Centerstone says they’re being left in the dark in Hamilton County Schools mental health situation

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The mental health provider at the center of a controversial decision by the Hamilton County School Board is speaking out.

Centerstone worked in 50 schools across Hamilton County, and were about to expand to 57.

However, their representatives say that misconceptions among school boards have led to a situation where nearly 200 kids are no longer receiving mental health treatment.

Their regional Vice President, Dan Mansfield said, “It is very interesting to me that not once have I received an email or a phone call with specific concerns about items on our website or our personnel or any issues of that nature, and that’s part of my job as regional vice president is I handle any questions, complaints or concerns.”

This lack of communication Mansfield says is leading to confusion on Centerstone’s end about why their Memorandum of Understanding was not extended at the School Board’s August meeting.

Mansfield said, “I really can’t tell for sure why there’s not a specific concern being lodged. There’s a lot of rumors and conjecture and misinformation out there right now.”

Some board members referenced the company’s website that referenced LGBTQ+ initiatives.

He is concerned about outsiders spreading false information.

Mansfield said, “Therapy does not promote any particular ideology. Centerstone is committed to providing the best behavioral health and substance abuse care possible.”

He says that 190 students have lost access to their therapist due to this decision, and is concerned about their outcomes.

He says Centerstone is applying in the county’s Request for Proposal process to attempt to reconnect with these students.

Mansfield said, “Improvements are not going to occur at the very least. Any improvements that were being made are being stopped, or you may see a regression in symptoms. You may even see an increase in crisis or crisis assessment needs.”

The Centerstone MOU is back on the agenda for Thursday evening.

However, when it was brought up last month, 7 of the 11 board members elected to table it.