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Wellstar Behavioral Health

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Emotional and behavioral health plays an important role in our overall wellness. That’s why Wellstar Behavioral Health provides whole-person care that considers every part of your well-being.

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About


Creating access to the right care, for the right problem, at the right time, Wellstar’s Behavioral Health services are integrated throughout the health system. Whether care is sought through the Emergency Department, in an acute care setting due to a primary medical condition or through primary care, pediatric clinics, or specialty care services, our team of behavioral health experts are prepared to offer world-class treatment to meet your needs.

Specialized Care


  • Adult Mental Health
  • Behavioral Medicine
  • Clinical Neuropsychology
  • Primary Care-Behavioral Health Integration
  • Suicide Prevention Program

Adult Mental Health

Inpatient Behavioral Health Treatment
Wellstar offers inpatient psychiatric care for patients ages 18 and older who are experiencing acute symptoms of psychiatric illness and/or a substance use disorder. Conditions treated include, but are not limited to, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Inpatient hospitalization involves 24-hour care under the treatment of an attending psychiatrist and other members of a multi-disciplinary team. Following stabilization of the psychiatric crisis, patients are connected with outpatient resources for follow up.

For more information regarding Wellstar’s inpatient behavioral health services, call our Behavioral Health Assessment & Resource Center (BH ARC) at 470-956-8710. If you are experiencing an acute psychiatric crisis, please call 988
 
Interventional Psychiatry
Includes a variety of medical treatments that are intended to help stabilize treat an acute psychiatric illness. Examples of interventional psychiatry methods offered by Wellstar include the following: 
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Provided either in an inpatient or outpatient setting, ECT is a treatment for relief of major depression, catatonia, and (at times) bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Typically offered when other traditional approaches to treatment have been unsuccessful, ECT involves a brief electrical stimulation of the brain while the patient is under anesthesia.
Esketamine
Administered only in a healthcare setting, esketamine is an alternative to traditional antidepressant medication. It is a prescription medication used in combination with an antidepressant for situations in which urgent treatment is needed or when traditional approaches to care have been unsuccessful.

Behavioral Medicine

Services aimed to provide evaluation and treatment for patients presenting with co-occurring medical and emotional/behavioral problems. Diagnosis and treatment are approached through a biopsychosocial model, ensuring holistic care that accounts for the complexities of managing acute and chronic illness. Examples of programmatic offerings include the following:
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Metabolic Behavioral Medicine
  • Obesity Medicine
  • Psycho-gastroenterology
  • Psychosocial Oncology
  • Somatic Symptom or Medically-Unexplained (Functional) Disorders

Clinical Neuropsychology

Neuropsychologists are brain-behavior experts. This means that neuropsychologists can be helpful in diagnosing neurocognitive conditions, understanding their impact, and providing treatment recommendations aimed at maximizing functioning, quality of life, and overall brain-health. Our neuropsychologists conduct adult and pediatric neuropsychological evaluations in outpatient setting, as well as provide both outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation services. 

Across services we treat the person not just the diagnosis and have an appreciation for the multitude of factors that can impact neurocognitive functioning and quality of life. We provide a comfortable environment and serve with the empathy and compassion we would have for a family member.  

Learn More

Primary Care-Behavioral Health Integration

This is an integrated behavioral health program that offers full integration into primary care/family practices. Integration is supported via co-location of a licensed behavioral health provider into the clinic, as well as by modification of workflows and the provision of brief, evidence-based care to patients with low-to-moderate acuity psychiatric needs as well as patients with chronic conditions that are mediated by behavioral and psycho-social factors.
  • Pediatric Integration
  • Primary Care Integration

Suicide Prevention Program

Suicides can be prevented, and it is vital to have a system-wide commitment to reducing suicides. Safe suicide care starts the moment a patient walks through the door for the first time, long before a patient may interact with a behavioral health team member. It is essential that we train a competent, confident, and caring workforce to identify and support patients who may be at risk of suicide while they receive care from us.

