For years, behavioral health was something we all thought was for the fringe of society, but as we live in a more complex world with a better understanding of how we’re made and how the brain works, we realize, behavioral healthcare is vital for all of us. The spaces we touch are not just for some impersonal and stigmatized “them”. These places are for us and those we love and care about. That’s why our approach is not just about architecture. Our commitment to creating environments that promote mental well-being reflects the profound impact thoughtful design can have on individuals and communities.
At Stengel Hill, we’re passionate about creating spaces that foster dignity, support recovery and empower individuals in their unique journeys. As a leading design firm in Behavioral Healthcare, we are proud to contribute to spaces that prioritize healing, well-being, and inclusivity. These facilities require a delicate balance between providing a sense of security and fostering a sense of calm and healing. At Stengel Hill, we understand that patients in these settings often experience heightened sensitivity to their surroundings. Therefore, our designs are rooted in an evidence-based approach, where every decision is informed by research and best practices in the field of behavioral health.
When our team sat down to design this facility, we wanted to create an environment that would support mental and emotional healing. We carefully considered factors such as natural light, and spatial layout to create a space that is calming and conducive to healing. This project consists of a new 96-bed, 72,660sf, 1-story Behavioral Health Hospital constructed as a joint venture between Acadia Healthcare and Geisinger Health in Moosic, Pennsylvania. The facility is comprised of three major elements including the patient nursing units, administrative offices, facility support, and an activity therapy space including a gymnasium. Activity therapy opportunities extend outside of the building with four enclosed exterior activity yards.
The joint venture partnership is helping to address the increased need for mental health care in Pennsylvania. According to data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year. Three out of 5 Pennsylvania communities do not have enough mental health providers, and more than 1.8 million adults in Pennsylvania have a mental health condition. Not only does this facility address a rising need in the area, but has created numerous new jobs for the community it serves. We are proud to have been the architects and interior designers on this impactful project that will help many in need.