One major advantage of choosing a top mental health hospital like Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital is its team of skilled and specialized staff.
Erlanger is known for its holistic and personalized mental health services, focusing on compassionate, patient-centred care, which enhances its reputation as a leading facility.
In addition, BetterHelp offers an accessible alternative for those seeking mental health support.
This online platform allows you to connect with licensed therapists and counselors from home via video calls, chat, or phone sessions, making therapy convenient and eliminating the need to travel or wait in a clinic.
About Erlanger Mental Health Hospital

Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a psychiatric facility that provides mental health care for individuals aged 12 and older.
With 144 beds, it offers personalized treatment for both psychiatric issues and addiction.
Adults receive customized care plans that may include medication, individual and group therapy, and family support, encouraging them to take an active role in their recovery.
Older adults are cared for with respect and focus on challenges like grief and cognitive impairments.
Erlanger has various levels of care, including intensive inpatient treatment with round-the-clock supervision and an intensive outpatient program for those balancing therapy with work or school.
Patients work closely with a dedicated team of professionals to address their needs and build a healthier future within a supportive community.
Mental Health Disorders Erlanger Treats?
1. Adjustment Disorder Treatment
People with adjustment disorders may find it hard to focus, lose interest in things they once enjoyed, and feel depressed, which can affect their overall health.
This includes medical assistance, medication management, detox for those struggling with addiction, and individual and group therapy, as well as family therapy to involve loved ones in the healing process.
Patients receive compassionate support in a nurturing environment and work on a discharge plan to connect them with community resources and ongoing care to help them continue their recovery after treatment.
2. Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurocognitive disorder that often begins with small memory issues, like misplacing things or forgetting phone numbers, and can lead to significant memory loss over time.
Although there is no cure, treatment options can help slow the disease’s progression.
Erlanger offers personalized programs to improve the quality of life for adults with Alzheimer’s, focusing on reducing symptoms and supporting healing.
Their older adult psychiatry program includes evidence-based therapies tailored to each patient.
Patients receive daily medical care from a team of doctors and nurses, along with medication management as needed.
Erlanger also provides individual therapy sessions with licensed counsellors, group therapy for support, and family therapy to help loved ones understand the condition.
Overall, Erlanger is dedicated to addressing the unique needs of each patient in a caring and effective way.
3. Anxiety Treatment
People with anxiety often feel constant worry and panic, which can make daily life overwhelming.
At Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital, the team helps patients understand their anxiety, find triggers, and learn coping skills.
Patients receive daily medical care, medication if needed, and one-on-one therapy to address their specific issues.
Group therapy offers support from others, and family therapy helps loved ones understand the patient’s experience.
Erlanger’s caring approach helps patients manage anxiety and work towards a calmer, healthier future.
4. Bipolar Disorder
Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital offers personalized treatment for bipolar disorder tailored to each person’s needs.
They have programs for adults and seniors, and a special unit for those dealing with both bipolar disorder and addiction.
Patients receive compassionate care from experienced staff using effective methods.
Services include medical care, daily meetings with psychiatrists for medication management, detox for addiction, individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy.
The goal is to create a supportive environment that helps patients on their path to recovery.
5. Depression
Erlanger offers personalized treatment to help people manage their depression and improve their lives.
They provide different programs, including medical support, daily meetings with psychiatrists for medication management, and detox services for addiction issues.
Patients also have access to individual and group therapy, as well as family therapy to include loved ones in the healing process
6. Psychotic Disorder
Psychotic disorders like schizophrenia cause severe symptoms such as hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions, making it hard to function without help.
Untreated, these illnesses can deeply affect mental and emotional health. At Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital, they offer compassionate, personalized care to help individuals and families cope.
Their treatment includes medication, therapy, and support for any co-occurring conditions like addiction.
With a focus on recovery, Erlanger provides a safe space for healing, using therapies that involve both the patient and their loved ones in the process.
7. PTSD
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health issue that can arise after experiencing a traumatic event, such as an attack, combat, sexual assault, or a natural disaster.
While it’s normal to feel shock or sadness after such events, PTSD leads to ongoing distress that can get worse over time.
Symptoms include flashbacks, anxiety, mood swings, depression, sleep problems, and withdrawal from others.
At Erlanger, patients receive personalized care to help them heal.
The centre offers specialized programs that include medical care, medication management, detox for those with addiction, and individual and group therapy, including sessions with family members. Each patient has a supportive team dedicated to their recovery.