Zero Suicide is several things: an aspirational goal designed to catalyze transformational change, a suicide care model with specific practices for health systems to employ, and a movement seeking to make health care settings safer and more compassionate for people with suicidal thoughts and urges. Zero Suicide is a way to improve suicide care within health care systems. The foundational belief of Zero Suicide is that suicide deaths for individuals under the care of health care systems are preventable. Zero Suicide represents a culture shift away from fragmented suicide care toward a holistic and comprehensive approach to patient safety and quality improvement. Asking directly about suicide and responding appropriately should and could be as routine as having blood pressure, height and weight checked at every health care visit.

The Zero Suicide Core Elements align with Wellstar’s values to guide our work to improve patient outcomes and save lives.

Video Resources


Admissions and Referrals

In the event of a mental health emergency, please go to the nearest emergency room.

We accept admissions to our inpatient program 24 hours a day. You can reach our Behavioral Health Assessment & Resource Center anytime. Referrals can be made by doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, family members or friends.

(470) 732-3789

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Residency Training Programs

Learn more about our Wellstar Behavioral Health Residency Training Programs.

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Services


Conditions We Treat
  • Anxiety (mild-to-moderate)
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Depression (mild-to-moderate)
  • General stress
     
  • Generalized anxiety disorder
  • Major depressive disorder
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Post-traumatic stress (mild-to-moderate)
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
     
  • Schizophrenia
  • Sleep problems
  • Substance abuse
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Tobacco use
Well Starts with Mental Health

Well Starts with Mental Health

While you may make sure you eat healthy, get your exercise and see your doctor to keep up with your physical health, it’s important to check in on your mental health, too. Wellstar offers a full range of behavioral health services close to home in convenient locations, so you can feel your best both physically and mentally.

Learn more
A bicycle, water bottle, and healthy food items.

Habits to Become the Healthiest You

Small changes add up to big results. By incorporating simple habits into your life, you can kickstart your wellness journey and stay on track for the long run.

Learn more
-Well Starts with Spring Screenings

Well Starts with Spring Screenings

To feel your best this spring and beyond, we’re sharing our top tips to help keep you healthy.

Learn more
John and Janin standing on their front porch

John&JaninCare

If “adventure” were a gene, John Petrick surely passed it on to his daughter, Janin. But one thing they never expected to have in common was a rare heart condition.

Read their story
Man breathing deeply

COVID-19: Taking Care of Your Mental Health

In the wake of the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak, many people may feel anxiety or stress. Handling strong emotions is a normal response, according to Wellstar health experts.

Learn more
Illustration of a woman practicing yoga under a rainbow.

Maintain Your Mental Health During the Holidays

If you find the holiday season overwhelming, you’re not alone. Wellstar experts say many people may have strong emotions at this time of year, especially since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Learn more

Locations


Currently showing 7 total listed locations
Wellstar Psychological Services
55 Whitcher Street NE
Suite 350
Marietta, GA 30060
Closed • Opens at 9:00 AM
Phone: (770) 514-6760
mi away
3078
Psychological Services
33.96682
-84.55132
Wellstar Psychological Services
55 Whitcher Street NE
Suite 420
Marietta, GA 30060
Closed • Opens at 9:00 AM
Phone: (770) 514-6760
mi away
2702
Psychological Services
33.96682
-84.55132
Wellstar Psychiatry
2540 Windy Hill Road SE
Marietta, GA 30067
Closed • Opens at 9:00 AM
Phone: (770) 644-1570
mi away
2218
Psychiatry
33.89985
-84.47992
Wellstar Psychological Services
3939 Roswell Road
Suite 200
Marietta, GA 30062
Phone: (470) 956-3940
mi away - None
14612
Psychological Services
33.97863
-84.43659
Wellstar Psychological Services
355 Tower Road NE
Suite 203
Marietta, GA 30060
Phone: (470) 267-1580
mi away - None
13906
Psychological Services
33.96968
-84.55605
Wellstar Psychiatry
1625 Hospital North Drive
Austell, GA 30106
Phone: (770) 732-6950
mi away - None
14268
Psychiatry
33.8575
-84.60169
Wellstar East Paulding Pediatric Center
51 Hiram Drive
Building B
Hiram, GA 30141
Closed • Opens at 8:00 AM
Phone: (678) 945-8300
mi away
2280
East Paulding Pediatric Center
33.90374
-84.77505

For more accurate listings be sure to enable location services.

