Dickinson-based Behavioral Health Center earns national re-accreditation for excellence – The Dickinson Press

DICKINSON — The Badlands Human Service Center (HSC), part of the North Dakota Health and Human Services network, has been re-accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) for its commitment to high-quality behavioral health care. This designation reflects the center’s adherence to international best practices in mental health and substance use disorder treatment.

“Re-accreditation is a testament to our team’s dedication to providing the best care possible,” Jessica Odermann, regional director, said. “We strive to help individuals in their behavioral health goals with services rooted in excellence and compassion.”

According to a press release, the center is one of eight regional behavioral health clinics across North Dakota and operates under triad leadership, including Odermann, Clinical Director Channing Spradling and Interim Medical Director Dr. Laura Kroetsch. Its services include outpatient counseling, psychiatric care and substance use disorder treatment, emphasizing accessibility and person-centered care.

Dickinson Press file photo

“This re-accreditation highlights our dedication to fostering a healing, supportive environment where individuals can thrive,” Dan Cramer, statewide HSC clinical director, said.

The COA’s evaluation process measures service delivery, management, and administrative functions against international standards. The Badlands HSC initially received accreditation in 2020 and achieved compliance with all fundamental standards during its 2024 review, qualifying for expedited pre-commission assessments in both instances.

In the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, the network of eight regional and outreach clinics provided behavioral health services to 8,810 individuals. Over 14,000 crisis interventions were delivered to more than 3,900 individuals during that period.

“This accreditation is an acknowledgement of our clinics’ excellence in service and care,” Antonia Berning-Scilley, director of accreditation at HHS, said. “It reflects the hard work and dedication of our team members, who strive every day to support the people we serve. We are proud to uphold the principles of quality and integrity and the highest standards of behavioral health care that this reaccreditation represents.”

COA accreditation serves as an independent validation of the center’s focus on service quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. It ensures that the center’s programs are culturally competent, evidence-based, and aligned with the needs of the community.

Residents across North Dakota benefit from this achievement as it affirms the availability of trusted, community-based behavioral health services.

For more information on the services provided by Badlands HSC or other regional clinics, visit hhs.nd.gov/hsc.

The Dickinson Press is southwest ND’s community-driven, professional and hyper-local newspaper since 1883.