April, 2026
The Opportunity Within Screening Highlights
Impact of Behavioral Health Programs
Mobile Crisis Co-Responders joined Washington County Sheriff’s Office staff on April 9 for a screening of the documentary The Opportunity Within: Addiction Treatment in Jails at the Jackson Theatre.
The film highlights the positive impact of the WCSO Behavioral Health Program within the detention center and the Mobile Crisis Co-Response Program. Together, these initiatives have contributed to a 20% reduction in recidivism arrests in Washington County over the past two years.
Frontier Health and WCSO Crisis Co-Responders have also successfully deflected more than 300 individuals from arrest by connecting them with the appropriate level of behavioral health treatment and support services.
Pictured: Tara Hahner, Ashley Barnes, Sheriff Keith Sexton, Sherri Feathers, Sierra Whitehead, Celeste Taylor
Holston C&Y Celebrates Earth Day and Administrative Professionals Day
Staff at Holston Children & Youth recently came together to celebrate both Earth Day and Administrative Professionals Day with activities focused on appreciation, wellness, and teamwork.
For Earth Day, employees enjoyed a picnic featuring healthy snacks before spending time cleaning up trash around the building to help keep the campus beautiful and promote environmental stewardship.
The team also recognized Administrative Professionals Day by honoring Customer Service Representatives for their hard work and dedication. Each CSR received a personalized gift bag filled with their favorite items, along with lunch from Fazoli’s, as a token of appreciation for all they do to support staff and patients each day.
CLICK IMAGE TO SCROLL
Karrie Mullins-Potter Presents at Hidden Potential Summit
Karrie Mullins-Potter recently presented at the Hidden Potential Summit, Uncovering Creative Strategies to Support Recovery, held April 23 at Emory & Henry University.
Karrie’s presentation, Beyond the Check-In: Creative Ways to Pour into Peers, focused on innovative approaches to peer support, mentorship, and professional growth. The session encouraged peer specialists to build authentic connections and explore creative ways to support individuals in recovery.
A recovery warrior with 19 years of sobriety, Karrie has worked as a Peer Recovery Specialist for 18 years and has spent her entire peer professional career with Frontier Health. She currently serves as the Peer Recovery Specialist Outpatient Team Supervisor for Frontier Health’s Virginia services and was recently appointed to the board of the ASAC Coalition.
Karrie’s lived experience, leadership, and dedication continue to inspire hope and resilience in the individuals and communities she serves.
Hawkins County Staff Participate in Day of Hope Event
Staff from Hawkins County Mental Health joined community members and local faith organizations for the Hawkins County Day of Hope event on March 7 at The Bridge Church.
Hosted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Subcommittee of the Hawkins County Health Council, the event focused on education, recovery, and community support for individuals and families affected by substance use and mental health challenges.
The Day of Hope featured guest speakers, a panel discussion on addiction and recovery, a recovery resource fair, refreshments, and information on how churches can become state-certified recovery congregations.
Frontier Health staff were proud to participate, connect with community members, and share information about services available through Hawkins County Mental Health.
Pictured (left to right): Zach Barnett, Steven Lamb, Samantha Purkey, and Kaylee Murphy.
Frontier Health Expands Virtual Behavioral Health Urgent Care Services
Frontier Health has expanded its Virtual Behavioral Health Urgent Care program to serve individuals across the community, increasing access to timely mental health services throughout the region.
Originally launched in January 2024 as a pilot program for existing clients, the service now offers same-day or next-day intake appointments for eligible individuals seeking behavioral health support. Clients meet virtually with a care coordinator and psychiatric-trained medical provider, with referrals for therapy services available as needed.
The program allows individuals to complete intake paperwork and nursing visits at Frontier Health outpatient medical sites before connecting virtually with the urgent care team. Established clients will continue to have access to care coordination and medication services through the expanded model, including additional availability on Fridays and Saturdays.
Frontier Health Providers Attend Psych Congress NP Institute
Three Frontier Health Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners recently attended the Psych Congress NP Institute in Nashville.
The conference provided opportunities to learn about the latest developments in psychopharmacology while connecting and networking with behavioral health providers from across the country. Staff returned with valuable knowledge and insights to support continued quality care for the individuals and communities served by Frontier Health.