Saban Community Clinic and Westmont Counseling Center have officially merged, aiming to expand access to medical and behavioral health services in South Los Angeles. This strategic partnership combines two respected organizations dedicated to providing quality care to underserved populations.
Partnership Details and Goals
Effective from November 8, 2023, Westmont Counseling Center will integrate into Saban Community Clinic. This merger honors Westmont’s longstanding commitment to compassionate service while enhancing the range of healthcare services available to the local community. “We are thrilled to join forces with Westmont Counseling Center,” stated Muriel Nouwezem, chief executive of Saban Community Clinic. “Westmont’s impact in the community has been extraordinary, and together, we can ensure that residents have access to care that goes beyond behavioral health, offering a true continuum of services to improve overall health and well-being.”
For decades, Westmont Counseling Center has been a vital resource for behavioral health support in South Los Angeles. The merger will build upon that foundation, continuing the mission of providing empathetic care while introducing a broader range of services, including comprehensive medical care, dental services, and preventive screenings.
Commitment to Community and Future Services
“Westmont is committed to helping the wonderful people of this community in any way we can,” said Joel McLafferty, executive director of Westmont Counseling Center. “With this merger, we will continue to provide compassionate mental health services, while opening the door to a new world of medical services right here at home.”
Current patients of Westmont will experience no interruption in their services as the integration takes place. Over the coming months, Saban Community Clinic plans to collaborate closely with staff, patients, and community partners to facilitate a smooth transition.
Founded in 1967 as the LA Free Clinic, Saban Community Clinic operates multiple health centers and a mobile clinic throughout Los Angeles and West Hollywood. It delivers essential health services to those who might otherwise lack access, with more than 155,000 visits annually and providing over $6.5 million worth of free services each year.
This merger represents a significant step forward in enhancing healthcare access and quality in South Los Angeles, ensuring that the community’s diverse needs are met through a unified and comprehensive approach to health and well-being.
