Mental Health Treatment

Clients participating in Alternative Options mental health treatment programs will receive care from our multi-disciplinary team which consists of therapists, certified counselors, and psychiatrists. Our mental health treatment center will work collaboratively with you and involved family members to ensure you receive the care and treatment needed to support and guide you along your journey to recovery and wellness.

Alternative Options goal is for clients to empower themselves by identifying and focusing on their personal strengths, building greater self-awareness, and learning new life skills. Through our mental health counseling, our clients learn to take responsibility for their personal wellness by obtaining new tools and coping skills that will assist in increasing their quality of life and help them move past the issues that brought them to treatment.

Mental health treatment includes:

Why Mental Health Treatment is Important

Mental health is a key part of our overall well-being. Just as we care for our bodies by addressing physical problems, it’s equally important to care for our minds when they are affected by emotional or psychological challenges.

Addressing these challenges can improve our quality of life, relationships, and physical health.

Rising Prevalence of Disorders

1 in 5 adults in the U.S. faced mental illness in 2021, which equates to a staggering 57.8 million people. This number shows that mental health disorders are extremely common. They can affect anyone at any stage in life.¹

In places like California, the situation is also concerning. Here, nearly 1 in 7 adults have a mental health need. Even more serious is that about 1 in 26 suffer from a severe mental illness.²

These numbers aren’t just statistics; they represent people in our communities – our neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family. Such prevalence can strain resources, from healthcare to employment sectors. This emphasizes the need for timely and effective mental health treatment.

The Importance of Early Intervention and Comprehensive Mental Health Treatment

Catching mental health concerns early can make a big difference. Early treatment often leads to better outcomes and can prevent the problem from becoming more severe.

Comprehensive mental health treatment looks at the whole person. It doesn’t just address the obvious symptoms, but digs deep to understand and treat underlying causes.

For example, if you’re struggling with depression, a comprehensive approach might explore not just feelings of sadness, but also your daily habits, relationships, or past traumas.

The Role of Specialized Mental Health Treatment Centers

Specialized mental health treatment centers like Alternative Options offer tailored programs to meet the specific needs of those seeking help.

At Alternative Options, our mental health treatment provides individuals with:

Expertise: We have a team of professionals skilled in various therapies and treatments, ensuring you get the best care.

Holistic Healing: We believe in treating the whole person. This means not just addressing the mental illness but understanding its root cause, allowing for deeper healing.

Diverse Therapies: From art therapy and yoga to more traditional approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, our specialized centers offer a wide range of treatments. This ensures you have access to various tools and techniques that cater to your unique needs.

Community Support: Being in a place where others are also seeking healing can provide a sense of belonging and support. It’s a reminder that you’re not alone in your journey.

Mental health treatment isn’t just about feeling better today. It’s about building a foundation for a happier, healthier future. Everyone deserves the opportunity to live their best life, and sometimes, that journey starts with seeking help.

Understanding Mental Health Challenges in Mental Health Treatment

Every person feels down or anxious at times. But, when these feelings become long-lasting or overwhelming, they may be signs of a deeper issue.

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Here are some of the most common mental health issues that people face.

Depression and Anxiety: The Silent Epidemic

In 2021, nearly 8.3% of adults in the U.S had a major depressive episode.³ This means that out of every 100 adults, about 8 were grappling with feelings of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest in daily activities. These emotions can hinder daily functions and impact relationships.

Anxiety can manifest as persistent worry, physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, or avoidance of certain situations. Often, depression and anxiety can occur together, making it hard for you to determine the root of your feelings.

PTSD/Trauma: Unseen Wounds

Traumatic events can leave a lasting mark on one’s psyche. About 8 of every 100 women and 4 of every 100 men will experience PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) in their lifetime.⁴

PTSD is a condition where a person relives traumatic events through flashbacks or nightmares, often feeling on edge or detached from their surroundings.

Substance Abuse: The Escapism Trap

Turning to substances, whether drugs or alcohol, can sometimes seem like an easy escape from life’s challenges. In 2021, an estimated 46.3 million people, or 16.5% of the population aged 12 or older, had a substance use disorder.

