Mental illness and improving awareness are raising concerns in the area, and one psychiatric center is willing to end the stigma.

Nulton Diagnostic & Treatment Center recently opened in Slatington — the 10th branch under this name. Larry J. Nulton, Ph.D. launched the mental health program in 1995. He is the president and oversees all of the offices.

Originally located in Johns­town, Nulton has created a reputable name for his practice, which has reached this area.

“Our goal is to provide the highest level of care to our patients along with the best plans that work toward recovery and are patient centered,” Nulton said.

The process took more than a year for Nulton Diagnostics in Slatington to open its doors.

Lehigh County and Magellan Behavioral Health issued a request for proposal to open an outpatient psychiatric clinic in northern Lehigh County, and Nulton’s team responded with their proposal in February 2018. Once they were reviewed and interviewed, they were rewarded the RFP.

When the proposal was confirmed, Nulton and his team needed to find a location. Luckily, they knew they wanted a space in Slatington, and property was available. Nulton received a letter of support from Lehigh County in May 2018. Renovations of the office space occurred June-September, and the certificate of occupancy was approved in November 2018. During this time, Nulton focused on hiring staff which included an office manager, therapists, psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant and social worker. The licensing process began with the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and its license was received in February 2019. Also, an agreement was developed with the Managed Care companies and opened satellite offices in Northern Lehigh School District to provide mental health services to students. Therapy services began April 2019.

The Slatington office provides psychiatric services, medication management, counseling/therapy and psychological evaluations. Age ranges are from child to older adult.

Nulton said the staff at the Slatington office are highly dedicated and experienced in the field of mental health and psychiatry.

“Nulton Diagnostic & Treatment Center’s roots are in rural psychiatry and mental health — we have worked tirelessly at partnering with our staff to increase the level of qualified high-level staff in rural areas.”

Currently, the office has an office manager, physician assistant, licensed clinical social worker, licensed behavioral specialist, telepsychiatrist and registered nurse. The office plans on expanding with new members.

Each employee welcomes new patients. They accept all ranges and cases.

The office is open 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. To make an appointment call 610-224-9311.