As a city, San Francisco has a very low rate of serious mental illness. Only 3.5 percent of the population suffers from a serious condition, and the city’s ample facilities and resources for these individuals make it easy to find quality help. The University of California, San Francisco is one of the nation’s top resources for mental health care for patients of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. The university’s psychiatry department offers inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs.
San Francisco offers many specialty services for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transsexual community. It has the only school district in the United States that includes gender identity and sexual orientation issues on the middle and high school: Youth Behavior Risk Surveys. With over 13 percent of the population under age 18, it’s important to address this issue among the city’s youth. Students who identify as part of the LGBT community are at a higher risk for substance abuse, depression, and suicide.
In the diverse landscape of San Francisco, people can find specialized support for many conditions. The San Francisco chapter of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance has maintained an active presence in the city since 1986. This group offers support to people with mood disorders as well as their family and friends who may struggle to understand this type of condition.
In 2007, the Mental Health Association of San Francisco established the Institute on Compulsive Hoarding and Cluttering to provide specialized services to patients with these conditions. This group provides training for professionals so they can better treat and understand this disorder.
Most people who seek behavioral health services only need general counseling. While specialized services are readily available in San Francisco, it’s important to note that many generalized therapeutic professionals are available as well to provide services like life coaching. With over 13 percent of the population living below the poverty level and more than 5 percent unemployed, career counseling services are another option that can benefit the San Francisco community.
Thanks to the Mental Health Services Act, Proposition 63, many of California’s mental health programs now receive state funding, so they can better serve the local population. Many patients will also find that their health insurance covers some expenses associated with mental health care. When you’re looking for a therapist, it’s important to consider both your insurance coverage and your personal needs. The best therapist is not just someone on your coverage plan, but someone you feel comfortable with.
Consider your preferences in regards to the gender of your therapist and the types of treatments offered before you begin your search. With this information in mind, you’ll find that TherapyTribe has the resources you need to locate a professional who meets your ideal qualifications.