” paint throws! Cost is $15 per person. Everyone who registers will receive a prize drawing ticket. Register at eventbrite.com or https://tinyurl.com/nccmhsplash2026. Register by May 8 to guarantee a t-shirt. You can also register the morning of the event from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. at the Petoskey Festival Place Shelter.

May 4-31 – Art Display in Charlevoix – At Charlevoix Public Library (220 West Clinton Street), view artwork created by members of New Horizons Clubhouse and Petoskey Clubhouse.

“More Good Days Together” Virtual Wellness Series – During the lunch hour, for 30 minutes (12:15-12:45 PM), NCCMH will provide three free virtual wellness programs on a variety of mental health/well-being topics. Register for one or all of the sessions using this link: https://tinyurl.com/mptbbkdr.

The More Good Days Together topics are as follows:

May 18, Mind & Body Working Together to Move through the World with Ease: Learn about the foundations of the practice of Pilates with Lynn Wolf, owner of Original Work Studio. Accessible to everyone, participants will explore the coordination of brain and body and what it means to move through the day with ease.
May 19, How to Keep Your Devices Safe: Information Technology Specialists will share advice and tips on how to keep your electronic devices safe. From scam text messages to phishing sites, this talk will go over the basics of staying safe in our online world.
May 21, Making Connections and the World Outside: Connection is protection. When people support one another through connection, it reduces stress. When people connect with nature, there are neuroprotective benefits that increase cognitive and mental health wellbeing. A professional mental health clinician will lead this session.

Free Community Movies – At 1 PM both on Tuesday, May 26 at the Petoskey Friendship Center (1322 Anderson Rd, Petoskey), and Wednesday, May 27 at the Brutus Friendship Center (6436 E Brutus Rd, Brutus), there will be a free viewing of the movie, The Penguin Lessons. This movie is about a disillusioned English teacher in 1970s Argentina who finds purpose after rescuing an orphaned penguin, which he brings to his school, becoming an unlikely catalyst for change amidst political turmoil. It explores themes of compassion and resilience, with the penguin’s presence positively impacting students and staff during a period of unrest. At both locations there will also be a short presentation by NCCMH’s OBRA/Older Adult Services program staff on mental health and aging after the movie.

NMRE Day of Education – The Northern Michigan Regional Entity is inviting beneficiaries of NMRE Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Services to a full day of educational sessions at Treetops Resort (3962 Wilkinson Rd., Gaylord) on Friday, May 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This is a free conference which includes a light continental breakfast and lunch. Limited spaces available. Register at Eventbrite or https://tinyurl.com/22a7krjs.

Mental Health America is also sponsoring a two-hour virtual wellness experience on May 20 from 12:00 to 2:00 PM. Join for guided chair yoga, reflective journaling, and calming breathwork activities that support both mind and body. This event will also offer insights into how lifestyle choices — like what we eat and how we structure our time — impact our emotional well-being. Registration is required, using this link: https://tinyurl.com/45n7setk.

22nd Annual Walk A Mile In My Shoes Rally – Save the date for Wednesday, September 23, 2026, when mental health advocates from around the state gather at the State Capitol in Lansing to enhance public awareness and educate legislators about why mental health matters; end stigma related to intellectual/developmental disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorders; and promote mental health and wellness.

NCCMH provides services to residents of Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Kalkaska, and Otsego Counties experiencing a serious mental illness, severe emotional problem, or intellectual/developmental disability, including individuals with co-occurring substance use disorder. Persons wishing to know more about NCCMH are encouraged to visit norcocmh.org or to access services call 877-470-7130.

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26th Annual Splash of Color Fun Run & Visibility Walk

Trenton Lee — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:20:04 +0000

Register by May 8th to Guarantee a T-Shirt

Join North Country Community Mental Health in Petoskey for the 26th Annual Splash of Color Fun Run & Visibility Walk for Mental Health Awareness. The Fun Run course goes along the Bear River with colorful checkpoints! There will simultaneously be a Visibility Walk for Mental Health Awareness for anyone not running. All proceeds from the event are donated to our Client Special Needs Fund, helping our clients achieve their treatment goals!

1 in 4 adults live with a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year (source: Johns Hopkins).

Join NCCMH in raising awareness for mental health services in our community. More details to come.

When: Saturday, May 30th at 10am (Registration for Fun Run starts at 9am).

Where: Festival Park in Petoskey (Registration located at Festival Place Shelter).

Registration costs $15 per person for a T-Shirt.

Registration includes an event T-Shirt and a chance to win door prizes!
To guarantee a t-shirt, please register not later than May 8th.
Coffee and snacks will be provided.

Questions? Call Trenton Lee at 231-758-9228

Refund Policy: Refunds will only be issued if the event is cancelled.

Register Here

DOWNLOAD FLYER HERE

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NCCMH offering FREE Mental Health First Aid Classes!

Trenton Lee — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:12:23 +0000

NCCMH offering FREE Mental Health First Aid Classes!

February 6 is the first class

North Country Community Mental Health (NCCMH) announced its 2026 free online Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training schedule for the community.

