With its perfect weather and beautiful beaches, Southern California can seem like a paradise. However, mental illnesses can strike even in the most perfect of environments. If you’re struggling with a mental illness in the Los Angeles area, there are a variety of Orange County mental health resources. However, how do you know which option is best for you? Look out for a few specific criteria that the behavioral health outcome data points too.
Thorough Psychiatric Evaluations
Thorough Psychiatric EvaluationsThe first thing that should take place when you reach out to a mental health therapist is a full psychiatric evaluation. In this evaluation, the therapist asks you questions about your life, family history, and how you’re feeling.
While it may sound a little intimidating, the therapist is just trying to get to know you. Once they have some background information, your therapist can give you a comprehensive behavioral mental health diagnosis.
Combination of Individual and Group Therapies
Regardless of which mental illness you struggle with, you’ll likely need talk therapy. The best Orange County mental health clinics will offer you both individual and group therapies. In individual therapy, you’ll get to the core of your problems as well as work on solutions.
In group therapy, you’ll learn about others’ experiences with similar issues. You’ll also discover that you’re not alone in your struggles. The most effective therapeutic plans include both individual and group therapies.
Medication Therapy Management
In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage your symptoms. High-quality Orange County mental health therapists will make this option available to you but never force your hand. The decision to take medication should be a joint decision between you, your family, and the psychiatrist.
If you decide to use medication to support your behavioral health treatment, a psychiatrist should carefully monitor your progress. It can take some trial and error to find a medication regimen that works. However, the appropriate medications combined with psychotherapy can lead to great outcomes.
Support for Co-Occurring Substance Abuse
Mental illnesses can often lead to struggles with addiction and vice versa. Because these two issues occur together so frequently, the best mental health clinics will also offer resources for substance abuse.
If a clinician ignores an addiction problem for the sake of treating the mental illness, he isn’t doing his client any favors. In fact, addictions can worsen mental health issues such as social anxiety. Addressing both problems is the best way to achieve recovery.
Explore Your Orange County Mental Health Options
Before deciding on a location for Orange County mental health therapy, explore your options. Make a list of what offerings are important to you and stick to it. Above all, if you don’t feel comfortable somewhere, keep looking. Fortunately, there are plenty of Orange County mental health therapists ready to help.
