Newport Hospital opened its new James P. Nolan, MD and Peggy Nolan Adolescent Behavioral Health Unit, an eight-bed facility designed to address rising mental health needs among youth in the region. The unit will provide short-term stabilization, assessment, and treatment for adolescents ages 12 to 18 and is expected to open to patients in early 2026.
Partnership and Capacity
Developed in partnership with Bradley Hospital, the unit represents the first-of-its-kind behavioral health facility for youth in Newport County. According to Newport Hospital, the facility is estimated to serve more than 240 adolescents each year.
Funding and Recognition
The project was first announced in 2023 as Rhode Island faced growing demand for pediatric behavioral health services. More than $5 million in donor support enabled accelerated construction. The unit is named after retired medical professionals Dr. James Nolan and Peggy Nolan, who contributed $1 million toward construction costs. Major philanthropic partners include the van Beuren Charitable Foundation, the Alletta Morris McBean Charitable Trust, The Champlin Foundation, Bellevue Asset Management, and the Schorsch and Weil families.
Facility Features and Leadership Response
The unit features modern therapy rooms, activity spaces, and a secure outdoor area. Dr. Tenny Thomas, President and Chief Medical Officer of Newport Hospital, stated: “This unit represents hope for families in our community. We know the mental health crisis for this age group is real and urgent. With this dedicated space, we can now offer specialized care close to home.”
Carol Bazarsky, Chair of the Newport Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, described the opening as significant for both the institution and the community it serves, noting the substantial role of philanthropic support in making the project possible.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.thenewportbuzz.com/newport-hospital-unveils-new-behavioral-health-unit-for-teens-amid-rising-mental-health-needs/58636