Rosecrance Behavioral Health, a nonprofit therapy and substance use disorder (SUD) treatment provider, has recently made a significant move by acquiring Ascend CHC. This acquisition will not only expand Rosecrance Behavioral Health’s service lines but also increase its clientele by several hundred. The Chicago-based company will now offer eating disorder care and specialty sports and performance counseling under the name “Rosecrance Ascend.”
CEO Dave Gomel stated that Rosecrance Behavioral Health has experienced a 63% expansion over the past six years and is actively seeking new opportunities for growth. The addition of these two new service lines is just the beginning of the company’s expansion plans. Rosecrance Behavioral Health, established in 1916, operates across Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin, offering residential treatment, therapy, outpatient care, sober living homes, educational programming, and charitable services.
The decision to add eating disorder care was driven by the demand from patients and industry partners. Research revealed synergies between Rosecrance Behavioral Health and Ascend CHC, particularly in treating patients with co-occurring substance use disorders and disordered eating. Carelene Cardosi, president and COO of Rosecrance Behavioral Health, emphasized the importance of building a continuum of care to meet the diverse needs of their clients.
Despite the challenges associated with providing eating disorder care, Rosecrance Behavioral Health prioritized the well-being of its patients and made the acquisition to enhance its services. The company’s financial stability allowed it to make strategic decisions for growth, and Gomel expressed a willingness to explore further partnerships or acquisitions in the future.
Integrating Ascend’s staff and expertise into Rosecrance’s clinical team is a top priority post-acquisition. The organization aims to upskill clinicians and expand their knowledge in specialized therapy modalities to better serve their clients. Additionally, the introduction of sports and performance therapy will deepen Rosecrance’s partnerships with universities and cater to a new clientele of athletes.
Rosecrance also plans to enter into value-based arrangements, such as Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) models, to meet the increasing demand for services. The organization’s focus on providing quality care and declining intensities when necessary reflects its commitment to supporting clients throughout their recovery journey.
Looking ahead, Rosecrance intends to continue its organic growth by expanding its operational footprint in Wisconsin. The organization is set to open a new location in the coming month, with more partnerships and acquisitions on the horizon. By continually evolving and diversifying its services, Rosecrance Behavioral Health is dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of its community and enhancing the quality of care provided to its clients.
