Advanced Behavioral Health, Inc. (ABH) has opened a new outpatient office in Hagerstown, marking its first expansion into Washington County. The office, located at 265 Mill Street, Suite 800, began serving patients on September 1, 2026. This move extends ABH's reach to six counties across Maryland, bringing its model of community-based mental health care to a region that has historically faced limited access to such services.
The expansion is a response to the growing need for mental health support in Washington County, where residents previously had to travel to neighboring counties for ABH's services. By establishing a local presence, ABH aims to reduce barriers to care, including transportation and waiting times. The new office offers a range of services, including individual and family therapy, school-based therapy, telehealth counseling, and psychiatric evaluation and medication management. These services are designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals, youth, and families, aligning with ABH's mission to provide comprehensive care.
Vera Kurdian, CEO of ABH, emphasized the collaborative nature of the expansion: "Serving families and supporting communities one individual at a time is what we do best. This expansion allows us to build a collaborative partnership in Washington County, where families can expect high-quality and timely mental health and psychiatric services." Kurdian also noted that the new office will create job opportunities for mental health professionals, reflecting ABH's commitment to its employees as well as its patients.
In addition to the immediate services, ABH plans to introduce its Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) to the Hagerstown office once Maryland lifts its moratorium on new PRP providers, expected in 2027. This program will further enhance the continuum of care available to Washington County residents, supporting individuals with serious mental illness in achieving recovery and community integration.
The opening of the Hagerstown office is significant because it addresses a critical gap in mental health care access in rural and semi-rural areas. Washington County has been identified as a Health Professional Shortage Area for mental health, with a limited number of providers and high demand for services. ABH's expansion not only increases the supply of providers but also brings a proven model of care that emphasizes cultural competency and sliding-scale fees to ensure no one is denied access due to inability to pay.
ABH's growth reflects a broader trend of behavioral health organizations expanding their footprints to meet rising demand, particularly in underserved regions. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated mental health issues nationwide, and Maryland is no exception. By establishing a physical presence in Hagerstown, ABH is positioned to serve as a key resource for Washington County schools, primary care providers, and social service agencies, facilitating integrated care and early intervention.
For referring providers and patients, the new office can be reached at 301.345.1022. More information about ABH's services and locations is available at abhmaryland.com. The organization, recognized as a Top Workplace in 2024, 2025, and 2026, continues to demonstrate its commitment to expanding access to behavioral health services throughout the state.
