•   Information and Referral: Directories, articles, and brochures about mental illness, available treatment, respite and housing options, legal and financial programs are available. We have a library of books, video cassettes and audio tapes for family use on such topics as schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and manic-depressive illness and treatment. Staff is available to talk with you, exploring ways we can meet your particular needs.  
• Consultation and Education: Individual or family guidance with a mental health professional is available by phone or in person. We provide an objective, supportive perspective for handling specific situations or general management of the illness. This consultation can take place at the agency or in your home, with day and evening hours available.
• Support Groups: We presently offer ongoing support groups to families of people with mental illness. Our Family Voice Support Group takes place on the second Thursday of every month from 10:30 a,m, to 12:00 p.m. and on the fourth Thursday of every month from 5:30 - 7:00 pm.  Please check our calendar for upcoming speakers. This is an opportunity for families to share and problem-solve with other families coping with similar situations. Guest speakers provide information on such topics as estate planning, medication, relapse prevention, and treatment resources. Families are also informed about the Alliance for the Mentally Ill self help groups in their counties. 

There is no fee for the individual consultation sessions, telephone contacts or for the educational support groups. We are committed to being available to meet the needs of all the families interested in this service.  

 

Acute Care Family Support:

Staff assist families who have a family  member being evaluated at the County Psychiatric Screening Center.  Families are educated on the illness, the screening process and the resources available to persons with mental illness in the community