MHFA is an evidence-based, early-intervention course used around the world which is designed for people with little to no knowledge of mental health issues, and is a beneficial tool for employers, human resource professionals, faith-based leaders, first responders, community groups, teachers, coaches, and others.

Mental health problems covered in the course include substance abuse, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Crisis situations covered in the course include suicidal behavior, overdoses, panic attacks, reactions to traumatic events, and psychotic episodes.

The adult MHFA course will be offered virtually by NCCMH clinicians on three dates in 2026: February 6, May 1, and August 14. The eight-hour course will be held on Zoom from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM.

Initially funded with a grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, NCCMH is continuing to provide this benefit to the community at no charge to residents of NCCMH’s six-county service area (Antrim, Cheboygan, Charlevoix, Emmet, Kalkaska, and Otsego) in order to increase knowledge of mental health issues among community members and increase their abilities to help others.

Register and find more information at norcocmh.org/mental-health-first-aid, or call 231-439-1288 or email ProviderTraining@norcocmh.org.

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North Country CMH Sponsors 11th Annual Autism Acceptance Walk

Trenton Lee — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 16:29:38 +0000

April is Autism Acceptance Month: 1 in 31 children in the United States are diagnosed with Autism

Register by April 3rd to guarantee a T-Shirt.

(Boyne City, Michigan) North Country Community Mental Health (NCCMH) is sponsoring its 11th Annual Autism Acceptance Walk on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Boyne City. On-site registration begins at 9:00 a.m. and the walk begins at 10:00 a.m. (approximately a half mile in length). Registration fee is $12. All participants will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win one of many great prizes including gift cards and special give-aways. Must be present to win.

All Autistic individuals, family, friends, and the community are invited to join together to walk in support of Autism awareness.

The event organizer, Dr. Christine Dillon, NCCMH Director of Children and Family Services, noted, “We continue to see many returning participants and families, and welcome new people every year. The outpouring of support from our communities for this event continues to exceed the expectations we had when we began this event a decade ago.”

Dillon added, “It is incredible to live in northern Michigan and experience people from all over the state coming together to support one another.”

According to Dr. Dillon, “Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that can cause differences in social, communication, and behavior skills and can affect everyone differently. Providing neuroaffirming care is essential in working with Autistic youth and their families. Neuroaffirming care includes respecting an individual’s strengths, valuing each person’s uniqueness, building therapeutic connection, and providing individualized supports.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that ASD affects 1 in 31 children. (Source: https://www.cdc.gov/autism/data-research/index.html)

Research shows that early intervention treatment services may improve a child’s development and help them learn important skills. Early intervention services may include occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy to support the child’s developmental milestones. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one support that is considered an evidence-based best practice treatment by the U.S. Surgeon General and by the American Psychological Association.

For more information about the Autism Acceptance Walk or to register, contact Dr. Christine Dillon at (231) 347-9605, ext 3606, or cdillon@norcocmh.org, or visit Event Brite at https://tinyurl.com/mrxmnm2v to access the registration form and information.

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NCCMH Receives Full CARF Accreditation

Trenton Lee — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 15:32:04 +0000

North Country Community Mental Health (NCCMH) received notice that we were awarded another Three-Year Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) after their site visit October 22-24, 2025. This is the seventh three-year accreditation the international accrediting body has awarded to NCCMH.

This accreditation outcome represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization and shows the organization’s substantial conformance to the standards established by CARF.

“I am very pleased with the excellent results of the CARF survey and proud of the team of talented professionals delivering quality services to our community,” said Brian Babbitt, NCCMH Chief Executive Officer. “What stood out to me during the exit interview is the recognition by all three seasoned surveyors of the strength of the team, their dedication, the teamwork, the positive attitudes, and the focus on those we serve. The high quality of our services reflects the high caliber of people who choose to make their lifelong career here.”

The report noted many areas of strength, with multiple references to the dedication, compassion, and strong, positive attitude of staff and staff commitment to the people they serve. Especially noted was the diverse, multigenerational nature of the staff, with many team members having been with the agency for ten to thirty years, providing stability and institutional knowledge, as well as the fresh perspectives and diverse skill sets of newer employees who, together, strengthen the organization’s capacity and innovation. Surveyors noted a strong sense of camaraderie, support, compassion, and unity with one another.

Also especially noted were NCCMH’s commitment to clinical excellence: a culture of continuous learning, professional growth, and best practices integration; and a culture where exceptional care is both expected and achieved.

The report noted strong collaborative relationships with community resources in its immediate and surrounding counties which makes for a comprehensive network of support for its clients. Additionally, NCCMH was recognized as a strong team player within the region, sharing tools, databases, and system processes with external partners to strengthen the broader system. The leadership team was noted as including experienced professionals with extensive tenure in the organization and the behavioral health system, positioning them to provide informed direction and sound decision making for the agency.

Programs surveyed were Assertive Community Treatment, Case Management/Services Coordination, Community Integration, Crisis Intervention, and Outpatient Treatment.

An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable and of the highest quality.