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Wellstar Psychological Services

55 Whitcher Street NE
Suite 350
Marietta, GA 30060
mi away
Phone: (770) 514-6760

Wellstar Psychological Services

55 Whitcher Street NE
Suite 420
Marietta, GA 30060
mi away
Phone: (770) 514-6760

Wellstar Psychiatry

2540 Windy Hill Road SE
Marietta, GA 30067
mi away
Phone: (770) 644-1570

Wellstar Psychological Services

3939 Roswell Road
Suite 200
Marietta, GA 30062
mi away
Phone: (470) 956-3940

Wellstar Psychological Services

355 Tower Road NE
Suite 203
Marietta, GA 30060
mi away
Phone: (470) 267-1580

Wellstar Psychiatry

1625 Hospital North Drive
Austell, GA 30106
mi away
Phone: (770) 732-6950

Wellstar East Paulding Pediatric Center

51 Hiram Drive
Building B
Hiram, GA 30141
mi away
Phone: (678) 945-8300

News


Related articles
Illustration of person meditating with cat. Text reads "Well starts with mindful mental health"

Highlights

Well Starts with Mindful Mental Health

Your body supports you in everything you do, from everyday activities like grocery shopping to milestones and memories with friends and family. 

But while you may make sure you eat healthy, get your exercise and see your doctor to keep up with your physical health, it’s important to check in on your mental health, too. 

Wellstar offers a full range of behavioral health services close to home in convenient locations, so you can feel your best both physically and mentally.

Meeting you where you are

If you’re dealing with feelings of anxiety and depression, you may turn to your primary care physician or another healthcare provider for help. Wellstar is removing barriers to behavioral healthcare by integrating those services into many of our locations. 

On-site behavioral health providers work at many of our primary care and specialty clinics, making it a little easier to take that first step in improving your mental health. Wellstar also provides access to on-site and virtual behavioral health specialists in hospital emergency departments and on the medical floors.

“We know that patients are already struggling with stigma, and sometimes it takes a lot for a patient to come into care with a behavioral health professional, and we wanted to remove that stigma,” said Dr. Ryan Breshears, Wellstar’s chief behavioral health officer.

About 1 in 3 patients with a physical health condition also could benefit from some form of mental health support, Dr. Breshears said. Wellstar’s providers work together across specialties to ensure each patient receives “whole person care” – addressing both their mental and physical well-being.

“When you address the mental health components that an individual is dealing with, you’re going to improve the physical outcomes,” Dr. Breshears said. “In the same way, if you address the physical health outcomes, you’re probably going to provide care that improves the mental health outcomes as well.”

Wellstar Psychologist Dr. Shawn Coyne works with cardiac patients to provide that whole person care to patients like John Petrick and his daughter Janin as they adjust to cardiac diagnoses. 

Cardiac health and behavioral health are closely tied, Dr. Coyne said – if someone is depressed, they are twice as likely to have a cardiac health issue or twice as likely to experience a second cardiac event. Heart patients are also three times as likely to be depressed as the general population.

In addition to cardiovascular behavioral medicine, Wellstar also offers several other specialized programs to assist patients with the mental and emotional challenges of a medical condition: 

  • Metabolic behavioral medicine, for patients with metabolic conditions or who have received bariatric surgery
  • Psycho-gastroenterology to provide support to gastrointestinal patients
  • Psychosocial oncology to help patients adjust to cancer treatment
  • Somatic symptom disorders for people experiencing unexplained physical symptoms that may be caused or impacted by stress

With Wellstar’s PeopleCare approach, providers tailor care to each patient, taking the time to get to know their needs and create a customized care plan.

“You as the patient are part of the treatment team,” Dr. Coyne said. “You are involved, you can participate, you give feedback, you engage and we get a better end product when we work as a strong team.”

To learn more about outpatient behavioral health services, call (770) 644-1570.

Compassionate inpatient care

If you or a loved one requires immediate care for a behavioral health condition, our inpatient behavioral health units provide 24-hour care for adults ages 18 and older.

Inpatient behavioral health services include round-the-clock monitoring, medication management, individual and group therapy, and educational resources for both the patient and their family.

If you have questions, you can reach our Behavioral Health Assessment & Resource Center anytime at (470) 732-3789. However, in the case of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Learn more about Wellstar’s behavioral health services.

