Mental health is getting the attention it needs, with more communities recognizing its importance.
Cities are opening new clinics, treatment centers, and counseling programs to support people facing mental health challenges.
One such resource is Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health in Oakland Park, Florida.
This article will look at the services offered by Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health and how they can help improve mental health and well-being.
Additionally, When looking for a psychiatrist or mental health facility, it’s important to think about a few key factors.
Online services like BetterHelp can help you find licensed therapists who provide support and therapy from the comfort of your home.
About Fort Lauderdale Mental Health Hospital
Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center is a reputable facility that offers both inpatient and outpatient care for individuals of all ages struggling with drug addiction, mental health issues, and co-occurring disorders.
With over 30 years of experience, this fully licensed and accredited private hospital provides high-quality treatment in a secure and comfortable setting.
The center focuses on personalized drug rehab programs designed to support long-term sobriety and a healthy lifestyle.
The facility has 182 beds and is well-regarded for its specialized programs.
It is officially licensed by the Florida Agency for Healthcare Administration and accredited by The Joint Commission.
The center also partners with the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention to improve its approaches to preventing and treating suicide.
Programs & Treatments Provided By Fort Lauderdale
Inpatient Treatments
At Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center, individuals from children to elderly adults receive thorough treatment for substance use and mental health challenges.
The center features a secure 180-bed facility that provides medically monitored detox and intensive rehabilitation for drug and alcohol abuse, as well as care for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
The program features individual and group counseling sessions, utilizing a 12-step model and various therapeutic approaches.
It includes options like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for those with severe depression.
Additionally, the program addresses both substance abuse and mental health challenges, aiming to foster long-term recovery and well-being.
Older adults also benefit from the HOPE Program, which helps with age-related issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance use, and works with families and community groups for complete support.
Outpatient Programs
Outpatient Programs for those who need ongoing support without staying overnight, the center provides outpatient services for teens and adults facing mental health and substance abuse challenges.
They offer help for individuals aged 5 and up, with programs designed to assist in overcoming addiction and mental health issues.
Their intensive outpatient services are aimed at supporting long-term recovery and easing the transition back to daily life.
Both in-person and online options are available.
For severe depression, treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ECT are offered.
The center accepts most major insurances, Medicare, and Medicaid, and provides financial assistance for those who qualify.
Their programs include regular group and individual therapy, with less intensive options also available.
Teenagers can access online programs with the same quality of care as in-person sessions. Additional services include psychiatric evaluations, individual and family counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication support.
For more details, call the IOP department at 954-734-2057.
3. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
If traditional treatments aren’t helping with severe depression, Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center offers ECT, which might be effective.
They are a top provider in Broward County with a skilled team of psychiatrists, anesthesiologists, and nurses.
ECT sends brief electrical pulses to the brain, causing short, mild seizures. This helps improve the brain’s chemical signals and can increase serotonin, which affects mood.
Before beginning ECT, patients undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests and an EKG, to confirm their heart health.
On the treatment day, they are administered anesthesia and muscle relaxants to ensure their comfort. Electrodes are positioned on the scalp to administer electrical pulses.
Each treatment session lasts approximately 20 minutes, with most individuals requiring between 6 to 12 sessions over several weeks.
If symptoms reoccur, additional treatments might be necessary. For further details or to schedule an appointment, contact the ECT Nurse Manager at 954-734-2000.
Want to know more about mental health hospitals, check these out:
- Citrus Mental Health Hospital: Your Partner in Healing
- Peachford Mental Health Hospital: Care for Every Step
- Fairfax Hospital Mental Health Unit: Dedicated to Recovery
Team Members At Fort Lauderdale Mental Health Hospital
1. Manny Llano
Manny Llano, the CEO of Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center, has been leading behavioral health operations for over 15 years.
He has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami and a master’s degree in business and healthcare administration from Nova Southeastern.
With over 33 years of experience in hospital and financial management, Manny has also worked as a Regional COO and CFO for two large healthcare organizations.
2. Jackeline Aleman
Jackeline Aleman, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), earned her Bachelor’s degree in accounting from Florida International University in 2007.
She has over 20 years of experience in finance, with more than 12 years focused on healthcare accounting. She started working at UHS in December 2021.
3. Dr. Jared Gaines
Dr. Jared Gaines, the Chief Medical Officer, was born in South Florida and trained at the University of Florida.
He is board-certified in General Psychiatry and has fellowships in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and ECT.
He also got TMS certification in 2019. Before joining Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center, he worked as a Medical Director at several hospitals.
Outside of work, Dr. Gaines enjoys family activities, coaching flag football, and outdoor sports.
4. Miguel Fernandez, LCSW, CADC
Miguel Fernandez, the Chief Operating Officer, holds both his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees from Florida State University.
He is a licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, with over 34 years in behavioral health.
Miguel has worked in many roles, including Mental Health Technician, case manager, and various administrative positions.
He has also taught as an adjunct professor and held leadership roles like Deputy Commissioner and CEO.
Fluent in English and Spanish, Miguel has worked in diverse settings, including the Veteran’s Administration and behavioral health hospitals.
5. Darinka Pozo, MSN, PMHNP
Darinka Pozo, the Chief Nursing Officer, has over 5 years of experience in psychiatry.
She earned her Master’s in Nursing and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from West Coast University.
Darinka has a strong background in leadership and has worked as a Chief Nursing Officer in behavioral health hospitals.
She is skilled in crisis intervention, therapeutic communication, and mental health assessments.
Her knowledge of legal frameworks like the Baker Act and the Marchman Act highlights her dedication to effective psychiatric care.
Address and Contact Information
Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center is located at 5757 N Dixie Hwy, Oakland Park, FL 33334. You can reach them by calling 954-734-2000.
For more details and additional information, please visit their official website.
