Honoring National PTSD Awareness Month at bonmente Posted on June 20, 2025June 20, 2025 by bonmente June is National PTSD Awareness Month, dedicated to raising public awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Experiencing a traumatic event does not automatically give someone PTSD, and in fact many people are able to move on from such events without developing PTSD. However, the reality is that there are still millions of people living with this challenging mental health condition. PTSD can affect anyone who has gone through or witnessed a traumatic event, whether that is military combat, physical assault, accidents, natural disasters, or emotional trauma. Some demographics are more likely to develop PTSD than others. For instance, women are twice or even three times as likely to develop PTSD than men, in part because of the increased likelihood of women experiencing traumatic events like domestic violence. National PTSD Awareness Month can shed light on the message that healing is possible with the right support and treatment.What Is PTSD?Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While it is common to experience distress after a traumatic experience, PTSD involves symptoms that persist for more than a month after the traumatic event.Common Symptoms of PTSDIntrusive memories: flashbacks, nightmares, or unwanted thoughts about the trauma; these can be frighteningly realistic so that it can indeed feel like it is happening againAvoidance: steering clear of places, people, or situations that remind the person of the trauma; not wanting to think or talk about the trauma is also common, and may make the condition worse because it leaves symptoms and conflicts unaddressedNegative changes in thinking and mood: feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, emotional numbness, detachment, estrangement, paranoia, and losing interest in things that used to be interesting; a common issue is coming to believe falsehoods about the cause or consequences of the trauma, perhaps even blaming oneself for itChanges in physical and emotional reactions: easily startling, feeling tense or irritable, impulsivity or heedless risk-seeking, distractibility, having trouble sleeping, difficulty concentratingThese symptoms must last more than a month and significantly affect one’s daily functioning, or cause significant distress, to merit a PTSD diagnosis.PTSD Is More Common Than You Might ThinkAcross the world population, approximately 4% has had post-traumatic stress disorder at some point. PTSD is commonly seen in: Veterans and military personnelFirst respondersSurvivors of abuse and violencePeople who have experienced medical trauma or chronic illnessRefugees and immigrants exposed to conflict or persecutionCommunities who have experienced natural disastersMental Health Care Treatments for PTSDPTSD is a treatable mental health disorder, and many patients achieve remission with therapy or a combination of therapy and medication. Some PTSD-specific treatments that are useful include:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns related to trauma, gaining better control over one’s mindsetProlonged Exposure Therapy (PE): Gradually exposes individuals to trauma-related stimuli and cues to reduce avoidance and help manage symptomsEye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements to help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories; the eye movements can actually reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memoriesTrauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT): For instances of early trauma, this treatment specifically helps children, adolescents, and caregiversMedication: In some cases, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can help manage symptoms, especially in combination with therapyAt bonmente, our clinicians work collaboratively with patients to create personalized treatment plans that meet patients where they are.PTSD and Co-Occurring ConditionsPTSD often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, including:DepressionInsomniaAnxiety disordersSubstance-use disordersBipolar disorderThese co-occurring conditions can complicate diagnosis and treatment but addressing them together leads to more comprehensive and effective care. Bonmente offers integrated treatment approaches that consider the whole case, not just isolated symptoms.Virtual Care and PTSD TreatmentAccessibility is a major factor in successful mental health treatment. At bonmente, we offer telepsychiatry that makes it easier than ever for individuals with PTSD to receive care from the safety and comfort of their own space without having to worry about commutes. Telepsychiatry and teletherapy have revolutionized the way mental health care is delivered. For many individuals with PTSD, this can help them stay in treatment with greater consistency. Another benefit of telepsych treatment is that it expands access to patients in rural areas or places with limited or even no access to high-quality mental health care services.The team at bonmente has professionals licensed to provide telepsychiatry services in the state of California, and some can treat patients in Florida and Arizona as well. So, if you are anywhere in California, you can receive bonmente’s services so long as you have the necessary technology (internet connectivity and a device supporting videoconferencing or audio calls). What’s more, e-prescribing makes medication management easier than ever. We can remotely fill a prescription that you can pick up at a local pharmacy of your choice. Reach out to bonmente for professional PTSD treatment.
