Common Ties Mental Health Services in Lewiston is merging with Sweetser, a statewide behavioral health organization based in Saco, in a move that will make Sweetser the state’s largest certified community behavioral health clinic.
Funding uncertainties
The merger comes as smaller behavioral health organizations face increasing operational pressures and uncertainty around funding at the state and national levels, according to a news release.
“This merger was a necessity to ensure we continue to serve the Lewiston area for decades to come,” said Karen Bate, executive director of Common Ties. “Choosing a partner to carry forward our legacy was a weighty decision, but Sweetser shares our values and our deep commitment to evidence-based treatment.”
Common Ties housing services will temporarily remain at its 12 Bates St. location in Lewiston. PHOTO / COURTESY SWEETSER
Common Ties Mental Health Services was established in 1985.
Sweetser traces its roots in residential care for children to 1828. Today, the organization provides mental and behavioral health care, developmental services, education and recovery support to children, adults and families across the state. It served more than 12,000 individuals last year.
Sweetser had annual revenue of $50.2 million in the most recent data collected by GuideStar, according to the 2025 Mainebiz Giving Guide.
Staff continuity
Of the 18 staff at Common Ties, 15 are continuing with Sweetser after the merger. All Common Ties employees were offered roles at Sweetser. Bate will retain a leadership role.
For around 300 individuals receiving treatment through Common Ties, there will be no disruption in care. Clients will continue to work with their case manager but will now have access to a broader, more coordinated continuum of behavioral health services.
“By uniting as one organization, we are not only growing in size but also strengthening our collective ability to support the mental well-being of individuals and families in need,” said Jayne Van Bramer, Sweetser’s president and CEO.
Common Ties housing services will temporarily remain at its 12 Bates St. location in Lewiston, while other services, including case management, will operate out of Sweetser’s Hope & Healing Center at 20 Mollison Way. Sweetser’s center is next to Just-in-Time Recreation, a site targeted in the 2023 mass shooting.
Just-In-Time reopened in 2024 following extensive renovations, repairs and community engagement.