Substance abuse is more than just occasional use. It’s a pattern where the use of the substance becomes frequent and harmful, affecting health, relationships, and day-to-day living.

Eating Disorders: The Internal Struggle

Eating is a basic human need. But for some, their relationship with food is complicated. Around 9% of the U.S. population will face an eating disorder in their lifetime.⁵

This can range from restricting food intake, binge eating, to purging after meals. It’s not just about vanity or body image, but a deep-seated struggle with self-worth and control.

Co-Occurring Disorders: Complex Interactions

Sometimes, mental health challenges don’t come alone. 7.6% of U.S. adults, or about 19.4 million people, had both AMI (any mental illness) and an SUD (substance use disorder).

This means they’re dealing with the symptoms of a mental illness while also struggling with substance misuse. The challenges of one can often exacerbate the other, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.

Diving into Mental Health Treatment at Alternative Options: Our Differentiator

When looking for care and support in mental health, the right fit is everything. It’s about more than just treatment. It’s about finding a place that understands you, has a history of excellence, and uses a comprehensive approach.

Alternative Options has been at the forefront of this journey for many, and here’s why:

Historical Legacy and Impact

Alternative Options isn’t new in the world of mental health care. For over twenty years, we’ve been a beacon of hope for countless people in Los Angeles and the Orange County areas.

Time is a testament to effectiveness, and our longevity speaks of our dedication. With each passing year, we’ve adapted, improved, and expanded our mental health treatment services, ensuring that our methods not only meet but exceed the standards of care.

Multidisciplinary Team

No two people are the same, and their care should get tailored to their needs. At Alternative Options, you don’t just get one expert’s opinion; you get a team.

Our team includes:

Psychotherapists who delve deep into emotional and cognitive patterns.
Registered addiction specialists that understand the nuances of substance struggles.
Psychiatrists who can guide on the medical aspects of mental health.
Dietitians who ensure that the body is getting what it needs to heal.

Together, they work hand in hand, creating a mental health treatment plan that’s as unique as you are, addressing every angle of your well-being.

Treatment Spectrum

The realm of mental health treatment is vast. One of the alarming challenges in recent times is the rise in substance abuse. From 2019 to 2020, drug overdose deaths increased by 29% in the U.S.⁶

It’s a number that shakes us, and it’s a problem we’re fully equipped to tackle. Our comprehensive treatments cover:

Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and PTSD
Substance abuse and addiction-related challenges
Eating disorders from anorexia to binge eating
Co-occurring conditions
Other psychiatric disorders

Our Comprehensive Mental Health Treatment Programs: Crafting a Tailored Path to Recovery

At Alternative Options, we offer varied mental health treatment programs to best suit your unique needs. This helps ensure that you get the most effective treatment tailored just for you.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

The intensive outpatient program, often called IOP, is a step above traditional therapy sessions. While it’s less rigorous than partial hospitalization, it’s still thorough.

Our IOP provides individuals with:

Program Structure: You attend sessions for a few hours, multiple days a week. This allows for a deeper dive into mental health treatment without needing a full-day commitment.
Therapeutic Approach: During these sessions, you’ll engage in group therapy, one-on-one counseling, and other therapeutic activities.
Middle Ground: IOP is suitable for those who need more than standard therapy but aren’t in a position to commit to full-time hospitalization.
Life Balance: The flexibility of this program allows you to continue with daily activities, like work or school. You get to stay at home, making it a more comfortable option for many.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Sometimes, more intensive care is needed, but not quite to the extent of full hospitalization. That’s where the partial hospitalization program comes in:

Program Structure: A PHP is a 5-day-a-week program, spanning most of the day.
Day Structure: Despite its name, you won’t be staying overnight. Think of it as a full day of school, dedicated to your mental health treatment.
Therapeutic Approach: The program includes a mix of individual therapy, group sessions, and other therapeutic activities.

Who Can Benefit

It’s a great choice for those who need something more intensive than IOP but don’t need 24-hour hospital care. By the end of each day, you return home, allowing for a balance between intensive mental health treatment and personal time.

