Valeo Behavioral Health Care History
Valeo Behavioral Health Care is the designated mental health authority for public mental health services in Shawnee County since 1967. We are a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. Our organization was established as a result of the Community Mental Health Center Act in the 1960's through the efforts of interested community leaders including Dr. Roy Menninger. Formerly Shawnee Community Mental Health Center, we changed our name to Valeo Behavioral Health Care in 2001. "Valeo" is Latin, meaning "to be well".
The initial purpose of our center was to apply for federal mental health grants. We were an administrative entity with direct services provided through affiliates. One of our first services offered was the 24 Hour Crisis Hotline utilizing volunteers. Today Valeo employs around 370 staff including nurses, psychiatrists, social workers, and substance abuse counselors, making us a preferred service provider for care. In 2001 Menninger Clinic transitioned their Community Residence Program to Valeo, which we still today operate as a separate corporation.
Today Valeo provides comprehensive mental health and recovery services for adults. Mental illnesses are biologically based brain disorders. Valeo believes that the right combination of medication and therapy can lead to recovery. Our staff shares a recovery philosophy, and work from a client strengths perspective. We support Evidence Based Practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and are currently involved with the University of Kansas and Dartmouth, providing Supported Employment, Supported Education, and Integrated Dual Diagnosis research information.
Valeo is governed by a twelve member Board of Directors. We are licensed by the State as a Community Mental Health Center. We are the only mental health center in Kansas that is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (C.A.R.F.). Valeo Behavioral Health Care does not deny services due to inability to pay. We offer a sliding fee schedule.