Working with a community partner to provide accessible mental health and psychiatric care
In partnership with Providence Orange County hospitals, St. Jude Neighborhood Health Centers offers thousands of underserved Orange County residents compassionate mental health and psychiatric care they would have difficulty finding elsewhere.
The behavioral health care team comprises multiple therapists and counselors – and a psychiatrist who provides culturally appropriate care in Spanish and English. Of the nearly 3,600 patients who received mental health or psychiatric care through this program in 2023, the vast majority were Spanish speaking.
To psychiatrist Nicholas Figueroa, M.D., each visit is an opportunity to connect with the patient and provide the best care possible.
“They appreciate how I ask about their immigrant journey and how that pertains to their current mental health challenges – in their own language,” Dr. Figueroa said.
By mission and design, the health centers serve low-income, uninsured and underinsured individuals, with costs much lower than hospital-based or specialty care.
Telehealth care also is provided by St. Jude Neighborhood Health Centers. In 2023, the number of virtual visits were nearly double that of in-person visits at the Anaheim, Fullerton and Orange clinics.
“I see patients who have children with autism, who find it easier to receive care without leaving home – or construction workers who log into a telehealth visit during their lunch breaks while in their cars,” said clinical social worker Xenia Marshall, LMFT.
Patients can also receive medical, prenatal, dental and vision care at St. Jude Neighborhood Health Centers – resulting in higher-quality, uninterrupted and whole person care.
