MASON, OH — In response to a rising need for comprehensive mental health care, the Lindner Center of HOPE has unveiled plans for a $38 million expansion that will significantly enhance its capacity to serve patients across Greater Cincinnati.
Located at 4075 Old Western Row Road in Mason, the nonprofit mental health facility will add a four-story, 75,000-square-foot medical office building to its existing campus. The new structure will provide additional treatment areas, wellness amenities, clinician offices, expanded neuromodulation services, and an extension to one of the center’s residential units.
The expansion is being developed by the Paul Hemmer Company, with architectural design by ATA Beilharz Architects. Construction is scheduled to begin in May, with completion expected by fall 2026. The project will commence with the demolition of the center’s current administrative office.
Meeting a Critical Need
Founded to provide comprehensive mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults, the Lindner Center of HOPE currently handles more than 50,000 outpatient visits annually. That figure is expected to climb as demand for services continues to grow.
“This expansion allows us to bring together inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient care under one roof,” said Michael Groat, president and CEO of the Lindner Center. “That’s a very unique offering in the mental health space.”
The new building will also bolster the center’s partial hospitalization program, a key service for individuals transitioning out of inpatient care or those seeking intensive support while remaining at home.
“There’s a lot of evidence that the period after hospitalization is when suicide risk is highest,” said Jennifer Pierson, spokesperson for the center. “The partial hospital model is a critical safeguard during that time.”
A Growing Clinical Team
The expansion comes amid rapid growth in the center’s clinical staff, which has tripled over the past three years.
“We went from about 30 medical staff to close to 90,” said Laura Nixon, the center’s chief financial and administrative officer. “We are out of space.”
Nixon also confirmed that the facility is raising $30 million through a capital campaign to support the project, with an additional $4 million expected from the state of Ohio. The remaining costs will be covered through the center’s operating budget.
Designed with Wellness in Mind
Architect Rob Humason, who is leading the design of the new facility, highlighted the central role of a connected, first-floor corridor known as “Main Street.” This thoroughfare will link the original building with the new addition, offering seamless access to wellness areas, an intake center, and a 300-seat conference room.
“Main Street runs from the existing lobby to the new pedestrian entrance,” said Humason. “It’s meant to create a welcoming, cohesive experience for everyone who comes through our doors.”
Outdoor amenities are also part of the plan. Clinicians and patients will have access to walking trails nestled among existing trees and lawns, offering a calming environment to support mental health and wellbeing.
A Vision for the Future
As mental health care in the U.S. continues shifting toward outpatient and community-based models, the Lindner Center of HOPE is aiming to remain at the forefront by offering a full continuum of care.
“Our goal is to meet people where they are in their recovery journey,” said Groat. “This expansion allows us to do just that—at a higher level, for more people, with greater compassion and effectiveness.”
