Tips for Finding a Behavioral Health Professional in Fresno, California

According to data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately one in five adults in California experiences some form of mental illness each year. Choosing the right behavioral health professional can be a critical step in your journey towards mental and emotional well-being. Whether you’re grappling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or any other emotional challenges, the guidance of a skilled professional can make all the difference. But how do you go about finding the right behavioral health professional, especially in a place like Fresno, California? The good news is that Fresno offers a range of options, from psychiatrists and psychologists to therapists and counselors, each with their unique specialties and approaches to treatment.

The Importance of Behavioral Health

Your mental health is not just a separate box to be ticked; it’s an integral part of your overall health and well-being. Poor mental health can manifest in physical symptoms, such as headaches, sleep disorders, or digestive issues. On the other hand, good mental health can enhance your ability to make better decisions, foster positive relationships, and cope with life’s stresses more effectively.

Types of Behavioral Health Professionals

To make the right choice, it’s crucial to understand the different types of professionals available and the conditions or issues they typically treat. Here’s a breakdown to help you better understand your options:

• Psychiatrists: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. They can prescribe medication and often work on more severe conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression.
• Psychologists: Psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology and are trained to evaluate and treat mental health issues but generally cannot prescribe medication. Clinical psychologists often specialize in psychotherapy and treating emotional and mental suffering in patients with behavioral intervention.
• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW): LCSWs have a Master’s degree in social work and are trained to provide various forms of psychotherapy. They often work with patients facing life transitions, relationship issues, and stress management.
• Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT): MFTs are trained in psychotherapy and focus specifically on family and relationship issues. They can help with relationship conflicts, family dynamics, and other interpersonal issues.
• Counselors: Counselors have a Master’s degree in counseling or a related field, and they help people manage and overcome mental and emotional issues. They often focus on specific issues like substance abuse, career counseling, or trauma.
• Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC): LPCs have a Master’s degree in counseling or a related field and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They can cover a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and suicidal ideation.
• Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (CADAC): CADACs specialize in treating substance abuse and addiction. They are trained to help individuals and families with addiction issues through counseling and therapy.
• Art Therapists: Art therapists use the creative process of making art to improve and enhance the mental and emotional well-being of individuals. They often work with children, people with trauma, and those undergoing life transitions.

Finding behavioral health help in Fresno, California

The journey toward better mental and emotional well-being is a crucial aspect of overall health, and it often starts with finding the right professional to guide you. From understanding the importance of behavioral health to exploring the various types of professionals and what they offer, we’ve covered a broad spectrum of what you need to know to make an informed decision.

If you’re in Fresno, California, and are seeking behavioral health services, consider reaching out to Ascend for comprehensive and personalized care. We provide intensive outpatient mental health treatments, Fresno partial hospitalization programs,  and inpatient mental health programs. Ascend is committed to helping individuals navigate their unique challenges and offers a range of professionals—from psychiatrists and psychologists to therapists and counselors—all aimed at providing the most effective treatment for you.