Open House Marks Completion of New Inpatient Unit for Children

More than 75 visitors including business leaders and community and legislative leaders from southern Vermont joined Brattleboro Retreat staff on Thursday, May 14 to celebrate the completion of the Retreat’s new Inpatient Unit for children. The event included brief remarks from Dr. Robert E. Simpson, president and chief executive officer of the Brattleboro Retreat, Robyn Ostrander, MD, medical director of Children’s Services. Also on hand was Vermont artist Susan Read Cronin whose whimsical bronze sculptures adorned the halls during the open house.

“This needed renovation project will enhance the quality of children’s care at the Brattleboro Retreat,” said Simpson. “We have a unique role as Vermont’s only mental health hospital for children and adolescents. This new space reflects best practices in children’s mental health care today, and represents the Retreat’s commitment to providing superior mental health care to young people in need.”

The renovation includes 12 inpatient beds for children ages 4—12 who are suffering from a variety of challenges including trauma, depression, behavioral problems and autism, and other pervasive developmental disorders. The new space is based on an open layout plan and includes features such as a sensory integration room, a large movement room, flexible group spaces and a specially-designed family visiting room.

Cronin, whose sculptures will be on display for an indefinite period of time in non-clinical areas throughout the Retreat, has also agreed to produce larger works that will be displayed, at some point in the future, on the Retreat grounds. “There’s a lot unfolding here at the Brattleboro Retreat,” she said. “The opening of this new Children’s Psychiatric Unit is just one of many wonderful things going on. Thanks to generous donors, a spectacular staff, uplifting attitudes, and a strong community, look no further… there’s magic happening here. And it’s happening now.”

The building and renovation project, launched in February, was completed by Williston-based Engelberth Construction, Inc. It was made possible through the generous support of the Thomas Thompson Trust, the Windham Foundation and countless businesses and individuals.