For an impressive 120 years, the Family Service And Guidance Center (FSGC) has stood as a pillar of support, profoundly impacting the lives of individuals and families throughout Shawnee County and northeast Kansas. Established in 1904, the center’s origins are rooted in community crisis, initially formed to aid victims of the devastating Topeka flood. In its early days, FSGC provided essential resources like blankets, clothing, food, and even access to hot baths, demonstrating a commitment to basic human welfare from its inception.
As the needs of the Topeka community evolved, so too did the focus of the Family Service and Guidance Center. By the 1950s, the organization shifted its attention from basic welfare provisions to the burgeoning need for community mental health care. This transition marked a significant step in recognizing and addressing the psychological well-being of the community. Later, in 1984, FSGC solidified its dedication to the specialized mental health requirements of children and families, becoming a dedicated resource for these vulnerable populations.
In 2023, the Family Service and Guidance Center achieved provisional accreditation as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC). This accreditation underscores FSGC’s commitment to providing whole-person care. CCBHCs are designed to treat individuals facing mental health challenges and substance abuse disorders, offering services regardless of age, location, or financial capacity. This model ensures that comprehensive care is accessible to everyone in need within the community.
Today, a career at FSGC Topeka is synonymous with making a tangible difference. The center’s dedicated team of 290 staff members, operating from a centralized four-building campus, delivers direct clinical services, prevention education, and outreach programs. Annually, FSGC extends its reach to nearly 10,000 individuals and families across more than 20 Kansas counties, solidifying its position as an innovator and a recognized leader in the field of mental health care services.
The Family Service and Guidance Center offers a comprehensive suite of programs and services, meticulously tailored to address the unique needs of each individual. These include:
- Outpatient therapy for individuals, families, and groups, providing accessible mental health support.
- Psychiatry services delivered by a team of Board-certified psychiatrists and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) specialized in mental health, ensuring expert medical care.
- A specialized anxiety treatment program, one of only two of its kind in Kansas, offering advanced care for anxiety disorders.
- Around-the-clock crisis services, available 24/7, 365 days a year, ensuring immediate support during mental health emergencies.
In conclusion, the Family Service and Guidance Center stands as a vital community asset. From its foundational work in flood relief to its current role as a leading mental health service provider, FSGC has consistently adapted and expanded its services to meet the evolving needs of northeast Kansas. Its long-standing commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible, and expert care makes the Family Service and Guidance Center an indispensable resource for individuals and families seeking support and guidance.