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North Country CMH Named Mentally Healthy Workplace

Trenton Lee — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 17:19:39 +0000

North Country Community Mental Health (NCCMH) has received the Platinum Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health —the highest certification level possible for workplace mental health— by Mental Health America. Only a handful of companies nationwide have achieved this designation.

Mental Health America is the nation’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and promoting the overall mental health of all.

According to Jennifer Nolan, NCCMH Human Resource Manager, the designation was not easy to achieve. “The process involved an in-depth application and several hours of compiling details about our workplace processes, including our policies, workplace flexibilities, Wellness Committee activities, and strategies to promote mental health awareness, education, and resources among all staff.”

Brian Babbitt, NCCMH CEO, said this achievement is particularly important for the North Country organization. “As a healthcare facility which serves people with mental health issues, it is especially critical for us to provide a mentally healthy workplace for our own staff. Our staff is our most valuable—and valued—resource, and we are committed to supporting and retaining our people. One of our strategic goals is to be recognized as an employer of choice and that has been demonstrated by the number of staff who stay with our agency for ten, twenty, and even thirty years.”

“Achieving Bell Seal Platinum certification affirms the commitment and mission of our Wellness Committee, which is ‘Our staffs’ wellness is our well-being’. As a behavioral health organization, we place a high value on our own staffs’ mental health and are gratified to receive this recognition,” Babbitt added.

Nolan noted that only 2 in 5 employers meet the Bell Seal standards at any level and the Platinum level achieved is the highest available. “The NCCMH’s overall score was 92%, which is an extremely high score. We scored 95% in Caring Beyond Compliance, 100% in Holistic Wellness at Work, 93% in Supportive Workplace Culture, and 79% in Mental Health Benefits,” Nolan said.

NCCMH will be honored at the Mental Health America national conference in Washington, D.C., on October 16-17.

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Competitive Procurement: Big changes coming to Michigan’s public mental health system

Trenton Lee — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:35:06 +0000

On February 28, 2025, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced plans to shift how they contract for behavioral health services across the state. Through a new competitive procurement process, MDHHS will begin accepting bids for its Pre-Paid Inpatient Health Plan (PIHP) contracts—an overhaul that could dramatically alter how Michiganders’ access mental health and developmental disability services.

What Is Competitive Procurement?

In a competitive procurement system, the state solicits bids from organizations to win contracts for delivering public services—in this case, behavioral health care. While this may sound efficient in theory, past experiences with similar approaches have raised serious concerns.

Competitive procurement often results in out-of-state, for-profit companies winning contracts over trusted, local, community-based systems. These shifts threaten the public management model that has ensured Michigan’s mental health system remains grounded in the needs of local communities.

Why It Matters

As highlighted by the Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHA) in the graphic below, competitive procurement could:

Introduce funding instability and deepen service cuts.
Disrupt continuity of care and create confusion for people relying on critical mental health and disability services.
Shift decision-making from local communities to private, bureaucratic entities with no direct ties to Michigan residents.

There’s a Better Way

Rather than racing into a risky and disruptive bidding process, Michigan should focus on proven strategies to improve access and quality of care, such as:

🧠 Ensuring sufficient funding after years of flat budgets amid rising costs.
🗣️ Protecting local input and public accountability.
🧑‍⚕️ Expanding the behavioral health workforce to reduce waiting times and meet growing demand.
📉 Reducing administrative overhead to keep more funding directly in services.

Michigan’s public mental health system has served communities for decades, with a structure rooted in transparency, local accountability, and care—not profit. Competitive procurement threatens to upend that system.

Take Action

CMHA is urging residents, providers, and advocates to get informed and speak up. Public input is being collected—make your voice heard before decisions are made that could permanently change how care is delivered across our state.

🔗 Learn more and join the movement to protect Michigan’s public mental health system at cmham.org/advocacy/take-action-now

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North Country Community Mental Health 2024 Annual Report

Trenton Lee — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 19:25:49 +0000

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Important DD v. MDHHS Update

Trenton Lee — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:55:22 +0000

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has received preliminary court approval for the settlement of litigation alleging that medically necessary intensive home and community-based services were not timely provided to Medicaid-eligible children and youth as required by Medicaid’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) provisions. This litigation is known as DD v. MDHHS; formerly known as KB v. MDHHS.

The Class Action Notice, which outlines a summary of the settlement’s terms, as well as the full Agreement, can be found on the MDHHS website. Class members include all Medicaid-eligible beneficiaries under the age of 21 in the State of Michigan for whom a licensed practitioner of the healing arts acting within the scope of practice under state law has determined, through an assessment, that intensive home and community-based services are needed to correct or ameliorate their emotional, behavioral, or psychiatric condition.

As a recipient of this communication, MDHHS requests that you take appropriate action to share the Class Action Notice and full Agreement on your organization’s website; with your provider networks, if applicable based on your agency; and via any other venue determined appropriate to notify potential class members and other persons who may be interested in the outcomes of the settlement.

MDHHS is happy to schedule an informational session, as requested, to address questions about the impact of this settlement.

Questions or requests for an informational session can be directed to MDHHS-BCCHPS-Questions@michigan.gov.

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