Mental Health

We are proud to offer a mental health services to our patients via Best Self Behavioral Services. One of their therapists sees patients in our Springville office. Your pediatrician may recommend their services based on findings of a health assessment.

If you feel your child would benefit from these services, you can make an appointment by asking for a referral through Springville Pediatrics, or you may call Best Self directly at (716) 884-0888.

Services Offered:

Child & Family Counseling
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Adolescents
Functional Family Therapy
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Lee Gross Anthone Child Advocacy Center (CAC)
21st Century Community Learning Program
Home-Based Counseling and Case Management Services
Independent Living Program
Violence Prevention Program

For parents, there is nothing more heartbreaking than the thought of suicide touching their lives. After this final act, many families are left wondering "how could I have prevented this? What signs did I miss?"

Though no guarantee of preventing a tragedy, knowing the risk factors, being observant of changes in your child and early mental health intervention may make all the difference.

Risk factors for suicide include the following:

Previous suicide attempt
Psychological and mental disorders, especially depression and other mood disorders, schizophrenia, and social anxiety
Substance abuse and/or alcohol disorders
History of abuse or mistreatment
Family history of suicide
Feelings of hopelessness
Physical illness
Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
Financial, social or relationship loss
Isolation or lack of social support
Relentless bullying or social ostracization
Easy access to methods/means of suicide
Exposure to others who have committed suicide

Warning signs include the following:

Suicidal threats in the form of direct and indirect statements
Suicide notes and plans
Prior suicidal behavior
Making final arrangements (e.g., making funeral arrangements, writing a will, giving away prized possessions)
Preoccupation with death
Changes in behavior, appearance, thoughts and/or feelings

How can parents and other caregivers help?

The first step is to get involved. Talk to your child. Encourage an open dialogue with them without fear, guilt or embarrassment. Speak to your pediatrician as well, who can offer mental health services specifically designed to meet the needs of an at-risk patient. Most of all, do NOT ignore it or hope the problem will go away.

Ensure your child has a positive environment in which to thrive by instilling the following support:

Psychological and clinical care for physical, mental, and substance abuse disorders
Restricted or limited access to methods/means of suicide
Family and community support
Support from medical and health care personnel
Developing problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills
Religious and cultural belief systems that discourage suicide