Maple Counseling Center celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-tying ceremony on June 9. The new community mental health clinic in mid-city L.A. includes the innovative Briskin | Wilder Welcome Center (BWWC). An array of community leaders and supporters attended the event.
“With all the chaos, division and uncertainty around us, it’s more important than ever toacknowledge and talk about things. It’s OK to not be OK. We need the tools and guidance to navigate, and who better than the Maple Counseling Center to provide those skills?” said Beverly Hills Vice Mayor Sharona Nazarian.
The ribbon tying ceremony, a symbolic gesture representing a united commitment to community and mental wellness, was performed by community leaders and members including L.A. City Councilwoman Heather Hutt, Dr. Etsmaye Agonafer, Amanda Laflen, Field Deputy, Metro West for L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, among others.
The Chief Executive Officer of Maple Counseling Center, Varina Bleil, expressed her appreciation for the support. “Our ribbon-tying event served as a unifying force within the community as we celebrated the opening of our new clinic. We’re thrilled to further extend access to quality mental health care to all Angelenos through our new facility.”
Attendees were treated to remarks from Maple Counseling CEO Varina Bleil, as well as event chairs Deborah Kallick and Rex Wilder. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed food, beverages, and guided tours of the clinic, showcasing its state-of-the-art facilities and services.
The Briskin | Wilder Welcome Center will provide free personalized guidance from licensed practitioners, ensuring that all Angelenos find appropriate and affordable quality mental health care. Supported by philanthropist Judy Briskin and her son Rex Wilder, Chair of Maple Counseling’s Board of Directors, the BWWC has served over 3,000 individuals since its inception in 2022. For more information, visit https://www.maple4counseling.org/programs-and-services/briskin-wilder-welcome-center.
