The Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) is closing its K-Town Youth Health Center in Kingsley on December 18 after 15 years in service.

The clinic has provided health services to adolescents aged 10 to 21. In place of the clinic, "GTCHD is expanding services and partnering with Kingsley Area Schools to establish an Expanding, Enhancing, Emotional Health (E3) Program at Kingsley High School," according to a GTCHD release. "The E3 Program delivers comprehensive, on-site, year-round mental health services designed to meet students where they are - at school."
 
The E3 program includes prevention and intervention, screening, assessment, diagnosis, treatment, education, and referral services. A licensed mental health provider will be stationed at the high school. GTCHD operates two other E3 programs at Traverse City Area Public Schools, with one provider at TC Central High School and another at TC West Senior High School. GTCHD said the addition of the Kingsley E3 program "represents a continuation of GTCHD’s commitment to youth well-being and mental health access" throughout Grand Traverse County. 
 
“While the K-Town Youth Health Center is closing, our commitment to Kingsley youth remains stronger than ever,” said GTCHD Health Officer Mike Lahey. “By expanding our mental health programs directly into the school setting, we’re making it easier for students to access the support they need — when and where they need it.” 
 
For students who require physical health services, GTCHD encourages families to visit the Youth Health and Wellness Center on Parsons Road in Traverse City. Additional services remain available at the GTCHD main office on LaFranier Road in Traverse City.