Transforming Lives: The Health Care District of Palm Beach County’s Outpatient Psychiatry and Substance Use Treatment Programs

For individuals grappling with psychiatric and substance use disorders, timely and specialized care is critical. The Health Care District is leading the way in addressing addiction and mental health disorders with an approach that recognizes the lifelong nature of these illnesses, providing high-quality care at every stage of the journey.

"The opioid and mental health crises have deeply impacted Palm Beach County, and we recognized the urgent need for integrated care," stated Dr. Belma Andric, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer for the Health Care District. "Our outpatient community health centers are designed to cater to patients suffering from psychiatric and substance use disorder illnesses. Treatment is provided by a dedicated team of board-certified psychiatrists, primary care providers, licensed mental health professionals and peers, focusing on individuals’ overall well-being.”

The Health Care District’s outpatient programs offer comprehensive office-based treatment for psychiatric and substance use disorders integrated with primary medical care, women’s health care, dental services and pharmacy services, all under one roof. The approach encompasses a range of services tailored to each patient's specific needs, which may include Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), as well as limited individual and group therapy sessions, psychiatric assessment and treatment, care coordination including referrals to specialists and various social services such as transportation and housing assistance, and after-hours on-call services for round-the-clock support from a recovery coach.

"We believe mental health and substance use disorders, like any other illness, should be treated with compassion by medical doctors and licensed therapists who follow the highest standards of care for as long as the patients need care," added Dr. Courtney Phillips, Vice President and Chief of Behavioral Health and Clinical Innovations at the Health Care District. "We understand the relapsing nature of these illnesses and our team aims to help our patients understand the medical nature of their condition and equip them with essential coping skills to prevent relapse."

These outpatient services are conveniently available at the Health Care District’s Mangonia Park Community Health Center, located at 2051 45th St., Suite 100 in West Palm Beach, and at the new state-of-the-art community health center serving the southern part of the county at 200 Congress Park Dr. Suite 100 in Delray Beach. Patients can schedule an appointment directly with a psychiatrist at either location without a referral from their primary care doctor, making it easier to get the care they need.

Mangonia Park Patient Matthew Lawrence, who has been sober for two years and now helps others who are struggling with addiction, adds, “This place has saved my life. It saved my life. I know that for a fact because coming in here they’ve given me all of the support, they’ve given me medication, and now I come here knowing that I can save other people’s lives, which is very gratifying in itself.”

"We meet you where you are. Whether you struggle with mental health or are uncertain if your substance usage is problematic, make an appointment to discuss treatment options tailored for you. Walk-ins are welcome," added Dr. Phillips.

Continued Commitment to Lifelong Recovery
The Health Care District continues to work with community partners on innovative approaches to treat substance use and mental health with the vision extending beyond immediate intervention. Third and fourth-year FAU psychiatry residents and their attending physicians provide psychiatric services to our adult patients. Adults can schedule their in-person psychiatric appointments directly without needing a referral from a primary care doctor. 

"We understand that substance use and mental health disorders are lifelong diseases that require ongoing treatment,” said Darcy J. Davis, Health Care District Chief Executive Officer. “Our commitment is to be a lifeline and medical home for our patients, ensuring access to specialized, high-quality care for all, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay."

Community Health Centers
The Health Care District operates 10 community health centers throughout Palm Beach County, including the Mangonia Park and Delray Beach locations. These centers play a vital role in delivering primary medical care, dental care, behavioral health, women's health, substance use treatment, pharmacy services, and other essential medical services to the community. As Federally Qualified Health Centers, all patients are treated regardless of their ability to pay or insurance status. Patients can make an appointment by calling 561-642-1000.