Psychiatric Disorder Counseling

The center provides mental health services to adults who live in the West San Fernando Valley. A primary emphasis is placed on working with clients who have severe and persistent mental disorders, who are uninsured, and for whom there are no other resources in the community. Services include psychiatric case managment, group counseling, crisis intervention, information and referral, medication management, mental health evaluation and telephone triage. The center serves residents of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Canoga Park, Chatsworth, Hidden Hills, Northridge, Porter Ranch, Reseda, Tarzana, West Hills, Westlake Village (L A County portion), Winnetka and Woodland Hills.

The center serves adults who have a severe persistent psychiatric disorder; who are at risk for decompensation or psychiatric hospitalization; or who are experiencing an acute psychiatric crisis. Mental health evaluation is done with clients who meet the eligibility requirements and are seeking ongoing treatment at the center. The center does not provide court-ordered mental health evaluation.

The agency also sponsors a DMH-funded Wellness Center to provide services and support to former DMH mental health clients who are recovering well and no longer need intensive services. The Wellness Center provides self-help mental health support groups; peer to peer support groups; social/recreational activities; medication evaluation and support services; and integrated services and support for co-occurring disorders, such as substance abuse.

In addition the centers provide physical health screening, and assistance with referrals to health care providers. The program also provides healthy living and health management education. Referrals are given for employment services, education, housing possibilities, benefit maintenance and short term or crisis mental health services.