United Indian Health Services Behavioral Health

United Indian Health Services (UIHS) Behavioral Health department in Arcata, California, provides comprehensive mental health and wellness services to American Indian communities in Humboldt and Del Norte counties. UIHS operates with the guiding purpose of working together with clients and community to achieve wellness through health services that reflect the traditional values of the American Indian community. The Behavioral Health department is an integral part of this mission, addressing the unique mental health needs of Native populations.Culturally Grounded Mental Health ServicesThe Behavioral Health department provides a wide range of mental health services rooted in cultural understanding and respect for traditional Native values. Services include individual therapy, family counseling, group therapy, psychiatric evaluation and medication management, and crisis intervention. Clinicians are trained in culturally responsive care and understand the historical trauma, intergenerational challenges, and cultural strengths that shape the mental health experiences of American Indian communities. This culturally grounded approach integrates Western clinical practices with traditional healing perspectives.Comprehensive Healthcare IntegrationThe Behavioral Health program operates within UIHS's comprehensive healthcare system, which includes medical services, dental care, pharmacy, vision services, physical therapy, telehealth, and tribal public health. This integrated model ensures that behavioral health is not treated in isolation but as part of a holistic approach to wellness. When clients present with co-occurring physical and behavioral health conditions, the UIHS care team can coordinate treatment across departments, improving outcomes and reducing the burden on patients navigating multiple healthcare systems.Community-Based ServicesUIHS Behavioral Health extends beyond the clinic walls through community-based programs that promote mental wellness, prevent substance use, and support recovery within the tribal communities of Humboldt and Del Norte counties. The Tribal Public Health Division creates and provides comprehensive, culturally-driven holistic health and wellness services for the community. These community-focused initiatives address social determinants of health, promote cultural identity and connection, and build resilience within Native communities.Accessible and Inclusive CareLocated in Arcata along the Northern California coast, UIHS serves a diverse tribal population including members of local tribes and urban American Indians. The organization maintains multiple clinic locations throughout the region to maximize accessibility for community members in both urban and rural settings. Telehealth services are available for patients who cannot easily travel to clinic locations, ensuring that geographic barriers do not prevent access to needed behavioral health care. UIHS is committed to providing care regardless of ability to pay, with services supported by federal Indian Health Service funding and various insurance programs.