New Office Space in Old Fort!
In response to the need for local, easily accessible mental health support in Western McDowell County, Black Mountain Counseling Center opened a satellite office in Old Fort in 2020. The office was opened with the support of the Bridge Foundation and the Old Fort Presbyterian Church. With continuing community support, the office moved to 294 Catawba Ave, next to the Old Fort United Methodist Church and one block from Old Fort Elementary in August 2024. BMCC is grateful to the church for offering this central space and to the many volunteers who have helped create a comfortable and safe space for clients and counselors. The Fishers of Men group added a ramp to make the building more accessible and Plantiful Plantcare provided plants that make the space come alive.
The new space offers a resource hub with information for support for those struggling with mental health issues and substance use disorder. The new office has dedicated space for two private therapy rooms, a group meeting space, and a room dedicated to children’s therapy. A clothes and food distribution room, supported by the Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry, is stocked for supplemental support.
An open house and ribbon cutting with the McDowell Chamber of Commerce was held on August 22, 2024, with many members of the community in attendance. The staff and Board of Directors hope the new space will be a place of support and respite for the children, adults, elders, and families of Eastern Buncombe and McDowell Counties.
