What is Behavioral Health?

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines behavioral health to include “the promotion of emotional health; the prevention of mental illnesses and substance use disorders; and treatments and services for mental and/or substance use disorders.”

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What’s the difference between behavioral health and mental health?

The terms behavioral health and mental health are often used interchangeably, so what’s the difference between the two? Behavioral health is a blanket term that includes mental health, but specially refers to a continuum of services for individuals at risk of, or suffering from, mental, behavioral, or addictive disorders.

What is a Behavioral Health Professional?

A person who is licensed by the state, whose professional activities address a client’s behavioral issues; examples include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioners, marriage and family counselors, professional clinical counselors, licensed drug/alcohol abuse counselors and mental health professionals.

What do behavioral health professionals do?

Substance abuse and mental health counselors advise, provide support and treatment to people who suffer from alcoholism, drug addiction, mental health issues or other behavioral problems.