As awareness around mental health continues to grow, more individuals are seeking the necessary treatment and support to address a range of behavioural and emotional disorders.
With increasing acceptance of mental health care, Ventura has responded by expanding its network of mental health facilities.
These hospitals and centres offer services designed to meet all kinds of different needs of the community, from therapeutic interventions to psychiatric care.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the leading mental health hospital in Ventura and shine a light on the top professionals who provide exceptional care.
Ventura Mental Health Statistics
Mental health challenges affect individuals across all communities, and Ventura is no exception.
With a significant portion of the population facing frequent emotional and psychological distress, the need for effective mental health services is evident.
According to Ventura County mental health statistics, 14.5% of adults experience frequent mental distress, while 14.1% report ongoing struggles with poor mental health.
In 1 year, about 16,000 individuals receive mental health services in Ventura County, with about 4,600 of them reaching out for depression, 2,300 for psychosis, and 2,000 for trauma/stress.
Sleep deprivation is also a concern, with 30.6% of residents sleeping less than seven hours per night.
Additionally, issues like addiction are prevalent, particularly alcohol abuse, with 17.7% of the population identified as binge drinkers.
These statistics highlight the pressing need for expanded mental health resources and services in Ventura to better support those struggling with mental health issues.
Best Mental Health Hospital in Ventura
Ventura has numerous exceptional mental health hospitals, providing a range of services to meet the diverse needs of its residents.
Let’s explore some of the top mental health hospitals and facilities in the city and the valuable programs they offer.
1. Vista del Mar Hospital
Vista del Mar Hospital provides mental health care through both inpatient and outpatient programs for adolescents and adults.
The hospital focuses on crisis stabilization and intensive treatment for a range of mental health and substance use disorders.
Their inpatient services offer 24-hour monitoring and psychiatric care, specializing in conditions such as mood disorders, schizophrenia, and co-occurring substance and psychotic disorders.
In addition to inpatient care, Vista del Mar offers evidence-based outpatient services designed to provide an alternative to hospitalization.
These include the Adult Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) tailored for adolescents, adults, and military personnel.
Vista del Mar Hospital reviews by patients are also excellent, reflecting its quality care and commitment to patient well-being.
2. Hillmont Psychiatric Center
Hillmont Psychiatric Center, located in Hillmont Ventura, is an acute psychiatric hospital that offers crisis-level care for individuals facing severe mental health challenges.
This centre was established in 1995 and has a capacity of 43 beds.
The facility provides intensive psychiatric treatment to individuals who are considered a danger to themselves, others or are gravely disabled due to psychological or mental impairment.
Patients may arrive at the centre for evaluation voluntarily, or they may be brought in by law enforcement or the Ventura County Crisis Team.
As the highest level of psychiatric care available in the region, Hillmont focuses on stabilizing individuals in crisis.
Once the immediate crisis is managed, the staff works to determine the next steps, coordinating discharge plans and continued treatment to ensure patients receive ongoing support.
Individuals can reach out to Hillmont Ventura’s phone number for support and inquiries regarding mental health services.
3. Ventura County Behavioral Health (VCBH)
Ventura County Behavioral Health (VCBH) offers a range of services to individuals dealing with mental health and substance use issues.
As an essential part of the Ventura County Health Care Agency, VCBH provides support to the general population, those already in treatment, and those seeking help for the first time.
Their programs cater to adults, transitional youth (16-25), and families, ensuring a continuum of care for substance use disorders and mental health concerns.
Services include inpatient hospitalization, outpatient treatment, mobile crisis response, adult residential care, and short-term residential options like the Crisis Residential Program.
They also run specialized programs such as the DUI Program and substance use services.
Available 24/7, VCBH offers crucial support for individuals in crisis, those considering suicide, and individuals struggling with mental health or substance use challenges.
4. Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC)
Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) is a fully integrated healthcare facility providing both medical and behavioural health services.
The centre offers inpatient psychiatric care alongside medical services such as 24-hour crisis intervention, mental health interventions, and case management.
VCMC specializes in treating underserved populations who often face barriers to care, operating as a trauma centre affiliated with the UCLA School of Medicine.
