Sacred Heart Behavioral Health

May 19, 2013

Sacred Heart Behavioral Health

The Sacred Heart Behavioral Health Outpatient Clinic, established in 2011, addresses the strong community need for mental health services for children, adolescents and adults in the Chippewa Valley region.

Our psychiatrists, psychologist and master's-educated therapists develop individualized treatment plans for all patients to encourage goals that support a balanced, healthy life. Respecting the dignity of everyone who comes through the doors of the Clinic, our care team provides timely, appropriate, quality services in a compassionate, confidential environment.

The Behavioral Health Outpatient Clinic’s professional staff has many years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families. Our goal is to improve the mental health and well-being of your child or teen and strengthen your family. We also offer individualized treatment plans for adults to encourage goals that support a balanced, healthy life.

Information for Moms

Coping with Postpartum Depression

Having a new baby can be one of the happiest and most important moments in a new mother’s life---but unfortunately for some women, the first few weeks of motherhood is not so happy (Full Story)

Exercise Impacts Your Child's MENTAL Health, Too!

We have heard a lot in the media lately about childhood obesity and the push to get our kids eating better and exercising more to help combat current and future health problems. But what many of us may not realize is that exercise (or lack thereof!) not only impacts physical health, but it can impact our children's mental health as well! (Full Story)

Sacred Heart Behavioral Health FAQ

Q: What types of services are provided for children and adolescents?

A: Ricardo Bayola, MD, specializes in treating children and adolescents ages three to 18. Services include a wide range of issues including medication management, depression and mood disorders, anxiety and phobia, eating disorders, social and peer conflict, sexual and other abuse, truancy, anger management, social and coping skills, and substance abuse.

Q: What types of services are provided for adults?

A: Emil Ibrahim, MD, specializes in treating adult patients. Services include such issues as addiction, depressive illnesses, panic disorder, sexual or other abuse, eating disorders, marital or relationship issues, parenting, medication management, grief and loss, or stress therapy.

Q: Do you offer marriage or family counseling?

A: Yes. Masters educated therapists and counselors from St. Joseph’s Hospital’s L.E. Phillips-Libertas Treatment Center in Chippewa Falls, who are specialized in psychotherapy and marriage and family counseling, are also available at the Clinic to see children, adolescents and adults. Their services cover a wide range of issues, including but not limited to life transitions, trauma and crisis intervention, and individual, family or couples therapy.

Q: Why does my child continually refuse to do what I ask?

A: Oppositional behavior is often a normal part of development for 2 and 3 year olds and early adolescents. This behavior becomes a significant concern when it is so frequent and consistent that it stands out when compared to same aged peers and when it affects the child’s social, family and academic life.

All children are oppositional from time to time, especially when tired, stressed, hungry or upset. Most "bad behaviors" are related to poor nutrition, lack of sleep and lack of structure. When oppositional, these children may argue, talk back, disobey, and defy adults.

Q: What can I do to stop this negative behavior?

A: Be sure to give your child structure. Create rituals and routines so your child knows what to expect. Set realistic expectations for your child and set limits, which will give him or her a sense of security. Rules and consequences should be fully explained ahead of time, and if you say no, stick to it. Finally, always remember to give positive reinforcements for improvement in behavior.