Q&A
Are We Really Facing A Mental Health Crisis In The U.S., And If So, Why?
Yes, and it was exacerbated by the pandemic. People had an opportunity to evaluate what was most important to them during that time and are searching for more meaningful connections with family, friends, and the community. They desire a more fulfilling, well-rounded life. At the same time, this has caused an identity crisis, and we’re seeing patients whose well-being is affected by this. My message to all is that it’s vital to proactively seek help before depression and anxiety set in and worsen. Think of mental health care as preventive medicine that helps you find emotional well-being and be the best version of yourself before things snowball.
What’s The Main Difference Between Your Iop And Php Programs?
Sometimes people need a higher level of structured care than weekly therapy sessions. Our PHP (partial hospitalization program) provides the most intensive mental health care available without being admitted to an in-patient program. It includes four hours of group therapy five days a week, nutritional wellness, psychiatric evaluation, active medication management, and much more. Our goal is to help patients who come to us unable to manage their stability to attain a healthy level of functionality in their daily lives.
Our IOP (intensive outpatient program) helps those going through a rough patch, such as life transitions and relationship issues, meet daily living requirements before the situation becomes more acute. It offers structured therapy and support and a healing journey with more flexibility and independence than our PHP.
What Is A Dual Diagnosis Program, And Who Can Benefit From It?
Mental health disorders and substance abuse often go together. When someone struggles with stressors and mental health issues, they can be tempted to use alcohol or drugs to cope. This further impacts family and work and leads to an intertwined, downward cycle. We believe in treating the whole person versus just one aspect of their illness to help break the cycle. We use very specialized treatment methods in our IOP and PHP dual diagnosis programs at Connections Wellness Group – Arlington, led by highly skilled licensed master social workers and licensed clinical dependency counselors, designed to help patients heal and live healthy, productive lives.
Why Is Ease Of Access To Mental Health Care And Seamless Continuity Of Care So Important?
Instead of trying to find different providers in various locations, such as a therapist, a psychiatrist, and a nutritionist, we offer everything under one roof. Just one phone call gives you access to different service lines and coordination among providers. Plus, we’re in-network with almost all major medical insurances. From a provider’s point of view, it enables them to offer a higher quality of care due to ease of collaboration and open, cross-provider communication.
What Else Sets Connections Wellness Group Apart?
In addition to our innovative, integrated treatment model, we have a dynamic team of mental health professionals that work closely together, share ideas, and support one another to provide comprehensive mental health care.
About The Experts
Shauna Thornton-Herrera, LCSW
Executive Director
Connections Wellness Group - Arlington
Shauna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes all persons are deserving of peace and belonging. She earned a Bachelor of Social Work at Texas Woman’s University and a Master of Social Work at the University of Texas Arlington. Her specialties include adults, trauma, substance abuse disorder, and dual diagnosis.
Larrah Selby, MS, LPC
Connections Wellness Group - McKinney
Larrah earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology followed by a Master of Science in community/agency counseling from the University of Arkansas. She chose a career in counseling to help others achieve their best self and is passionate about breaking down the barriers to accessing mental healthcare and reducing the stigma around it.
Tiffany Reves, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR-Trained
Connections Wellness Group - Prosper
Tiffany, a licensed professional counselor and national certified counselor, is passionate about helping others as they navigate their past experiences and resolve current challenges. She earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing at the University of North Texas and a master’s in counseling at Dallas Baptist University. She is currently an adjunct professor at UNT.
