Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment at Gulfport Behavioral Health System is designed to help adults overcome emotional or mental health issues using medication management or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). It is for individuals who need psychiatric treatment but do not require the intensive 24-hour care of inpatient treatment.

Outpatient programs can serve as transitions from or alternatives to inpatient treatment. The level of care we initially recommend to an individual is determined by the results of a free, confidential assessment.

We proudly offer all our programs to active military members and their families through TRICARE®.

The board-certified adult psychiatrists at Gulfport Behavioral Health System offer outpatient medication management services to address mental health problems and psychiatric diagnoses. The goal is to optimize drug therapy and improve outcomes for people taking medication, especially those who have several chronic conditions and take several drugs to manage them. Medication therapy management can help patients meet their goals, increase their optimal functioning and enrich their lives.

Medications that affect mood or thought process are called psychotropics. Psychiatrists specialize in these types of medication that can address depression, mood imbalances and other types of mental health issues.

Your provider will share information regarding the types of medications prescribed to you and potential side effects. For many, a trial of the medication is required to determine if the benefits outweigh any potential side effects. If you experience unwanted side effects, make sure to consult your provider. Some medications require a gradual discontinuation because abrupt cessation can worsen symptoms.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure commonly used to treat depression. It uses magnetic pulse to stimulate brain cells that control mood. This treatment option is for moderately treatment-resistant patients and people intolerant of antidepressant medications.

During the non-invasive procedure, patients are seated in a reclining chair and a padded electromagnetic coil is placed against the scalp near the forehead. The coil is focused on the limbic system structures in the brain, which control emotional and behavioral patterns. Treatments usually take place over a period of four to six weeks. With successful TMS treatment, depression symptoms may improve or go away completely.

To schedule an appointment, please call 228-236-2000.