Mental health problems for adults are common. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 26.2 percent of Americans, ages 18 and older, which is about
1 in 4, suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. Mental disorders are the leading cause of disability (lost years of productive life) in the U.S. for persons aged 15-44.
Mental health disorders are health conditions involving changes in thinking, mood, and/or behavior and they are associated with distress and impaired functioning. When they are more severe they are called
mental illnesses.
Serious mental illnesses include major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and others. These medical conditions may disrupt a person’s thinking, feelings, mood, ability to relate to others and daily functioning.
Not everyone experiences a serious mental illness. Counseling services are available for anyone experiencing a mental, emotional, and behavioral problem. The first step to treatment for a mental health disorder is an initial assessment by a qualified mental health professional.
The Guidance Center's licensed mental health counselors, therapists, social workers, and psychologists work with individuals and families to develop an individualized treatment plan. Therapeutic options may include individual counseling, family counseling, group psychotherapy, day treatment and case management services. Other services available, by referral, may also include psychological testing and medication management.
For almost 40 years, the Center has developed specialized adult programs to meet the needs of the citizens in our communities. The adult speciality programs are listed below and a detailed description is listed under the Adult Services portion of this website.
Speciality Programs