Ponca Tribe of Nebraska: Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse Services
The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is committed to empowering and strengthening Native Americans through comprehensive health services, including a dedicated Behavioral Health Program that offers vital substance abuse treatment and education. Recognizing the critical need for accessible, culturally-informed care, the program provides a range of services designed for adolescents and adults seeking recovery from chemical dependency.
Program Overview and Philosophy
The core philosophy of the Ponca Behavioral Health Program centers on holistic wellness and patient empowerment. Services are available across multiple locations, including Omaha, Lincoln, Norfolk, Niobrara, and Sioux City (IA), ensuring that tribal members and eligible individuals have access to help close to home. The team utilizes personalized treatment planning to address the unique challenges faced by each individual on their journey toward sobriety.
Substance Abuse Services Offered
The program delivers professional, confidential care through various modalities. Whether an individual is taking the first steps toward recognizing a problem or requires ongoing support, the Ponca Tribe provides structured pathways to healing. Specific services available include:
- Substance abuse evaluations.
- Outpatient treatment and education for chemical dependency.
- Individual counseling tailored to personal needs and challenges.
- Group counseling to foster a supportive community and shared recovery experience.
- Treatment planning focused on individual goals and long-term stability.
In addition to self-referrals, the program accepts referrals from various sources within the tribal structure, such as the Domestic Violence Specialist, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Ponca Tribal Court, indicating a robust, interconnected network of care.
Locations and Contact Information
Behavioral Health Services are delivered at various Ponca offices and health centers. For instance, the Norfolk Office, located at 1800 Syracuse Avenue, serves as a key resource point, also covering the Niobrara and Sioux City regions. The program works closely with facilities like the Fred LeRoy Health and Wellness Center in Omaha to integrate mental and physical health services for comprehensive care.
The dedication of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska to behavioral health underscores a commitment to the well-being of its community, providing essential resources and support for those navigating substance dependency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska’s Substance Abuse Services?
Services are primarily focused on Native Americans within the tribal community and others who are eligible for Indian Health Services, including adolescents through adults. Contacting a specific office can confirm individual eligibility.
2. What is the difference between individual and group counseling in this program?
Individual counseling offers one-on-one sessions with a professional counselor to address personal issues and develop a specific treatment plan, while group counseling provides a collaborative environment where individuals share experiences and support each other through recovery.
3. Does the Behavioral Health Program offer services for issues beyond substance abuse?
Yes, Ponca Behavioral Health Services also offers drug and alcohol counseling; individual and family counseling; and youth prevention services.
4. Where is the main Behavioral Health office located in Norfolk?
The Norfolk Office, which also serves Niobrara and Sioux City, is located at 1800 Syracuse Avenue in Norfolk, NE.



