Alternatives to Help Manage Your ADHD

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a common diagnosis among children, but many adults may find themselves wondering if they have ADHD. Symptoms usually show up as a child yet adults being diagnosed is not uncommon.  For many, ADHD does not stop them from living a “normal” life, but they may find it more difficult to navigate… Continue reading Alternatives to Help Manage Your ADHD

What is CBT?

A mental health diagnosis doesn’t mean your light has to darken. Those living with a mental health condition can find light with treatment and support. There are many treatment options available, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This form of psychotherapy is available to those who are uninsured or underinsured at Valley Oaks Health. The definition… Continue reading What is CBT?

What is a Support Group?

A battle with mental health doesn’t have to be a solo fight. Those living with a mental health condition can find community and healing through support groups. There are many opportunities available to those who are uninsured or underinsured at Valley Oaks Health. The definition Support groups are regularly scheduled meetings led by mental health… Continue reading What is a Support Group?

How Art Therapy Provides Healing

In the 1940s, doctors noted that individuals suffering from various mental disorders often communicated or processed emotions through artwork. This led many to explore the healing properties of art and develop a way to utilize creativity to assess and treat patients. What is art therapy?  Art therapy merges therapeutic techniques with the creative process to… Continue reading How Art Therapy Provides Healing

Therapy 101

“Therapy” can be a scary word. While some people desire to share their feelings, others may be intimidated by the thought of spilling their life story to a stranger. Social stigma and economic barriers can also make therapy seem like the wrong solution to persisting problems. But therapy can be a truly cathartic experience for… Continue reading Therapy 101

Getting Treatment on a Budget

Therapy isn’t always cheap. Nearly 12% of American adults with a diagnosed mental illness don’t have any form of health insurance. For those with coverage, therapy can still be pricey if local therapists don’t accept their particular plan or a high deductible must be reached before financial help kicks in. If you’re in a position… Continue reading Getting Treatment on a Budget

Perks of Play Therapy

Children learn a lot through play. It’s an opportunity to explore their creative side, sort out their feelings, test out ideas, and learn everything from what happens when you build a block tower too high to the result of mixing blue with yellow paint. Parents may think play as a part of therapy is a… Continue reading Perks of Play Therapy

The Relationship Between Music and Mental Health

“Music can change the world.” — Beethoven Music therapy has been studied closely in recent years, as it has been shown to significantly improve the quality of life for individuals facing everything from depression to schizophrenia. This area of research has also made significant progress in relation to Alzheimer’s, as music appears to activate the… Continue reading The Relationship Between Music and Mental Health

ADHD Treatments: 5 Really Promising Research Updates

Research into the mysteries of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is booming. By early 2017, more than 31,000 research studies and papers had been published in medical journals about this most-common childhood mental disorder that now affects an estimated one in 12 kids and teens  —and persists for one in 25 adults.  Among the most recent are a… Continue reading ADHD Treatments: 5 Really Promising Research Updates

Reduce PTSD Symptoms Through Lifestyle Changes

Successful treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often involves lifestyle changes. For many people with PTSD, taking steps to make thoughtful, healthy choices every day can help reduce symptoms and improve the overall quality of life. Exercise Regularly Talk to your health care provider before beginning an exercise program. Moderate physical activity—30 minutes on most days of the week—can improve health… Continue reading Reduce PTSD Symptoms Through Lifestyle Changes

Now Offering Primary Medical Care!

This is where a journey to better health begins; primary care includes routine examinations, general health advice, and early detection of potential problems.