Keep reading
Provider speaking with patient. Text reads "make health your habit"

Highlights

Make Health Your Habit

With the holiday season now behind us, people look forward to the fresh start of the New Year and all the possibilities it brings. For many of us, that means setting resolutions to live a healthy, full life.

Without the proper planning and support, however, these ambitions can quickly be put off or even forgotten. This year, it’s time to break the cycle and make progress toward your goals.

By following tips from Wellstar health experts, you can create realistic resolutions and better your health — making healthy choices a lifelong habit rather than a short-term goal.

Partner with a Wellstar provider

When it comes to your wellness goals, staying healthy starts with a visit to your Wellstar primary care provider.

Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Nitasha Burney-Fleming shared why regular appointments are vital for your well-being.

“Primary care providers partner with patients to help them meet their wellness goals — in a realistic, healthy way that is tailored to their individual needs and lifestyles,” Dr. Burney-Fleming said. “Your provider can help you keep up-to-date on screenings and vaccines so you can stay ahead of health issues and illnesses.”

To check your health status and screen for potential medical issues, your provider will take your Foundational 4 numbers for:

  • Blood pressure. A blood pressure test helps diagnose hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), heart disease and other conditions.
  • Blood glucose level. The amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood can indicate the onset of diabetes or risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
  • Blood cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called “bad” cholesterol, can indicate clogged arteries, which may lead to heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
  • Body mass index (BMI). A higher level of body fat may indicate an increased risk for heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes.

The screenings your provider recommends will vary based on your gender, age and other factors such as family history. 

Personalized OB/GYN care for women

“Gynecologists partner with women in their healthcare across the lifespan,” said Dr. LeThenia “Joy” Baker, a Wellstar obstetrician and gynecologist. “The first gynecologic visit is recommended between 13 and 15, and the first exam between 18 and 21.”

Gynecologists are uniquely positioned to care for women from adolescence through menopause and beyond. “We’ll make sure you are up-to-date on screenings like mammograms and Pap smears, help you make informed decisions about family planning and fertility, and provide medical and surgical treatment for a variety of conditions affecting the female reproductive system,” Dr. Baker said.

Primary care, anywhere

In addition to in-person primary care visits, Wellstar also offers virtual care options. Connect with your Wellstar provider over the phone or with video on a computer, smartphone or tablet. 

“While primary care physicians help patients meet long-term wellness goals, we’re also here for you when you’re sick,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Georgia Forrest. “Your primary care provider is already familiar with your background and health needs, so we can seamlessly continue that care and help you get back on track when you’re ill.”

If you need to see a specialist such as a cardiologist, pulmonologist or neurologist, your primary care provider will refer you for that specialized care while continuing to help you manage your overall wellness.

“Through Wellstar’s patient portal MyChart, specialists and primary care physicians can see test results and visit summaries and stay updated on how each of us is working with the patient,” Dr. Forrest said.

For more immediate healthcare needs that are not life-threatening, you can talk to a provider with WellstarON, our virtual urgent care. 

In an emergency, such as if you are having trouble breathing or experiencing chest pain, call 911.

Learn more about the different types of care Wellstar offers and where to go if you’re not feeling well.

Become your healthiest you in the New Year

Whether your resolution is to lose weight, better manage a chronic condition or be more active, your healthcare provider is a great source of support. They will work with you to create a personalized plan to help you succeed

Ready to tackle your wellness goals this year? Book an appointment with a Wellstar primary care provider today.

Get moving to stay well

If you’re focused on improving your fitness routine, put a plan in place to be more active. According to Dr. Burney-Fleming, consistency is key to success.

“Do something that raises your heart rate 45 minutes a day, at least five to six days a week,” Dr. Burney-Fleming said. “Find an activity you enjoy, like dancing, biking or swimming, and gradually work it into your routine so it becomes a regular habit.”

For those looking to slim down, your healthcare provider can help jumpstart your health journey with a tailored diet and exercise plan. That way, healthy habits become second nature.

Set a sleep routine

Having a bedtime routine is essential to catch more Zzzs over the year. When you wake up feeling rested, you often feel more productive and energized throughout the day.

Get started by setting a specific time to go to sleep — and sticking to it. Make sure you reserve at least seven to nine hours per night for sleep.

Limit your screen time before getting in bed. Bright screens from a phone, computer or TV can keep your brain awake and make it harder to fall asleep.

