The story below is one of several features included in Providence’s Well Being Trust 2025 annual report.
View the full report here.
“I went to get help for my son as I did not know what was going on with him or understand how to help. The providers in the clinic really listened to my concerns and were supportive through every appointment. I am so glad to have access to these services.”
— Comment from parent whose son received care at the PACC
The 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that 43 percent of Alaskan high school students reported persistent sadness or hopelessness, and 19 percent attempted suicide in the past year – more than double the rate a decade earlier. These trends underscore the urgent need for coordinated pediatric mental health services in Alaska.
In 2025, the Providence Adolescent and Child Center (PACC) opened. This newly renovated space is dedicated solely to pediatric and young adult patient care. All outpatient mental health services for youth are now offered in one location and include the PACC, the Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Outpatient Clinic, and the Child Development Clinic for early autism assessments.
“We launched the PACC to ensure additional access and to create a space that is truly child and adolescent friendly,” said Tara Lovin-Curry, director, clinic operations, Providence Medical Group – Alaska. “The remodeled environment provides a welcoming, developmentally aligned setting for patients and families.”
Child and adolescent mental health services include:
• Individual, group, and family therapy;
• Psychiatric medication management;
• Neuropsychological services.
Clinic teams use a collaborative model to address patient and family needs and coordinate care for additional mental health support.
As mental health challenges continue to rise among Alaska’s youth, investments like PACC strengthen early intervention, improve care coordination, and expand access to vital services giving more young Alaskans the opportunity to thrive.
Providence’s Well Being Trust is honored to support the PACC renovations and help expand access to much-needed care for children and adolescents.
