Who is Philhaven?
For 75 years Philhaven has been providing hope, healing and wholeness.
During World War II, a group of young Mennonite conscientious objectors staffed state mental hospitals. Through these experiences, a desire grew within them to respond to the mental health needs in their own communities. They believed that there had to be a better way to provide professional care for the mentally ill than the deplorable conditions they saw in these institutions.
Over the next decade, Mennonite mental health facilities opened across the United States. Philhaven was one of those centers, dedicated to providing the highest quality mental health services within a Christian environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
Philhaven’s doors opened on May 7, 1952, as a 26-bed inpatient facility with outpatient and community education services. Over the next decades, Philhaven developed a continuum of mental health services for all ages throughout south central Pennsylvania.
Philhaven affiliated with WellSpan Health in 2016, an integrated health system serving the region with more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice providers, nine respected hospitals, more than 20,000 employees and more than 250 patient care locations. WellSpan Philhaven, was formed from Philhaven and WellSpan Behavioral Health, is now south-central Pennsylvania’s most comprehensive behavioral health organization. Since 1952, we have focused on treating the whole person – mind, body and soul. Services are available for all ages and various levels of care, including hospitalization, day programs, outpatient counseling, and services in the home, school and community.
For 75 years, WellSpan Philhaven has positively impacted thousands of lives through exceptional mental and behavioral healthcare treatment across central Pennsylvania and beyond. We have been a sanctuary for those struggling with mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and more. Our compassionate, multidisciplinary team has worked tirelessly to serve individuals and families, embodying our mantra of “Finding A Better Way.” As part of our mission, we are excited to gather and share the stories of those who have made a difference in the lives of our community members.