Our Focus: Diagnose, Stabilize, Treat

The John Muir Behavioral Health Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for our patients - with the utmost professionalism, competency, dedication and compassion.

Child Psychiatric Program

This program specializes in treating children ages 4 to 12 with emotional, psychiatric or behavioral problems such as depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, psychosis, ADHD (severe attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and the like. We specialize in personalized care, and correct diagnosis based on behavioral observation as well as prior history. Any necessary medication is then prescribed and managed. The average length of stay is typically seven-ten days and family participation in treatment is actively encouraged.

Adolescent Psychiatric Program

Our adolescent program for youths ages 13 to 18 is divided into two units separated by gender to discourage incidents and inappropriate behavior. The average short-term stay for adolescents is about seven days, during which time patients will receive a medication evaluation. This program concentrates on crisis stabilization, provides psychiatric and dual diagnosis services, and sets up a discharge plan with an outpatient provider for ongoing treatment. Family education and support groups are offered and encouraged.

Adult Psychiatric Program

The adult program focuses on crisis management and prevention for those who have bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia, suicidal tendencies, or other emotional, psychiatric or behavioral problems. Patients may be admitted on a voluntary or involuntary basis, but our philosophy is to employ the least restrictive methods possible. That means we don't curtail our patients' rights and privileges any more than absolutely necessary. Patients are generally able to leave the locked unit with an order from their physician for brief periods , and are encouraged to enjoy their surroundings, as well as take advantage of the fully equipped gym. Inpatient hospitalizations - which usually last five to six days - are structured around individual and group therapy sessions, as well as therapeutic recreational activities (music, dance, art) and pastoral care.

We recognize that our patients need tools to manage their treatment throughout their lives - which is why we place a strong emphasis on recognizing "stressors ," and providing coping mechanisms to use in times of stress. Patients are also encouraged to check-in periodically with us, or return as needed to stabilize their crisis situation. At time of discharge we refer our patients to our hospital based outpatient programs or to individual community practitioners for continue treatment.

Call (925) 674-4100 for more information about our psychiatric programs.

Additional Information