WHO WE ARE

About Us

LifeWays is a community mental health services program serving people in Jackson and Hillsdale counties.

We treat individuals with:

  • Emotional/behavioral challenges,

  • Intellectual/developmental disabilities, and

  • Substance use issues.

We provide a comprehensive set of services used to increase access to care, support people in crisis, and provide treatment for those with the most serious and complex behavioral health needs. As a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) we serve anyone, regardless of their residence or insurance coverage. We treat adults and children with emotional/behavioral challenges, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and substance use issues. Our services focus on recovery, wellness, trauma-informed care, and physical-behavioral health care integration.

Our History

1963

Taking Shape

Community mental health services begin taking shape in Jackson and Hillsdale counties following the Community Mental Health Act, helping shift care from institutions to community-based services.

1970s-1980s

Expansion

Jackson-Hillsdale Community Mental Health expands services and launches innovative community-based programs, including Michigan's first day treatment center for individuals with mental illness.

1990s

Improving Access

The organization earns Joint Commission accreditation and develops pioneering programs that increase access to behavioral health services throughout the region.

2000s

Further Expansion

LifeWays is established as a Public Act 290 authority, expands community partnerships, and strengthens access to mental health, substance use, and developmental disability services.

2010s

Expanding Services

LifeWays secures major federal grants, joins Mid-State Health Network, expands crisis services, and helps increase mental health awareness through initiatives such as Mental Health First Aid.

2020s

Becoming a CCBHC

LifeWays receives Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) funding, completes a major campus renovation, and rebrands to better reflect its mission and the communities it serves.

Today

Continued Growth

LifeWays continues to provide comprehensive behavioral health, crisis, prevention, developmental disability, and substance use services to individuals and families in Jackson and Hillsdale counties.