Human-Centered, Behavioral Healthcare Furniture

Since 2018, CHNK has operated a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) for youth ages 7-17 diagnosed with one or more complex mental health conditions.

On average, young people live onsite with us for 3-4 months. While receiving our 24/7 wraparound care, our priority is to ensure their time away from home is as safe and comfortable as possible to ease their journey toward healing. 

After reviewing studies on space design that explore solutions to patients’ social behavior, harmful behavior, and staff satisfaction, we’ve learned that color and texture add visual interest to harmonize a space and visually soften institutional settings. 

The Need:

Our goal is to raise $60,000 for human-centered, behavioral healthcare furniture that will:

•    Reduce environmental stress, anxiety, and aggression of our patients in residence

•    Balance quality, comfort, and beauty with safety, security, and durability requirements, benefiting our staff and patients alike

•    Create an environment catered to youth that helps instill confidence in our campus and healthcare providers  

•    Leverage color to provide young patients with familiarity that is humane, harmonious, and aesthetically appealing

When children and teens come to our facility, they are often feeling unsettled, upset, confused, and unsure of what the future holds. Our hope is to create a welcoming, comforting space to boost patient morale and incorporate dignity using thoughtfully designed furniture that acknowledges the trauma they have experienced and is comfortable for residents who are working toward a happier, more peaceful life. 

Will you help us create a safe, dignified, people-centered space?

Why CHNK: CHNK is the only behavioral health services organization in Northern Kentucky licensed to meet this critical community need for Kentucky youth. We operate two residential campuses in Devou Park and Burlington, which is the first in our region to exclusively serve females.

Testimonial: From the mother of our client, Christopher:

Christopher found himself struggling with a myriad of emotional and behavioral challenges. By the time he reached adolescence, life had become a turbulent storm, impacting his family and personal relationships, education, and overall well-being. His family recognized they were unable to support Christopher’s needs and keep him safe. He needed more structured care. 

Christopher was admitted to CHNK’s Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) in Covington, a move that would become a turning point in his life. At first, he was hesitant and apprehensive, unsure of what to expect, and initially refused to get out of the car when he arrived at our campus. CHNK, however, had a well-equipped care team of dedicated professionals to help him, and they quickly engaged to convince Christopher out of the car to begin treatment that would allow him to return home in a healthier state. 

One of the key elements of his treatment at CHNK was a focus on building a supportive community. Christopher bonded with fellow residents through shared stories and experiences, building a sense of camaraderie that made Christopher feel less alone in his journey toward dealing with his trauma.

Over time, as Christopher engaged in therapy, learned new skills, and established meaningful connections with both CHNK associates and his peers, he began to experience significant improvements. His self-esteem improved, and he started to believe in his ability to overcome the obstacles he had faced. 

After several months of treatment, Christopher was ready to transition back home with a robust aftercare plan through CHNK’s community-based services.  

“Because of CHNK, I was able to bring home my sweet, sweet boy. Now, he is doing very well and I am very impressed. He is very happy to be home, and I let him know how proud we are of him and how grateful we are for CHNK.” – Christopher’s mom