Southeast Arkansas Behavioral Healthcare System, Arkansas’ first community mental health center, will end operations after more than 62 years, with its four behavioral health clinics transitioning to two other organizations. The nonprofit said changes in the healthcare landscape had made it increasingly difficult to continue operating independently.
Mainline Health Systems will take over the Star City and Sheridan clinics, while Arcare will assume operations of the Stuttgart and Pine Bluff locations, according to a news release from the system.
The transition is expected to become effective Sept. 28, 2026.
Southeast Arkansas Behavioral Healthcare System is dissolving as a nonprofit organization. The transition is not a traditional acquisition or purchase, and certain assets, including the Star City and Sheridan clinics, will become part of Mainline Health Systems.
Founded in 1964, the organization has provided community-based behavioral health services to children, adults and families across southeast Arkansas.
Mainline Health Systems expects to welcome many of the current clinical and support team members, pending final employment agreements. Behavioral health services for children and adults are expected to continue without interruption.
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