Mental Health Resources for Rural Nebraska Communities
Jesica’s Story
Live Well Counseling Center (LWCC) of Kearney is dedicated to fostering hope and healing for individuals and families experiencing behavioral health challenges. Established in 1994, we are part of a group of outpatient mental health centers providing behavioral health and wellness services to rural Nebraska. LWCC has 22 mental health providers across several locations throughout central Nebraska, including two main offices in Kearney and Grand Island that strive to guide individuals and families through life’s challenges.
Providing mental health care to rural populations is a priority of Live Well. Studies show that while rates of mental illness are similar in rural areas compared to urban areas, there is a higher risk of suicide in rural communities, with nearly twice as many suicides in rural counties compared to urban.
Higher suicide rates can be attributed to rural areas experiencing a severe lack of access to and availability of the full range of behavioral health care services.
Every life matters. We at Live Well believe all individuals and families should have access to a full range of mental health care services. We have been working to bring services into rural communities through our employee assistance program, school-based counseling and increased use of telehealth services.
Live Well’s employee assistance program (EAP) benefits organizations and businesses across the state. EAP is an essential resource for supporting the mental wellness of Nebraska’s workforce. Through EAP, we offer counseling services, coaching and onsite crisis support, as well as other requested trainings and education.
Live Well’s on-site counseling services are also available at multiple rural Nebraska schools. Our providers travel to these schools to provide on-site services and promote mental wellness in collaboration with teachers and school personnel.
Mental health matters. Live Well Counseling Center is dedicated to promoting mental wellness and increase wellness resources in order to create healthier communities.
I love rural health, because rural Nebraska is my community. I love my community and have a passion for helping it. Our culture in rural Nebraska is rooted in supporting one another and building up our neighbors to, in turn, build healthier communities. I love being a part of that.
I love rural health, because rural Nebraska is my community. I love my community and have a passion for helping it. Our culture in rural Nebraska is rooted in supporting one another and building up our neighbors to, in turn, build healthier communities. I love being a part of that.
Jesica Vickers, LIMHP, LPC, NCC