Mental Health

Improve your mental and emotional health

At Vancouver Clinic, we believe mental and physical health are intertwined. Our doctors and staff use a team approach to treat and support adult patients with mental health concerns. Our Mental Health Department is part of our larger Primary Care Department, allowing primary care physicians and mental health providers to easily collaborate on a complete treatment plan.

We care for patients with a variety of conditions and in a range of situations—from people dealing with anxiety or depression, to veterans grappling with PTSD, to mothers who need support during their postpartum period.

Vancouver Clinic Mental Health only accepts referrals from Vancouver Clinic clinicians. If you need mental health support, ask your Vancouver Clinic doctor or provider for a referral.

We support a variety of mental health concerns, including but not limited to:

• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Psychotic disorders

We primarily offer medication management appointments. However, our providers may also incorporate elements of psychotherapy into the treatment, depending on each patient’s unique situation.

What will happen during my first appointment?

Initial appointments are one hour each. Our providers will ask you a thorough set of questions in order to get to know you and your situation. We’ll cover how you’re feeling in the moment, how you’re feeling about your relationships with others, and more. Our evaluation will cover:

• Current stressors
• Family history
• Medical history
• Past psychiatric history
• Social history
• Labs and/or imaging studies as needed.

While you’re with us, we’ll ask you to talk only about what you are comfortable sharing. We want you to be frank and open while feeling safe and supported. You are welcome to bring a friend or family member with you.

What kind of insurance do you accept?

We accept most insurance plans. Please check with your insurance provider, or call our Patient Services Center at 360-882-2778 for assistance. Your copay, if you have one, is due at the time of service.

Do you ever provide services outside of regular business hours or outside of your office?

We do not currently see patients outside of business hours or outside the office.

Do you offer therapy?

Our psychiatrists are trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive psychotherapy, and other evidence-based techniques and can incorporate these principles into treatment. We have care managers who provide therapy appointments to patients in our Collaborative Care Program. Care managers work closely with patients and their primary care providers to implement a treatment plan and help identify if medications are working as they should. Care managers also consult with clinic psychiatrists to discuss care options and patient progress. If your provider feels you will benefit from weekly psychotherapy, he or she will work with you to identify a therapist. In addition, our social workers offer longer term therapy support apart from the Collaborative Care Program. Patients are referred to them through our psychiatrists.

Do you prescribe medications?

Yes, our psychiatrists can prescribe psychiatric medications. Your provider will work with you to determine if medication is the right option.

Will my information be kept confidential?

Your information will always be kept confidential. Confidentiality is the cornerstone of successful collaboration between you and your provider. It is also required by law. As providers, we are always happy to include your family, but only with your consent.

Are mental health and behavioral disorders treatable?

Mental health disorders are treatable, often with a combination of medication and therapy. There are many people who live successful and fulfilling lives with appropriate treatment.

Do you have crisis counseling?

If you are in the middle of a crisis and are thinking of suicide or of harming others, go to the ER, call 9-1-1, or talk to a family member or friend so you can get to a safe place immediately. If there are no immediate safety concerns, contact your mental health provider as soon as possible to discuss what is going on and how to best treat it.

After business hours, you can access the Clark County Mental Health Crisis Line at (800) 626-8137 or (360) 696-9560. Lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to take crisis calls from children, adolescents, and adults.

When you first meet with your provider, he or she will work on a safety plan with you so you know what to do in the event of an emergency.