The Vital Role of Mental Health Therapists in Our Community

At InterCommunity, we emphasize the importance of mental health alongside physical health. “Mental health therapists play a crucial role in this mission by providing a secure and supportive environment for individuals to heal and develop," stated Dr. Zachary Steinbach, Medical Director at InterCommunity Health Care.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) illustrates the significance of this work. It is common to experience distressing symptoms after a traumatic experience. For some, these symptoms may be mild, while for others they can be severe and significantly impact daily life. People with trauma symptoms are more vulnerable to other health risks; nearly 1 in 3 report suicidal thoughts (National Center for PTSD, 2022), and PTSD dramatically increases the likelihood of developing substance use disorders (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2023).

Mental health therapists deliver more than treatment; they provide hope. Using evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness techniques, therapists assist patients in processing their experiences, developing coping skills, and regaining their sense of well-being. A patient expressed this sentiment by stating, "I’ve been involved with InterCommunity for 2 1/2 years now for medications, therapy, and primary care. So, my health is better than ever at 66 years of age due to the well-rounded, multi-faceted, whole-person care. The staff is well informed, caring, and I am in good hands.” Russell T.

For many individuals in underserved communities, a Federally Qualified Health Center like InterCommunity may be the only access point for these important services. By incorporating mental health care into our primary care model, we strive to ensure that no one faces trauma alone and that healing is accessible to everyone, regardless of income or insurance coverage.

If you or someone you know is dealing with the repercussions of trauma, our mental health team is available to assist. Together, we can reduce stigma, promote dialogue, and prioritize mental wellness for all.

To schedule an appointment, please call us at 860-569-5900 or visit www.intercommunityct.org to complete an outpatient referral form.