Nonprofit Clearbrook has made a major move in helping those with intellectual and developmental disabilities by opening a new Community Mental Health Center in Libertyville. The ribbon-cutting drew attention to the urgent need for niche mental health services in Illinois, where many residents languish on waiting lists for life-saving care.
Facilities and Services
This new 1,600 square foot facility, located at 1659 Northwind Boulevard, provides full-spectrum mental health for:
- Children and adults
- Existing Clearbrook clients
- Lake County residents
Understanding the Unique Mental Health Challenges
Clearbrook CEO Jessica Smart emphasized the complex mental health landscape for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). People with IDD face unique challenges, including:
- Social stigmatization
- Communication difficulties
- Higher rates of trauma exposure
- Limited access to appropriate support systems
“The truth is that people with IDD have many of the same mental health challenges as the rest of us, but those challenges are often compounded by the other unique circumstances of their lives,” Smart explained. “This facility is designed not only to support the individuals we currently serve but to also strengthen the community as a whole.”
Addressing Service Gaps in Illinois
The organization is addressing a significant service gap in Illinois, which Smart describes as “ranking pretty low” in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Key statistics include:
- Over 16,000 people are currently on the Prioritization of the Urgency of Need for Services waitlist
- Clearbrook provides services to approximately 8,000 people
Expanding Support Services
In addition to the new mental health center, Clearbrook plans to open a day program offering:
- Visual arts therapy
- Music therapy
- Fitness therapy
The organization already operates:
- An intermediate-care facility in Gurnee
- Two community-integrated living arrangements in Grayslake
- Appointment-based therapy sessions in Libertyville
Community Support and Advocacy Recognition
Libertyville Mayor Donna Johnson commended Clearbrook’s work, noting the need to leave the stigma about social services behind. “There’s a traditional view that only poor communities need these kinds of social services, and that is not the case,” Johnson said.
She also praised the passion and commitment of the staff, adding, “It’s only as successful as the staff you have, so I’m glad they have a good staff.”
Looking Forward
Smart expressed pride in Clearbrook’s comprehensive approach: “One of the things I’m most proud of is that through all our various services, we can serve somebody throughout their lifetime.”
The new facility represents a crucial step in providing comprehensive, compassionate mental health support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Lake County and beyond.
