The Behavioral Health Center of Excellence

About Us

A human approach to mental health for more than fifty years

With 1 in 5 people living with mental illness today, we all know or love someone dealing with these issues. At Places for People, we have always believed in a human approach to healing, understanding a person’s life circumstances and walking beside them to their fullest potential.

It’s about a life.

Serving the St. Louis Region in Missouri

OVERVIEW

Places for People (PFP) was founded over 50 years ago in response to deinstitutionalization, which transitioned individuals from mental institutions to community-based care. Recognizing the lack of infrastructure to support this shift, PFP established a welcoming space where those affected could access vital services, including housing assistance.

Today, PFP serves over 3,150 people annually, offering personalized, evidence-based care for mental health and substance use disorders. Dedicated to fostering recovery, our expert team combines human connection with proven treatments to help individuals manage their illnesses and lead meaningful lives.

Since becoming a Certified Community Behavioral Health Organization (CCBHO) in 2017—the only one in St. Louis City or County at the time—PFP has enhanced access to behavioral health care, crisis response, and comprehensive treatment across all ages.

Our Guiding Principles

Mission

“To improve the physical and behavioral health of the individuals, families, and communities we serve and those who support the provision of these services.”

Vision

Through the provision of accessible, efficient, effective and accountable treatment services; individuals and families served will reach their full potential for a purposeful and meaningful life.

Values

Hope

Core ideals: engaging, encouraging, recovery-focused, inspiring, and persistent.

Excellence

Core ideals: innovative, effective, holistic, and efficient.

Collaboration

Core ideals: empowering, trusting, trust-worthy, and safe

Compassion

Core ideas: person-centered, trauma-informed, patient, caring, and respectful.

Culture & Belonging

At Places for People, our Culture & Belonging initiatives foster a welcoming, inclusive workforce where everyone feels valued and can thrive.

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Our Board of Directors

Guided by a commitment to our mission, our Board provides strategic direction, oversight, and advocacy to advance our vision of holistic care.