Fox Cities News

Tony Peterson has been on a long path to recovery, supported by ThedaCare Behavioral Health-Waupaca. Peterson, 39, shared his past struggles with substance and alcohol abuse, which began in his high school days. A series of life challenges pushed him to seek help, including a divorce, family estrangement, multiple driving under the influence incidents, a major car accident, a prison sentence, and becoming houseless.

“I decided I wasn’t going to do this anymore,” stated Peterson. “I had enough. I wanted to start over. I wanted what I had back. The counselors and people to talk to at ThedaCare Behavioral Health are some of the best resources that have helped me.”

ThedaCare Behavioral Health-Waupaca opened a renovated facility in July 2024 to aid individuals like Peterson. Carrie Kubasta, ThedaCare Behavioral Health Interim Director, noted that the facility meets community needs for mental and behavioral health services in Waupaca and surrounding areas. The facility provides services such as Substance Use Treatment, Mental Health Therapy, Outpatient Psychiatry, and Group Therapy options.

“We have expanded space to allow for bringing more health care providers to the area, extending our hours, and offering additional group therapy options,” Kubasta said. The physical facility is designed to enhance the patient experience with a comfortable environment featuring local artwork, aimed at promoting well-being.

Peterson appreciates the facility's proximity, which eliminates transportation issues that are common among those seeking help. “Transportation is an issue for me,” Peterson explained. “With the clinic being in town, I can walk or get a taxi ride. For a lot of people in my shoes, we don’t have access to transportation.”

Kubasta stated the facility arose from community assessments conducted by ThedaCare every three years. These assessments, done in partnerships with other health systems and community stakeholders, highlighted the need for increased mental health services in the region.

“We complete these assessments in partnership with other health systems, public health, Community Health Action Teams, community members, and other stakeholders such as the ThedaCare Foundation-Waupaca, that are dedicated to maintaining an incomparable quality of life in the region,” Kubasta said.

Tony Peterson continues to work on his journey supported by the facility. He is optimistic about his progress, saying, “Personally, I am very happy with where I am today. I want to keep going forward with it so I’m going to keep seeing the folks at ThedaCare.”

According to Kubasta, those interested in making an appointment should start with their primary care provider, who can help arrange a referral to ThedaCare Behavioral Health-Waupaca, where they will be seen by mental health specialists.