The inpatient psychiatric hospital at VCMC offers an evidence-based rehabilitation program, beginning with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and an individualized treatment plan.
Care includes group and individual therapy, family counselling, skill development, recovery-based meetings, and peer support.
Licensed by the state of California, VCMC accepts Medicare, Medicaid, military insurance, private pay, and commercial insurance, with financial aid available for those in need.
5. Community Memorial Healthcare
Community Memorial Healthcare offers a range of outpatient services aimed at evaluating, diagnosing, and managing various mental health conditions.
These services address issues such as anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, mood and thought disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, and PTSD.
The facility also supports individuals with dual diagnoses, those facing both behavioural health conditions and substance use disorders.
While Community Memorial does not provide inpatient hospitalization for mental health or behavioural health diagnoses, they play an important role in crisis intervention.
Their psychiatrists are on call 24/7 to assist patients experiencing mental health emergencies, such as suicide attempts or severe crises.
In these cases, patients can be treated and stabilized at the facility before being referred for long-term care.
The hospital’s social services team works closely with patients to arrange continued mental health support and transportation to specialized facilities.
6. Point Break Recovery
Point Break Recovery offers detox and residential inpatient treatment for individuals struggling with substance misuse and addiction.
Their team ensures that treatment addresses not only the addiction but the whole person—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Their detox program is medically monitored and tailored to the individual’s needs, with 24/7 medical staff providing constant care to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably.
Clients receive care and support through various therapies and group activities, helping them explore the root causes of addiction and learn strategies to manage triggers.
The program is designed to offer a robust clinical experience, with intimate therapy groups and individualized care to support long-term recovery.
7. Balance Treatment Center, Ventura
Balance Treatment Center in Ventura offers an intensive outpatient program aimed at providing clients with the tools for long-term stability and well-being.
The program serves individuals struggling with mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and dual diagnoses.
The supportive group environment allows clients to express their challenges openly while receiving education, symptom management, and therapeutic support.
The program’s focus is on four key developmental milestones—emotional, social, educational, and physical—ensuring a balanced approach to recovery.
Discharge planning begins at admission, with a detailed plan created to maintain treatment gains post-program.
8. Ventura Counseling & Wellness Center (VCWC)
Ventura Counseling & Wellness Center (VCWC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable therapy and family counselling in a welcoming environment.
The centre’s qualified therapists work with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, including traditional and non-traditional relationships, offering a broad range of services.
VCWC specializes in easing life’s challenges by providing services such as marital and couples therapy, child custody mediation, community classes, and parenting education.
VCWC offers counselling for various relationship dynamics, including marriage, premarital, LGBTQ+, divorce, separation, cohabitation, and blended family therapy.
In addition to traditional therapeutic methods, the centre also offers alternative healing practices, such as art therapy and Reiki, to ensure clients find the approach that best suits their needs.
VCWC is committed to helping clients navigate their emotional and relational challenges in a way that is both effective and comfortable.
Adolescent Mental Health Hospitals in Ventura
Some of the best hospitals and clinics for adolescents in Ventura are:
1. Vista del Mar Hospital – Adolescent Services
Vista del Mar Hospital provides a wide range of mental health services for adolescents aged 12-17 in Ventura, offering both inpatient and outpatient care for them.
The hospital’s primary goal is to stabilize present symptoms in a supportive and comforting environment, ensuring the well-being of troubled teens.
An initial assessment is conducted by specialists to determine the most suitable course of action for each individual.
Vista del Mar believes in a collaborative approach to mental health, involving not only the teen but also their family, friends, and other influential professionals.
Treatment plans typically include teen counselling, group therapy, medication management, comprehensive assessments, and school participation.
Family involvement is also a key part of the process, with multi-family group sessions providing a space for shared experiences and support.
The hospital also offers a Teen After-School Program and multi-family group sessions, where families can connect, discuss challenges, and share coping strategies.
2. Ventura County Behavioral Health
Ventura County Behavioral Health offers services for adolescents and their families across the county, addressing a wide range of mental health needs.
