Serving as the mental health and intellectual disability governing authority for Bowie, Cass, Gregg, Harrison, Marion, Panola, Red River, Rusk and Upshur counties.
Helping people and their families heal the consequences of mental illness.
Assisting people with an intellectual disability and their families achieve maximum independence in all aspects of their lives.
Providing programs and services in greater East Texas that help people lead lives free from addictions.
Commonly Treated Issues - Kids/Teens * ADHD/ADD: > Inattentive, but not hyperactive or impulsive > Hyperactive and impulsive, but able to pay attention > Inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive (the most common form of ADD/ADHD)
* Depression: > Irritability or anger > Continuous feelings of sadness, hopelessness > Social withdrawal > Changes in sleep - sleeplessness or excessive sleep > Vocal outbursts or crying > Feelings of worthlessness or guilt > Impaired thinking or concentration > Thoughts of death or suicide
* Bullying: > Frightened of walking to and from school > Changing usual route > Not wanting to ride the school bus > Begging to be driven to school > Unwilling to go to school (or to be 'school phobic'). > Frequently feeling ill in the mornings to avoid going to school > Skipping school
* Abuse: > Unexplained burns, cuts, bruises, or welts in the shape of an object > Anti-social behavior > Fear of adults > Depression > Inappropriate interest or knowledge of sexual acts > Overcompliance or excessive aggression > Unsuitable clothing for weather > Dirty or unbathed
* Chemical Use/Abuse: > Cannabis/Marijuana > Nicotine > Alcohol
Commonly Treated Issues - Adults * Depression: > Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness > Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping > Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex > Overeating or appetite loss > Constantly feeling sad, anxious, or "empty" > Thoughts of suicide
* Anxiety: > Mild or severe tension > Concentration difficulties > Negative expectations > Constant irritability > Restlessness > Paranoid or looking for danger signs > Going or feeling blank in the mind
A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.
