New Bellerose mental health treatment center serves people with developmental disabilities

The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities’ extended treatment center in Bellerose. Photo courtesy of the OPWDD

By David Brand

A state agency serving New Yorkers with developmental and intellectual disabilities has opened a new transitional center in Bellerose for individuals with mental illness leaving inpatient psychiatric treatment.

The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities’ extended treatment center, or ETU, began hosting adults with developmental disabilities and mental health diagnoses Monday. The 12-bed facility is located on the site of the former Bernard Fineson Developmental Center.

The rate of mental illness among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities is up to three times higher than the general population, according to researchers. 

OPWDD Commissioner Theodore Kastner said the ETU meets a need for transitional facilities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities receiving acute mental health treatment in New York CIty. 

“The ETU will mean better symptom management, better care and ultimately a much better overall quality of life both for the people who are struggling with these dual diagnoses and their families,” Kastner said.

The ETU is reserved for adults who live within New York City and will feature a specially trained psychiatrist, doctor and program manager, as well as social workers, occupational therapists and nutritionists.