Their services include psychiatric assessments, outpatient therapy, case management, intensive care coordination, psychological testing, and support during acute crises or hospitalizations.
As a trauma-informed agency, they ensure that their approach is developmentally appropriate, providing care in various settings such as clinics, schools, homes, and the broader community.
A key focus is on maintaining continuity of care in the least restrictive environments, preventing out-of-home placements whenever possible.
Ventura County Behavioral Health collaborates with other county agencies and community-based organizations to meet the holistic needs of both children and their families.
Additionally, the Family Urgent Response System (FURS) provides a 24/7/365 free hotline, offering immediate help for current or former foster youth for both urgent and non-urgent issues.
3. ROWI® Teen
ROWI® offers specialized mental health programs for teens and adolescents in Ventura County, led by a team of certified clinicians and therapeutic staff.
Their programs focus on clinical best practices with a positive and empowering approach to patient care.
ROWI® provides outpatient services through their partial hospitalization program and intensive outpatient program, offering a safe and modern environment that supports stability and growth.
The PHP program is a full-day service that integrates educational support, ensuring teens stay on track with their schoolwork while receiving mental health treatment.
This includes individual and family therapy, psychiatric sessions, and evidence-based therapeutic groups such as CBT and DBT.
For teens requiring less intensive treatment, ROWI®’s IOP offers after-school therapy sessions, including individual and family therapy, as well as therapeutic and recreational activities.
Both programs are tailored to the specific needs of each teen, creating a personalized path to mental health and well-being.
4. Parent Child Therapy Clinic Inc.
Parent Child Therapy Clinic Inc. provides specialized services for adolescents aged 11-17, with a mission to strengthen families through respect, compassion, and hope.
One of their primary therapeutic approaches is cognitive behavioural therapy, which helps children and adolescents recognize harmful thought patterns.
By understanding how their thoughts influence their feelings and behaviours, young clients can learn better self-control and emotional regulation.
Additionally, the clinic offers trauma-focused cognitive behaviour therapy, an evidence-based treatment designed for adolescents who have experienced trauma.
This therapy also involves the parents or caregivers to ensure a holistic approach to healing and support.
Through these treatments, the clinic helps adolescents and their families navigate emotional and mental health challenges.
5. Balance Treatment Center – Adolescent IOP
Balance Treatment Center in Ventura offers a specialized program for children and adolescents, using well-researched methods to address their core mental health and well-being needs.
The center’s approach focuses on empowering teens by helping them discover their strengths, and improve their physical and mental health by instilling a sense of purpose in them.
The staff at Balance Treatment Center follows a family systems approach, recognizing that family dynamics play a significant role in an adolescent’s mental health.
Through their intensive outpatient program, they identify and address underlying tensions, fears, and conflicts within the family, and promote healthier relationships.
Support and education are provided not only to the adolescent but also to their parents and family members, ensuring they are involved throughout the treatment and discharge process.
Inpatient and Outpatient Facilities in Ventura
In Ventura, mental health facilities offer care through both inpatient and outpatient programs, led by a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, therapists, and other mental health professionals.
Inpatient facilities focus on providing intensive support, starting with a thorough evaluation to develop personalized treatment plans.
These plans typically include medication management, regular monitoring, and a variety of therapeutic interventions such as group therapy and educational sessions.
Patients also benefit from recreational activities and are introduced to new coping mechanisms, fostering both recovery and social engagement.
Many hospitals in Ventura go beyond standard treatment options by offering additional services like yoga, meditation, relaxation exercises, and community-based activities.
Family involvement, nutritional counselling, and medically assisted detoxification are also key components, ensuring a well-rounded approach to care.
For those who do not require full-time care, Ventura offers outpatient services that allow individuals to manage their mental health while living at home.
Psychotherapy plays a central role in these programs, providing individuals with a safe space to discuss their challenges.
For more severe cases, intensive outpatient programs offer elevated support without the need for hospitalization.
Specialized counselling, such as LGBTQ and faith-based programs, is also available to meet diverse needs.
Telehealth therapy services further extend access to care, especially for individuals in remote areas.
