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Expanding Access: MHS and H.P. Psychological Associates Partner to Strengthen Mental Health Services in Minnesota
May 20, 2025
In a significant move to enhance mental health services across Minnesota, Mental Health Systems (MHS) and H.P. Psychological Associates have formed a strategic partnership to expand access to high-quality care, particularly in underserved regions. This collaboration, officially launched in December 2024, focuses on integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) programs and leveraging telehealth technologies to bridge service gaps between urban and rural communities. One of their first initiatives was a DBT training session for professionals in the Duluth area in February.
A Unified Vision for Comprehensive Care
The partnership emerged from a shared commitment to address northern Minnesota’s pressing need for improved mental health services. By combining resources and expertise, MHS and H.P. Psychological Associates aim to provide comprehensive care that meets the diverse needs of individuals across the state.
Dr. Kimberly Overlie, owner and licensed psychologist at H.P. Psychological Associates, emphasized the client-centered approach of the collaboration:
“It comes down to the client. It comes down to being able to provide as many comprehensive services as we can. And just being able to provide the best service all around.”
Dr. Lane Pederson, co-owner of MHS, highlighted the importance of provider collaboration:
“What I find is these trainings, it becomes an opportunity for providers to get to know one another, each other’s services, and how they can complement each other’s services. So that we can close gaps and access and coverage for people. And really be able to work together as providers to get people the type of help they need.”
Complementary Services for Diverse Needs
Both MHS and H.P. Psychological Associates offer a range of services designed to address various mental health challenges.
H.P. Psychological Associates provides individual therapy for adults, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and life transitions. Their Duluth-based clinic offers in-person and telehealth sessions, ensuring accessibility for clients in different locations.
Mental Health Systems (MHS) specializes in DBT programs tailored for adults, adolescents, and specific populations, including those dealing with trauma, addiction, and developmental disorders. Their services are available across multiple locations in Minnesota, including Edina, Roseville, Woodbury, Apple Valley, and Plymouth, as well as through their Virtu-Clinic for virtual sessions.
Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide
The integration of telehealth services is a cornerstone of this partnership, aiming to overcome geographical barriers that often limit access to mental health care in rural areas. By sharing resources and coordinating referrals, MHS and H.P. Psychological Associates are working to ensure that individuals receive timely and effective treatment regardless of location.
This collaboration represents a proactive step toward a more inclusive and responsive mental health care system in Minnesota, demonstrating the power of partnerships in addressing complex health challenges.