Outpatient Therapy

For many, the traditional outpatient therapy approach is the most suitable. It’s flexible, personal, and can be incredibly effective.

Here’s what you can expect:

Session Types: Predominantly one-on-one, but can also involve group sessions or family therapy based on needs.
Frequency: Meetings can range from once a week to several times a month.
Time Commitment: Outpatient mental health treatment is less time-intensive than an IOP or PHP, allowing for a balance with daily routines.
Customized Care: Outpatient mental health treatment offers tailored sessions for individuals, couples, or families.
Adaptability: This approach can be molded to fit your lifestyle and therapeutic requirements.

In all our programs, the focus remains on understanding you as a unique individual, recognizing your specific challenges, strengths, and goals.

Mental Health Treatment Services and Therapies at Alternative Options

At Alternative Options, we offer a variety of treatments and therapies designed to address mental health, substance abuse, and eating disorders. Each therapy type serves a unique purpose and brings its own benefits.

Behavioral and Psychological Approaches

These therapies target specific behaviors or thought patterns to enhance well-being:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a structured approach that helps you identify and change negative thought patterns. By addressing these patterns, you can alter behavior and mood. Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been shown to reduce relapse rates by 50% for depression.⁷
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT teaches coping skills to manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and decrease self-destructive behaviors. This therapy emphasizes the balance between acceptance and change.
Family System Approach: This approach addresses family dynamics and relationships. It helps families understand patterns and support a loved one in their healing process.

Artistic and Experiential Therapies

These therapies use creative outlets to help you express feelings, heal trauma, and explore personal challenges:

Art Therapy: Studies indicate that art therapy can reduce symptoms related to anxiety and depression.⁸ With a certified art therapist on staff, we help you use artistic mediums as a tool for self-expression and healing.
Music Therapy: Music therapy involves the use of musical activities to foster emotional expression, improve mental well-being, and develop social skills. Listening to or creating music can act as a therapeutic bridge, aiding in communication and relaxation.
Experiential Therapy: This therapy allows you to re-enact past experiences or situations, helping you to identify emotions and confront unresolved issues.

Supportive and Holistic Treatments

Beyond traditional therapies, we also offer supportive and holistic treatments that focus on overall well-being.

Nutritional Support and Counseling

A dietitian helps ensure that you receive proper nutrition, which is vital for mental and physical health.

Psychoeducational Groups

These groups educate you on mental health conditions and coping techniques, fostering understanding and empowerment.

Yoga and Trauma-Informed Yoga

Yoga promotes relaxation, flexibility, and mental clarity. Trauma-informed yoga is designed to be sensitive to the needs of those with traumatic experiences. One study found that trauma-sensitive yoga treatment can lead to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms.⁹

Reiki

Reiki is a healing technique that channels energy to promote healing and reduce stress.

Additional Services

At Alternative options, we offer drug testing. This ensures safety and accountability for those undergoing substance abuse treatment.

We also offer case management. Our case managers work with you to ensure you receive the necessary resources and support throughout your treatment journey.

At Alternative Options, our diverse range of treatments ensures that you have access to the tools and therapies best suited to your unique needs. We are dedicated to walking alongside you on your path to wellness.

Discover Your Path to Wellness

The journey of mental well-being requires more than a one-size-fits-all solution. Sometimes, it takes a specialized touch and understanding to truly bring a person back to their best self.

For over two decades, Alternative Options has been at the forefront of mental health, substance abuse, and eating disorder treatments in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas.

Our legacy is marked by countless stories of recovery, resilience, and rediscovery. With our state-of-the-art in-person and telehealth services, we ensure that distance or circumstance won’t stand in your way to healing.

Contact Alternative Options Today

Whether you’re taking the first step or are on a continued journey, remember: wellness is a path, and every step counts. Let us walk with you.

Reach out to us today for more information.

Mental Health & Wellness

Anxiety & Depression

Eating Disorders

Youth & Adolescent Mental Health

Trauma & PTSD

Outpatient Treatment Programs