Additionally, many outpatient programs incorporate outdoor activities tailored to each individual’s abilities, promoting both physical and mental well-being as part of the recovery process.
There are also many free mental health services in Ventura County, including suicide prevention hotlines and crisis intervention services.
Want to know more about mental health hospitals, check these out:
- Top 7 Mental Health Hospitals in Birmingham
- 7 Best Mental Health Hospitals in Canada
- 7 Best Mental Health Hospitals in New Jersey
Top Mental Health Doctors & Professionals in Ventura
Ventura has many highly skilled and dedicated mental health professionals, renowned for their expertise in providing exceptional care to patients.
Some of them are mentioned below.
1. Jane Li
Dr. Jane Li is a board-certified psychiatrist, trained at UCLA, specializing in adult mental health care.
She treats a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar and mood disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, and eating disorders.
Dr. Li completed a Mood Disorders Fellowship at UCLA, focusing on bipolar patients. She has also undergone training in experiential psychodynamic therapy and other therapeutic modalities.
In addition to medication management, Dr. Li offers therapy to provide a more holistic treatment approach.
Her therapeutic methods involve closely examining emotional responses and habits, many of which stem from past experiences.
By helping patients gain awareness of these automatic behaviours, she aids in reducing suffering, allowing them to improve their mental well-being.
2. Michaela Martin
Michaela Martin is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a strong background in emergency medicine.
Her clinical expertise spans crisis intervention and medication management for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and more.
Michaela is committed to providing compassionate, individualized care, focusing on mental health as a key aspect of overall well-being.
She strives to create personalized treatment plans that improve the quality of life for her patients.
3. Mark Chofla
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 26 years of experience in counselling and mental health care.
He completed his speciality training at University of Southern California Medical Center and earned his medical degree from Midwestern University’s Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Chofla believes in the innate capacity for growth and healing at any stage of life.
As a family and community psychiatrist, he combines empathetic psychotherapy with careful medication management to help his patients achieve mental well-being.
4. Michael Ferguson
Dr. Michael M. Ferguson is a seasoned psychiatrist with over four decades of experience.
He earned his undergraduate degree from Rice University and completed his medical degree and residency in psychiatry at UCLA.
Board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Dr. Ferguson specializes in treating dual diagnosis, where psychiatric conditions are coupled with substance use disorders.
His expertise includes ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, panic disorders, and autism spectrum disorders.
Dr. Ferguson is particularly skilled in Buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorders.
He works with individuals of all ages, from teenagers to older adults, and is dedicated to providing thoughtful medication management and care.
5. Jennifer Naumann
Jennifer Naumann is a dedicated psychologist who strives to help her clients unlock their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
Jennifer’s approach focuses on providing extra support and guidance to those navigating difficult life circumstances or those ready for a new direction in life.
By utilizing a combination of therapeutic techniques, she works with clients to identify and address long-standing behavioural patterns that may be hindering their personal growth.
Jennifer offers a highly personalized, client-centred approach in a comfortable and supportive environment, helping individuals achieve the meaningful life changes they seek.
6. Ashlee Cardona-Hernandez
Ashlee Cardona-Hernandez is a skilled Marriage and Family Therapist who supports individuals, couples, and families dealing with life adjustments and various mental health issues.
She has extensive experience working with reunification cases, relationship challenges, and supporting severely mentally ill adults.
Ashlee’s person-centered approach incorporates therapeutic modalities like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused care.
With a deep sensitivity to cultural nuances, Ashlee tailors her therapeutic methods to suit each individual’s needs, guiding them toward solutions that support their personal growth.
7. Gol Ara
Dr Gol Ara is a psychiatrist with expertise in consultation-liaison psychiatry, a subspecialty focused on addressing mental health issues in patients with complex medical conditions.
After completing her fellowship at UCLA, Dr. Ara now specializes in treating patients with treatment-resistant depression and other challenging mental health conditions.
Her comprehensive approach includes inpatient and outpatient care, offering medication management and psychotherapy tailored to diverse patient needs.
Fluent in both Persian and English, Dr. Ara integrates each individual’s medical, emotional, and psychological circumstances into her treatment plans.
