In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Deerfield Behavioral Health (DBH), part of the Journey Health System, is stepping up its efforts to highlight mental health challenges and encourage emotional well-being throughout northwestern Pennsylvania.
Since 1991, DBH has provided mental health and substance use services to residents in Erie, McKean, Forest, and Warren counties. The organization continues to support both individuals and families in need.
“Mental health affects everyone—no matter their age, background, or life situation,” said Dr. Kim Thurston, executive director of DBH. “When people talk openly about their struggles, it helps break the stigma around mental illness. Our experienced team is always ready to support both adults and youth as they heal and find strength in knowing they are not alone.”
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. lives with a mental illness. The rates are higher for women (26.4%) than for men (19.7%). These individuals could be family members, friends, coworkers—or ourselves.
To meet the region’s mental health needs, DBH offers several core services:
Therapy: Personalized sessions for individuals, couples, and families to build healthy coping strategies.
Psychiatric Contracting: Recruiting and managing psychiatric professionals to strengthen care across the Journey Health System.
Tele-psychiatry: Virtual consultations with board-certified psychiatrists and certified nurse practitioners (CRNPs) for treatment planning and medication management.
In addition to mental health care, Deerfield Centers for Drug & Alcohol Treatment offers addiction recovery programs. These include:
Assessments to determine personalized care plans.
Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient Services, with options for individual and group counseling.
Medication-Assisted Treatment for clients who need help staying on track with medications.
Certified Recovery Services, where peer specialists offer support throughout each client’s recovery.
While May is a time to focus on mental health, DBH stresses that awareness must continue beyond this month.
“Mental health awareness shouldn’t be limited to May,” said Thurston. “Every day, we should work to reduce the stigma and remind others it’s okay to not feel okay. There is always hope, and there is always help.”
DBH urges people to speak up and reach out—whether to a doctor, counselor, teacher, friend, or family member. For immediate help, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7.
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