If you’re having trouble getting to sleep, have a decaffeinated cup of tea or take a warm bath to help you relax.

Eat a balanced diet

When it comes to losing weight, many people look for a “quick fix,” which can often create unhealthy ways of eating. Creating a healthy eating plan from the start can help avoid any fad diet pitfalls.

Nutrition plans that restrict or eliminate food groups and those with extreme calorie deficits are difficult to maintain and can often produce more weight gain or undesired results. Diet trends can also create a negative relationship with food, which can make it harder to achieve your goals. 

A healthy nutrition plan is balanced and emphasizes whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.

Try not to overcomplicate healthy eating. Focus on starting with small changes like filling half your plate with vegetables or having fun trying new recipes.

Take care of your mental health

Self-care is an important aspect of your mental well-being and should be made a consistent part of each day.

“Just like exercising and a healthy diet strengthen your physical health, self-care enhances your mental well-being,” said Dr. Pooja Dave, a Wellstar psychologist. 

Take time for activities you enjoy, whether that means visiting with friends or family or a hobby like reading or cooking.

If you feel overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, Wellstar’s behavioral health specialists are here for you.

“Mental health professionals are trained to provide compassionate, expert care. We’ll take the time to get to know you and will work with you to identify some tools to help you feel your best,” Dr. Dave said. “Our psychologists can also help you manage more complex conditions with evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. We can also get you connected with a provider who can help you with medications, if necessary.”

Need support? Connect with a Wellstar behavioral health specialist.

Keep reading
Illustration of a woman practicing yoga under a rainbow.

Highlights

Maintain Your Mental Health During the Holidays

If you find the holiday season overwhelming, you’re not alone.

Wellstar experts say many people may have strong emotions at this time of year, especially since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak.

"For many people, COVID-19 was a catalyst for alienation and isolation – further magnified at times by the loss of friends and family members," said Dr. Ryan Breshears, chief behavioral health officer with Wellstar Health System. "The research is unequivocal – loneliness is a driver of morbidity and mortality. Whereas feelings of grief are normal and understandable following loss, during the holiday season, it is imperative that we connect back to meaning, purpose and relationships. Prioritizing that human connection with others can, in essence, be a life-saving measure."

Tips to take care of your mental health

Difficult emotions may be unwelcome visitors this time of year, but you can take steps to help yourself feel better.

  • Connect to purpose. Make time for meaningful activities and loved ones who bring joy to your life.
  • Prioritize social interactions. Research indicates that just being around other people can generate a sense of belongingness that is therapeutically helpful. Activities that provide opportunities for human interaction (such as going to a local coffee shop, attending a sporting event, etc.) have the potential to mitigate the focus on what we’ve lost.
  • Spend time with pets. When human companionship is limited, finding ways to connect with animals can also be healing.
  • Use a gratitude journal.  The effects of gratitude are powerful. Shifting focus from what we have lost to the meaningful things and relationships we possess can help us manage the emotional residue of grief.
  • Reach out for support. If you’re feeling isolated, connect with family and friends by setting up plans, speaking on the phone or sending a text message.
  • Validate your emotions. Honor your feelings. There is no way we “should” or “should not” feel. Feelings are simply a byproduct of our experience. The way we feel always makes sense, even if we don’t understand why.
  • Release expectations. Sometimes traditions change over time. Try not to worry if things don’t go as planned or exactly how they were in the past.
  • Embrace self-care. Recharge and renew your spirit by making time for yourself this season.
  • Plan ahead. Whether it’s gift-giving or holiday baking, planning in advance can alleviate last-minute stress.
  • It’s okay to say no. If you are feeling overwhelmed, remember that you don’t have to be involved in every activity of the season.
  • Manage social media. Social media can help to drive a sense of connection with others, but it can also have drawbacks. Know yourself and your triggers. If it’s hard to manage your feelings when people portray a picture-perfect version of the holidays, take a step back and limit screen time.
  • Limit media coverage. If news is upsetting, take breaks and limit your exposure.
  • Seek professional help, if needed. If you are having a difficult time coping, find support from a behavioral health specialist.

Looking for more ways to stay well? Learn how to give yourself the gift of health and partner with a Wellstar primary care provider.

Keep reading
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