For 60 years, Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center has been a cornerstone of mental health and substance use services in southeastern Minnesota. What started as a small initiative to address local mental health needs has evolved into a comprehensive, multi-county organization dedicated to providing exceptional, responsive, and consumer-focused care. Throughout our history, we have remained steadfast in our mission while adapting to meet the ever-changing needs of our community. 

Legacy of Commitment 

Founded in 1965, HVMHC began as a small outpatient clinic focused on providing accessible mental health services. At the time, mental health was often overlooked, and resources were limited. However, our founders recognized the critical need for mental health care in our region and set forth a vision to serve individuals and families with dignity and compassion. 

Over the years, we have expanded our reach, adding services to address substance use disorders, crisis intervention, and community-based programs. As societal understanding of mental health has grown, so too has our ability to provide innovative, person-centered care. We have remained committed to breaking down barriers to access, ensuring that anyone in need, regardless of financial status, has a place to turn for help

Expanding Our Services to Meet Community Needs 

Today, HVMHC offers a wide range of services designed to support individuals across all stages of life. Our programs include: 

Outpatient Therapy & Psychiatry: Providing individual, family, and group therapy, as well as medication management, to help people manage mental health challenges. 

  • Substance Use Disorder Services: Offering assessments, outpatient treatment, and support for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. 
  • Mobile Crisis Response: Ensuring individuals in crisis receive immediate support, assessment, and connection to care, 24/7. 
  • School-Based Mental Health Services: Partnering with local schools to bring mental health care directly to students, reducing barriers to access. 
  • Community-Based Services: Supporting individuals and families of loved ones with mental illness through case management and skills training. 
  • Housing Programs with Support: Offering safe, stable living environments with staff support for individuals in recovery. 

 

Staying True to Our Mission 

Throughout our history, our growth has been driven by listening to our community. Our mission—to be the leader in developing exceptional, responsive, consumer-focused behavioral health services—has guided us through six decades of change. While mental health care has transformed significantly since our founding, our core belief in providing compassionate, high-quality care has never wavered. 

As we celebrate 60 years of service, we remain dedicated to fostering hope, healing, and resilience in the communities we serve. Looking ahead, we will continue to innovate, advocate, and expand our services to ensure that everyone who needs care can access it. Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center is not just a mental health center; we are a partner in the well-being of our community—yesterday, today, and for generations to come. 

 

Erik Sievers 

Executive Director 

Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center