Amid an overwhelming national shortage of mental health professionals and facilities, Rivendell Behavioral Health Services stands out as a beacon of hope. Established in 1985, this unique facility, with its 80-bed acute psychiatric hospital nestled in a 17-acre wooded glen in Benton, is a rare gem in the field of mental health care.

Rivendell has been responding to families and individuals in crisis for over 38 years. They offer a secure setting that provides the peace of mind and discretion necessary for patients and their families to fully embrace the healing process.

With a team of nearly 200 dedicated professionals, including physicians, nurses, therapists, educators, activity/recreational specialists and mental health associates, Rivendell Behavioral Health Services is committed to fostering a healing environment. This team, with its wealth of experience, offers a range of psychiatric and behavioral health treatment options for adults, adolescents and children, ensuring the best care for their clients.

Laura Davis, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and current director of Risk Prevention, Performance Improvement and Compliance, has held various roles during her almost 40-year career at the facility. Davis said, "When I was a teenager, I knew I wanted to have a career in social work. After earning my bachelor's degree from the University of Arkansas and my master's degree in social work from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, I joined Rivendell as one of the original group of employees hired weeks before the facility opened in 1985."

For over 25 years, she acted as clinical director, overseeing Rivendell's mental health associates, counselors and education staff. That role evolved into ensuring the hospital's licensure and good standing under the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and its accreditation by The Joint Commission.

"I am extremely proud of the work we have done here at Rivendell serving the needs of our clients. I have seen the growth of our programs, the services we offer, and the professionalism shown by the staff. It is an honor to work with others here who share the same collective dedication to helping people," Davis said.

The staff of Rivendell has created a therapeutic environment where privacy and comfort are always a priority. If you know someone in need or struggling with mental health or suicide, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.