What is behavioral health care?

Behavioral health care includes treatments for both mental health and substance abuse or addiction problems. Treatment services are provided by a variety of health care providers including psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, counselors, nurses, therapeutic recreation specialists, case managers, and life skill trainers.

Can I get medications for my behavioral health problem?

Yes, but due to our limited amount of psychiatry resources, CBH typically offers psychiatric evaluations (required for medication) only in conjunction with some type of CBH clinical service. In other words, in most cases you must first see a therapist or case manager in order to have an evaluation scheduled with the doctor for medication.

How do I get services for my loved one, who will not seek treatment?

CBH’s Emergency Services meets with friends and family members who are concerned about the welfare of a person who is having psychiatric problems. Staff can help family members by discussing their concerns, strategizing about ways to encourage the person to seek treatment, and assessing the need for psychiatric hospitalization. If needed, CBH can assist with legal procedures necessary to force a mental health assessment.

What should I do if I am worried that someone might hurt himself or herself or someone else?

You should call the police if you believe there is an imminent threat of harm. If there is no imminent threat of harm or you are not sure, you can call and talk to one of our Emergency Service staff, who will assist you in trying to figure out what to do next.

Do you come out to people's homes?

CBH offers a variety of office-based, community-based, and home-based services. Typically, though, the initial evaluation occurs in one of our office settings.

How long does treatment last?

Length of treatment varies greatly from person to person and depends on the problems being addressed. The CBH Access Center, as well as the therapist conducting your initial assessment, will be able to give you some idea of how long your treatment might last.

Can I be ordered by the court system into your treatment?

When people are convicted of criminal offenses, the court may order them into treatment intended to help them avoid subsequent offenses. Treatment is usually a condition of probation and an alternative to being jailed. The probation officer must notify the court of any violations of the conditions of probation, including treatment compliance. A court hearing is then held to determine what consequences, if any, are appropriate.

A court may also order either inpatient or outpatient treatment, through a non-criminal process called a mental health commitment hearing, to ensure the safety and well-being of that person or others. The Center must inform the court of any changes in treatment, in treatment compliance, and discharge from treatment when it is no longer necessary.

Do you offer financial assistance for low-income persons seeking treatment?

Yes, we offer reduced client co-pays through funding we receive from the State Department of Mental Health. We accept Medicaid and can assist you in determining if you are eligible, as well as instruct you on how to get enrolled.

I’m not really in crisis, but I need to talk to someone.

Emergency clinicians have to remain available for emergencies. Continuing counseling at our Center can be arranged by calling the number of the Center office nearest you. General supportive services are available locally through the Mental Health Association’s Listening Line hotline (812) 332-6060.

Do I have to say who I am?

Yes. As a medical facility, we are required to document contacts we have with clients. At a minimum, we need name and date of birth or Social Security number. However, all information you provide is confidential and protected from disclosure under state and federal statutes that govern the release of medical information.