Caroline's Corner seeks county help to subsidize first pediatric mental‑health therapist

Beth McRoberts, director of Caroline's Corner and co‑founder of the Madison Pediatric Wellness Center, told the council that Jefferson County is a “mental‑health desert” for children and outlined a vision for a pediatric mental‑health hub offering play therapy, nutrition classes, art and music therapy, and fitness coaching. The Corner plans to sublease space from Madison Pediatric Wellness and has applied for a Bethany Legacy grant to renovate the back half of the clinic.

McRoberts asked the county to help subsidize salary for the first mental‑health therapist while credentialing and insurance reimbursement processes are completed; she said the clinic expects 60% of clients will be on Medicaid and that low reimbursement rates mean bridging support will be needed. McRoberts estimated the pediatric clinic sees 50–70 patients a day and said the Corner aims to start its first therapist in January, expanding to three full‑time therapists over time.

Council members asked about patient load, rent and staffing; McRoberts said the nonprofit is fundraising (including a golf scramble) and pursuing grants, and she invited further follow‑up on budget details.