50+ years of compassionate care
Since 1971, The Guidance Center has been a trusted non-profit partner in mental health for Western Arkansas communities.
The Guidance Center is a nonprofit community mental health center that provides outpatient counseling, psychiatry, addiction treatment and 24/7 crisis care for children, adults and families across 16 counties in western Arkansas.
Its legal name is Western Arkansas Counseling and Guidance Center, often shortened to WACGC. The Guidance Center is a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic accredited by CARF, has operated since 1971, and runs 9 clinics from its main campus at 3111 South 70th Street, Fort Smith, AR 72903.
Our Mission
Providing a comprehensive network of quality behavioral healthcare services that are consumer sensitive, outcomes oriented and cost effective.
Our Vision
A community where mental health is valued, accessible, and free from stigma. Where every person has the support they need to live a fulfilling life.
Our Values
These principles guide everything we do, from how we treat our clients to how we serve our community.
Compassion
We treat every person with dignity, empathy, and respect.
Excellence
We pursue the highest standards in behavioral healthcare.
Accessibility
We ensure no one is turned away due to inability to pay.
Our History
For over 50 years, The Guidance Center has been a cornerstone of mental health services in Western Arkansas.
Our Beginning
The Guidance Center was founded to serve the mental health needs of Western Arkansas, starting with a small team dedicated to helping the community.
Expanding Services
Added crisis intervention services and began developing our network of locations throughout the region to better serve rural communities.
Growing Impact
Expanded to serve all six counties of our catchment area, adding specialized programs for children, families, and substance use disorders.
Integrated Care
Opened our Primary Care Clinic to provide integrated physical and behavioral health services, recognizing the connection between mind and body.
CCBHC Certification
Became a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), enhancing our ability to provide comprehensive, coordinated care.
Continuing the Mission
Nine locations, hundreds of dedicated staff, and thousands of lives touched each year. Our mission remains the same: We can help. We will help.
CCBHC Certified
CARF Accredited
HRSA Approved
NHSC Site
50+ Years Serving
Our Community
Our Service Area
The Guidance Center proudly serves sixteen counties across Western Arkansas, bringing comprehensive behavioral health services to both urban and rural communities.
With nine locations throughout the region, we ensure that quality mental health care is never far from home.
Our Locations
Fort SmithMain Campus
3111 South 70th Street, Fort Smith
Van Buren
2705-B Oak Lane, Van Buren
Ozark
1600 N. 18th Street, Ozark
Booneville
174 North Welsh Avenue, Booneville
Paris
415 South 6th Street, Paris
Waldron
1857 Rice Road, Waldron
Mena
307 South Cherry Street, Mena
Russellville
902 W Main Street, Russellville
Conway
719 Front Street, Conway
Horizon Renewal Center
398 E 2nd St, Booneville
By the Numbers
Our impact in Western Arkansas
50+
Years of Service
9
Locations
16
Counties Served
24/7
Crisis Support
Ready to take the first step?
You don't need a referral. Just reach out and we'll help you find the right path forward.