8. Schizophrenia Treatment
Schizophrenia is a serious mental health disorder that makes it hard for people to tell what is real.
They may have delusions, hallucinations, and trouble communicating, which can lead to challenges in work, school, and relationships.
Without treatment, living independently can be very difficult, and there’s also a risk of self-harm or neglecting physical health.
Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital offers personalized treatment for adults and seniors with schizophrenia.
Their care includes medical support, medication management, detox services for those with addiction, and various therapy options.
Family involvement is also encouraged to aid recovery. Erlanger is dedicated to helping patients improve their lives through compassionate and effective care.
9. Self-Harm Treatment
Self-harm, such as cutting or burning, involves a person intentionally hurting themselves, often as a way to cope or feel some control. It is not always linked to suicidal intentions, but it can still cause severe harm.
At Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital, patients are given individualized care that includes therapy and medication when necessary.
Detox services are also available for those dealing with both self-harm and addiction.
Through individual and group therapy, patients are supported in understanding and managing their behaviours, with family therapy offered to help loved ones heal together.
The hospital aims to guide patients towards recovery and an improved quality of life.
10. Suicidal Ideation Treatment
People with suicidal thoughts often feel overwhelmed by pain from untreated mental health issues.
These thoughts can be scary, but they usually come from a wish to stop suffering rather than wanting to die.
Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital understands this pain and provides caring, personalized treatment. Their services include therapy, medication management, and support from a medical team, all in a safe environment.
They also offer group and family therapy to help patients heal and find hope again.
Erlanger tailors its programs to fit each patient’s needs, focusing on recovery and improving their quality of life.
11. Drug Addiction Treatment
Addiction can ruin lives, starting with casual use that can quickly turn into a dependency on drugs or alcohol.
At Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital, they tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs.
Their approach includes detox, medical care, medication management, and therapy in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Patients receive personalized care through individual and group therapy, while family therapy helps loved ones heal together.
Erlanger is dedicated to helping people recover from addiction and mental health issues, offering a clear path to lasting recovery.
Mental Health Programs At Erlanger
1. Adolescent Psychiatry Treatment Program
Erlanger helps children and teens with issues like ADHD, mood swings, anxiety, depression, and self-harm thoughts.
Treatment includes personal therapy, family therapy for better communication, and group therapy for building friendships and social skills.
Patients have regular check-ins with doctors to manage medications, and families work with the team to create a support plan for when the young person returns home.
2. Adult Psychiatry Treatment Program
They also provide individualized assessments and treatment for adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and schizophrenia.
Each patient follows a personalized plan that may include medication management, individual therapy sessions, and group therapy to develop skills like stress management.
Family therapy is also available to support loved ones, and a discharge plan helps guide recovery after inpatient treatment.
3. Senior & Older Adult Inpatient Treatment Program
Erlanger caters to the specific needs of seniors, combining psychiatric and medical services for those with cognitive issues like dementia or mood disorders.
Treatment includes individual and group therapy on topics such as grief and stress management.
Medication management stabilizes health, and discharge planning starts upon admission to ensure ongoing support after leaving.
4. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
The PHP offers structured weekday treatment while allowing patients to go home at night and on weekends.
It’s suitable for those needing extra support after inpatient treatment or individuals requiring intensive care without 24-hour supervision.
Treatment includes personalized plans with medication management, individual and group therapy, and family therapy.
5. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is for adults 18 and older facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction, as well as seniors over 65.
It helps those who need more support than regular outpatient therapy or who have completed inpatient care.
Participants attend the program three to five days a week for about three hours.
Treatment includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), plus group therapy on topics like anger and stress. Some participants may also receive medication management.
6. Adolescent Psychiatry Treatment Program
At Erlanger, the team is committed to addressing the individual needs of children and teens receiving treatment by focusing on their specific strengths and challenges.
They assist with issues such as ADHD, mood swings, anger, anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-harm thoughts.
The duration of treatment varies based on each young person’s needs, but everyone benefits from personal therapy sessions for individualized support, family therapy to enhance communication, and group therapy to foster friendships and social skills.
Patients also have regular check-ins with doctors to manage their medications. As they prepare to return home, the team collaborates with families to develop a plan that supports their continued success.
7. Adult Psychiatry Treatment Program
At Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital, each patient is assessed individually, but they typically accept those with anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder.
Each adult follows a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and goals.
This may include medication management to help with symptoms, individual therapy sessions with counsellors to discuss personal issues, and group therapy for learning skills like stress management and communication.
