Behavioral Health

Behavioral health is an expansive term that includes the identification and management of mental, behavioral, substance use, and developmental disorders. Differentiating between behavioral and mental health can be complex, as many mental health conditions also manifest with symptoms related to behavior. It's common for behavioral health issues to present alongside mental health disorders. Yet, it's possible to experience behavioral challenges without being diagnosed with a specific mental health condition.

Behavioral health disorders are characterized by behaviors that are disruptive, dysfunctional, or harmful. While these behaviors might initially seem similar to common childhood issues, such as temper tantrums and aggression, they are distinctly different. Behavioral issues are marked by a consistent pattern of difficult behavior persisting for at least six months. Furthermore, these behaviors are intense enough to cause significant disruptions at home, in educational settings, and in social interactions. Examples of behavioral disorders encompass:

• Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
• Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)
• Intermittent Explosive Disorder
• Conduct Disorder

Developmental conditions like Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often fall under the category of behavioral disorders. Mental health conditions that exhibit behavioral symptoms include:

• Tic disorders
• Tourette’s Syndrome
• Anxiety disorders
• Bipolar disorder

In these instances, the disruptive behaviors associated with these disorders can profoundly affect one's mental health.

Behavioral health disorders encompass a diverse array of symptoms, with some of the most prevalent being:

• Lack of focus
• Excessive activity
• Impulsiveness
• Regular occurrences of temper tantrums
• Persistent arguing
• Defiance
• Shifting blame for personal errors
• Feelings of bitterness
• Aggressive actions
• Frequent expressions of anger
• Intimidation tactics
• Dishonesty

In more extreme instances of conduct disorder, the manifestations can extend to criminal activities, such as theft, vandalism, and inflicting injury on others or animals.

Behavioral health disorders often necessitate comprehensive, ongoing therapy, with the specific approach tailored to your diagnostic assessment, symptom intensity, and personal objectives. At your first consultation, Debra will engage in a discussion about your symptoms and the obstacles you're facing. She employs standardized questionnaires and assessments to thoroughly understand your behavior patterns, their triggers, and their effects on your life. The aim of behavioral therapies is to mitigate disruptive behaviors, with some techniques including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
• Social Learning Theory

Moreover, Debra is proficient in a variety of therapies focused on addressing trauma, providing a spectrum of strategies for treating behavioral disorders stemming from traumatic experiences.

For further details on behavioral health or to arrange a consultation, please reach out to Mayo Counseling Center, LLC, or secure your appointment online today.