The Piatt County Mental Health Center has reopened its doors with restrictions in place that practice social distancing and infection control measures along with only a select group of clients in the building.

Executive Director Tony Kirkman says their counselors are back meeting with clients. Everyone has to wear masks and they are keeping six-feet distance along with all the sanitization practices. He says that face-to-face setting has been missed and he's glad it is back. 

According to Kirkman, they are keeping their awareness up for those that immunocompromised and so they continue to offer telehealth services. An idea from a similar organization has led him to begin exploring providing those that may not have the technology or the access to the internet the ability to still stay connected to them in the parking lot of their facility.

As for the adult services with intellectual or developmental disabilities, Kirkman believes there will never be a return to normal until there is a vaccine or the numbers get under control. All community day services have been closed until August 31.

Providers are being challenged to break their day services into smaller groups in various places in their communities. Kirkman believes that kind of a model would be beneficial for them and the community.

Find the Piatt County Mental Health Center on Facebook for the latest in the plans moving forward as the State continues its reopening and the gradual return to normal.