Saban Community Clinic and Westmont Counseling Center have officially merged, a strategic move aimed at expanding healthcare access in South Los Angeles. This merger, effective as of November 8, 2023, combines two organizations with a long-standing commitment to providing quality medical and behavioral health services to underserved communities.
Under this new partnership, Westmont Counseling Center will become an integral part of Saban Community Clinic. The merger honors Westmont’s legacy of compassionate service while broadening the range of healthcare services available to residents in the Westmont neighborhood.
“We are thrilled to join forces with Westmont Counseling Center,” said Muriel Nouwezem, Chief Executive of Saban Community Clinic. “Westmont’s impact in the community has been extraordinary, and together, we can ensure that residents have access to care that goes beyond behavioral health, offering a true continuum of services to improve overall health and well-being.”
For decades, Westmont Counseling Center has been a cornerstone for behavioral health services in the area, providing support to individuals and families with empathy and expertise. The merger allows Saban to build on this foundation, while introducing a wider array of services. These include comprehensive medical care, dental services, preventive screenings, and improved access to a network of specialists.
“Westmont is committed to helping the wonderful people of this community in any way we can,” stated Joel McLafferty, Executive Director of Westmont Counseling Center. “With this merger, we will continue to provide compassionate mental health services, while opening the door to a new world of medical services right here at home.”
Saban Community Clinic, originally founded in 1967 as the LA Free Clinic, operates multiple health centers and a mobile clinic throughout Los Angeles and West Hollywood. The organization delivers essential services to those who might otherwise struggle to receive care. Annually, Saban Community Clinic records over 155,000 visits and provides more than $6.5 million worth of free services.
The merger promises to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality for the community, with services continuing uninterrupted for current Westmont patients. In the coming months, Saban will collaborate closely with staff, patients, and community partners to ensure a smooth transition, preserving the commitment to care that both organizations have maintained over the years.
This partnership signifies a crucial step forward in addressing the healthcare needs of South Los Angeles residents, fostering a more integrated approach to health and well-being in the community.