Online Psychiatrists Are Changing Mental Health Care Posted on June 20, 2025June 20, 2025 by bonmente Online psychiatry expands access to mental health support because of telepsychiatry’s convenience. Virtual psychiatric care is transforming how individuals receive treatment for conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and more.At bonmente, accessible mental health care is necessary for treating as many patients as possible, so online psychiatry is a critical evolution in healthcare delivery.What Is Online Psychiatry?Online psychiatry, or telepsychiatry, delivers psychiatric care through digital platforms. As an alternative to seeing a psychiatrist in person, patients connect with a licensed provider via secure video-conference tools, phone calls, or even asynchronous messaging.U.S. telepsychiatrists must be licensed to serve patients in particular states. However, that license extends across the entire state, expanding the reach of the psychiatrist. So, bonmente’s telepsychiatrists licensed in California are able to serve patients from anywhere in the state. Though we are physically a Long Beach, CA, psychiatric practice, we can treat patients well beyond that city. Our team also has professionals licensed in Florida and Arizona. What Can Online Psychiatrists Do? Telepsych services include many of those in traditional practices, including:Collaboration with therapists and primary-care providersPsychiatric evaluations and diagnoses of mental health conditions Medication prescriptionMedication managementSupport for conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and moreFollow-up care and treatment adjustmentsThe Growing Need for Accessible Mental Health CareMental health challenges affect one in five adults in the United States each year. Despite the prevalence, many individuals face significant barriers when seeking help:Stigma around mental illnessGeographic limitations, particularly in rural areasBusy schedules and limited time for appointmentsProvider shortages, especially for specialized careTransportation issues or physical limitationsSo long as the patient has access to an internet connection, online psychiatry makes mental health services more convenient and accessible.Benefits of Seeing an Online PsychiatristGreater Accessibility: Telepsychiatry is especially useful for individuals living in areas where finding a mental health provider nearby might be nearly impossible. With online options, patients can connect with top-tier psychiatrists without traveling hours for an appointment.Convenience and Flexibility: Busy work schedules, childcare responsibilities, or health concerns can make it difficult to attend in-person appointments. Online psychiatry offers flexible scheduling and eliminates commute times, and so is easier to fit into daily life.Continuity of Care: Moving to a new city, losing access to transportation, or facing unexpected schedule changes are not as big of an issue with online care. Continuity of treatment enables sessions to happen from virtually anywhere the provider is licensed to treat. Privacy and Reduced Stigma: Some patients feel more comfortable discussing sensitive mental health issues in a virtual context. Receiving care from home or another personal space can reduce feelings of exposure and make it easier to open up.Efficient Follow-Up and Medication Management: For patients on medication, online psychiatry is efficient for ongoing care, monitoring side effects, and titration in treatment plans without long delays between appointments. The e-prescribing component of bonmente’s telepsych platform makes it highly convenient, as we can remotely fill your prescription so that you can pick up your medication from your preferred pharmacy. Common Conditions Treated by Online PsychiatristsOnline psychiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including:DepressionGeneralized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)Panic DisorderSocial AnxietyObsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)Bipolar DisorderPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)ADHDInsomniaSubstance-Use Disorders Depending on the treatment plan we create for the patient, online care may involve talk therapy, behavioral recommendations, medication management, or a combination of approaches.Are Online Psychiatrists Different from In-Person Psychiatrists?Licensed professionals must meet the same educational, licensing, and board certifications as in-person providers. At bonmente, our team of fully licensed board-certified psychiatrists are trained to provide high-quality ethical care in a virtual context.Before booking with any online psychiatrist, be sure to verify:Platform security and HIPAA complianceLicensure in your stateSpecializations that align with your needsWhether they can prescribe medicationsWhat Happens in an Online Psychiatry Appointment?If you get telepsychiatric treatment from bonmente, here is what to expect when you just start out: Initial Assessment: The first session involves a thorough psychiatric evaluation. The psychiatrist asks questions about symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, mental health goals, and other relevant topics.Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation, the psychiatrist may provide a diagnosis and outline a personalized treatment plan. The plan could include medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or referrals to other specialists.Ongoing Care: Follow-up appointments are typically shorter and focus on how you are responding to treatment, any side effects, and whether changes are needed. If sessions with a therapist or psychiatrist are part of your treatment plan, then that may be necessary. Online platforms make it easier to schedule and maintain these ongoing check-ins.Is Online Psychiatry Covered by Insurance?Coverage depends on your provider and state. When you partner with bonmente, our team can verify whether your coverage extends to our telepsych services. Many online psychiatry services are now covered by insurance plans, thanks in part to the popularization of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Your mental health matters. Schedule an appointment with bonmente today!
