The Kendall Behavioral Solutions team marks its 10-year anniversary. Photo Provided

MARTINS FERRY — Ten years ago, on Sept. 15, 2015, Kendall Behavioral Solutions opened its doors with a simple mission: To help children and families thrive through high-quality behavioral care.

On Monday, the organization celebrated a decade of service. A news release marking the anniversary states the company is “known for its innovation, teamwork,and unwavering commitment to the community.”

For founder and owner Katie Kendall, the journey has been both personal and professional. “When I started KBS, I knew teamwork had to be at the heart of everything we did,” Kendall said. “Behavioral Health is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every child, every family, every story is different. That’s why we’ve always worked to build programs and partnerships that wrap around families in ways no one else offers.

“We’re always asking ourselves, ‘What’s missing? What does this community need that no one else is offering?'” Kendall continued. “That’s why we’ve been able to introduce new programs year after year that truly make a difference.”

Over the years, KBS has developed a wide range of programs that address needs often overlooked in the region. From its social skills programs that give children a safe space to connect with peers, to social emotional groups designed for youth facing trauma and behavioral concerns, KBS has become known for filling critical service gaps. Play groups encourage learning through fun and connection, while a selection of parent training support groups help families who are navigating autism, foster care and other behavioral needs. KBS has a parent support coach to assist families in overcoming treatment barriers and has helped to create programs with the Belmont County Juvenile Court.

Partnerships have been key to KBS’s success. It works closely with organizations such as the Belmont and Harrison County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Jobs and Family Services, Family Children First Council, the Mental Health Recovery Board, Juvenile Court, numerous local school districts, West Virginia Northern Panhandle Head Start and Holy Family Child Care.

“Our partnerships across Ohio and West Virginia have shaped us into who we are,” Kendall said. “We’ve been able to collaborate with schools, courts and agencies to build a stronger network of care. It’s not just about treating a child in a clinic, school or home — it’s about supporting the whole family and creating lasting change.”

Kendall’s leadership has also gained recognition beyond the region. In November 2025, she was appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine to the Ohio Board of Psychology, an honor she credits to the work of her team.

“This is never about one person,” she said. “It’s about the collective effort of our staff, families, and community partners who truly believe in the work we’re doing. I have been blessed to lead the most incredible team, and they deserve the recognition for their dedication.”

Some of the team members who stood alongside Kendall in those early days are still with KBS today. Back then, services were provided almost entirely in homes, and the small team even worked out of Kendall’s own house.

“It’s incredible to look back and see how far we’ve come,” she said. “The fact that some of our original staff are still here a decade later says so much about their dedication and the family culture we’ve built.”

As KBS enters its second decade, the celebration will focus on both staff and service. One highlight: KBS’s Annual Sensory-Friendly Trunk or Treat on Oct. 28 is designed so children of all abilities can participate comfortably.

As KBS looks to the future, Kendall said the organization is already developing new programs to meet the growing needs of the Ohio Valley.

“Ten years is a milestone, but it’s also just the beginning. We have some new ideas in the works,” she said. “We are committed to continuing to innovate and bring resources to families that they’ve never had access to before. That’s what keeps us moving forward.”