Family therapy is also available to help loved ones support the patient. After completing the inpatient program, patients receive a discharge plan to guide their recovery.
8. Senior & Older Adult Inpatient Treatment Program
Erlanger staff understands the unique needs of senior adults and is committed to providing high-quality care tailored to them.
Many older patients also have physical health issues, so Erlanger combines psychiatric and medical services to support their healing and independence.
The program helps seniors facing behavioural challenges related to dementia, mood disorders, and other cognitive problems.
Patients can be admitted voluntarily or involuntarily from various sources like families, doctors, and emergency departments.
Common issues treated include Alzheimer’s, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, mood swings, and psychosis.
The program offers individual therapy, family therapy to improve communication, and group therapy on topics like grief and stress management.
Medication management is available to stabilize health, and discharge planning begins upon admission to ensure ongoing support after leaving Erlanger.
9. Partial Hospitalization Program
A key part of Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital’s care is the partial hospitalization program (PHP), which offers structured and intensive treatment during the weekdays while allowing patients to go home in the evenings and on weekends.
Admissions are based on personal assessments, making PHP suitable for those who have completed inpatient treatment and need extra support, as well as individuals needing intensive care without 24-hour supervision.
Each patient follows a personalized treatment plan that may include medication management to help with symptoms, individual therapy for personal feedback, group therapy to share experiences and learn communication skills, and family therapy to help loved ones support the patient during and after treatment.
10. Intensive Outpatient Program
If you’re struggling with a mental health issue, getting the right care can help.
Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital offers an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for adults aged 18 and older dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction, as well as seniors over 65 who are mentally sharp.
This program is ideal for those who have finished inpatient treatment but still need support or for those who need more help than regular outpatient therapy. Participants usually come three to five days a week for about three hours, with options for daytime or evening sessions.
Your time in the program depends on your progress, and we create a personalized care plan for you. The IOP includes therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) to help change negative thoughts.
Group therapy is also a big part of the program, covering topics like anger management, grief, and stress management, and some participants may also meet with a psychiatrist for medication management.
Want to know more about mental health hospitals, check these out:
- Ark Behavioral Health: Committed to Quality Care & Recovery
- Volunteer Behavioral Health: Empowering Mental Wellness
- Mclean Hospital Mental Health: Leading Excellence in Care
Executive and Medical Team Members of Erlanger

Erlanger Behavioral Health is home to a dedicated team of professionals focused on providing excellent mental health care.
1. Executive Team
The executive team helps manage the hospital and ensures everything runs smoothly.
- Matthew Whitley is the Chief Operating Officer, overseeing daily operations.
- Lori Grider is the Chief Nursing Officer, in charge of the nursing staff and patient care.
- Roberto Garcia is the Director of Business Development, working on expanding the hospital’s services and community outreach.
2. Medical Team
The medical team consists of experienced professionals specializing in different areas of mental health.
- Michael Sigsworth is the Medical Director of the Adolescent Unit, leading the care for young patients.
- MaryEllen Eller, MD, is the Medical Director of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), managing this specific treatment.
- Lalita Ramnaraine, MD, oversees the Adolescent Services, focusing on the mental health of teenagers.
- Erin Lawson, Erica Winter, Josh Thompson, and Melissa Stuntz provide assessments, prescribe medications, and offer therapeutic support to help patients.
Together, the staff at Erlanger Behavioral Health works as a team to provide personalized and effective mental health treatment in a caring and supportive environment.
Address and Contact Information
Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital is situated at 804 N Holtzclaw Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404. You can reach them at (833) 983-3532.
Their inpatient services are located at Erlanger North, 632 Morrison Springs Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37415. For more information, please visit their official website.
FAQ’s:
Is a mental breakdown the same as a nervous breakdown?
While the terms “mental breakdown” and “nervous breakdown” are often used interchangeably, they are not formally recognized medical terms.
A mental breakdown typically refers to a period of intense mental distress that affects daily functioning, while a nervous breakdown generally refers to an inability to cope with stress, often accompanied by physical and emotional symptoms.
How to comfort someone during a mental breakdown?
To comfort someone experiencing a mental breakdown, it’s important to be present and listen without judgment.
Encourage them to express their feelings and reassure them that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.
Offer practical support, such as helping them find professional help, and create a calming environment.
It’s also helpful to suggest coping strategies, like deep breathing or taking a break, to help them regain a sense of control.