Long Beach Mental Health Services Posted on November 1, 2024November 4, 2024 by GuardianOwl For many people, getting high-quality mental health care, including Long Beach mental health services, is crucial to their wellbeing. In some cases, it is a matter of life and death. Life in Long Beach, in Los Angeles, and in California in general comes with a unique set of stressors. The density of living in the Golden State can cause some people to isolate themselves to get some “breathing room.” Congested traffic – and the road rage it sparks – often adds some extra anxiety to going anywhere. Although California is an amazing place for its acceptance of different lifestyles and cultures, its residents encounter social problems, such as homelessness, substance abuse, and public mental health crises, that affect our everyday lives in unusual ways. Stress takes its toll on mental health, even in sunny California. If you live in or near Long Beach, California, you can find a comprehensive range of mental health services at bonmente. Understanding your options is important for making informed decisions about your mental health care journey.Whether you’re seeking urgent care, ongoing therapy, or telepsychiatry options, this blog post runs down what you can get with bonmente. We are located in the Long Beach area, and offer telepsychiatry options for patients anywhere in California. Getting Started with a Psychiatric EvaluationWhen mental health support is needed, it is not always the case that people know exactly what condition(s) they need help for.Our Long Beach, California clinic provides psychiatric evaluations that serve as the first step to professional help. Our experienced team provides expert assessments that consider each individual’s history and current state. We do so to design an appropriate care plan for addressing mental health issues.A proper psychiatric evaluation can function as a welcome intervention for individuals experiencing acute problems concerning mental health. Our team works diligently to provide comprehensive treatment plans while developing appropriate follow-up care plans that ensure continued support, which may include medication management.Our Long Beach Mental Health ClinicWe are proud that bonmente continues to be a pillar of community mental health support in Long Beach, Ca. We provide essential services that address a wide spectrum of mental health needs. For many in Long Beach, Ca., bonmente serves as a primary resource for comprehensive services. That includes individualized therapy sessions, group counseling programs, and specialized treatment approaches.We excel in providing continuous care through:Ongoing mental health monitoring and adjustment of treatment plansPatient-centric individual therapy sessions that address personal needsAdvanced medication management servicesBy design, the bonmente environment yields healing and growth with professionals who understand the complexities of mental health challenges. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or more complex psychiatric needs, our facility offers both short-term and long-term treatment options that adapt to each patient’s situation.Connecting to a bonmente Psychiatrist in Long BeachThe team of psychiatrists at bonmente’s Long Beach facility represents a diverse group of mental health professionals. They offer various treatment approaches and specializations. Our psychiatrist care includes:Expert psychiatric evaluationsIndividualized treatment planningDetailed medication managementConsistent progress monitoringCrisis intervention when neededFlexible appointment schedulingInsurance considerations matter in accessing psychiatric care. At bonmente, we handle determining your care’s eligibility for coverage based on your insurance plan. We get that straightened out so that you can focus on getting the care you need. Telepsychiatry in CaliforniaThe emergence of telepsychiatry has transformed mental health care access throughout California. If you are a California resident, you do not need to live anywhere near our Long Beach facility to access our services. That is all thanks to telepsychiatry, which offers innovative solutions for treatment delivery. This modern approach to psychiatric care provides numerous advantages:Easier coordination for follow-up careImmediate access to mental health professionals from homeMitigation of travel-related barriersScheduling flexibilityMaintained privacy and confidentialityConsistent care quality comparable to in-person visitsReduced wait times for appointmentsThrough telepsychiatry services, patients can receive comprehensive care including initial evaluations, medication management, and regular follow-up appointments. This service proves particularly valuable for individuals with mobility challenges, busy schedules, or those who simply prefer the convenience of remote care.Accessing Mental Health Services in Long Beach, CaliforniaNavigating the mental health care system requires understanding the steps involved in accessing services. To begin your mental health care journey in Long Beach, California, consider reaching out to bonmente. Not only do we offer a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and collaborative treatment plans, we take care of things like finding out the details of your insurance coverage. Our plan is to offer treatment that is convenient and helpful for your wellness journey. Prevention and WellnessOur mental health services emphasize both treatment and prevention through comprehensive wellness programs. These initiatives include:Early intervention strategiesOngoing mental wellness supportPrevention education and resourcesThese preventive measures help individuals maintain good mental health while providing tools for managing daily stressors effectively.Getting Help for Mental Health in Long Beach, CaliforniaBonmente’s extensive mental health services provide robust support for Long Beach, Ca. residents throughout their mental health journey. From initial psychiatric evaluations to long-term wellness maintenance, bonmente offers multiple pathways to mental health care. Whether choosing traditional in-person visits or modern telepsychiatry solutions, patients can find resources that match their specific needs and preferences.Remember that seeking mental health support demonstrates strength and self-awareness. If you or someone you know requires assistance, Long Beach’s mental health community stands ready to provide professional, compassionate care. Your mental health journey matters, and bonmente’s comprehensive mental health services are designed to support you every step of the way. For Long Beach mental health care and beyond, don’t hesitate to reach out to bonmente for support!
