Newport Hospital on Monday marked the opening of a new adolescent behavioral health unit, a first for Newport County and a significant expansion of youth mental health services in the region.
The James P. Nolan, MD and Peggy Nolan Adolescent Behavioral Health Unit is an eight-bed facility designed to provide short-term stabilization, assessment, and treatment for patients ages 12 to 18. Developed in partnership with Bradley Hospital, the unit is scheduled to begin admitting patients in early 2026.
Hospital leaders said the unit responds to a growing mental health crisis among adolescents and a lack of local inpatient options for families.
“This unit represents hope for families in our community,” said Dr. Tenny Thomas, president and chief medical officer of Newport Hospital. “The need is urgent, and this space allows us to deliver specialized care close to home.”
The project was first announced in 2023 as Rhode Island faced rising demand for pediatric behavioral health services. More than $5 million in philanthropic support helped accelerate construction.
The unit is named after retired medical professionals Dr. James Nolan and Peggy Nolan, who donated $1 million toward the project. It includes therapy rooms, activity areas, and a secure outdoor space designed to support recovery in a safe environment.
Hospital officials estimate the unit will serve more than 240 adolescents each year.
Major donors include the van Beuren Charitable Foundation, the Alletta Morris McBean Charitable Trust, The Champlin Foundation, Bellevue Asset Management, and the Schorsch and Weil families.
“This is a transformative moment for Newport Hospital and for the children and families who need this level of care,” said Carol Bazarsky, chair of the Newport Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees. “Philanthropy made this possible.”
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