Resource Center
Behavioral Health Services
Crisis
Hotlines
County of San Diego
Beneficiary Handbook
Mental Health Plan Beneficiaries (MHP)
Beneficiary Handbook
Drug Meds-Cal Organized Delivery Sysem Beneficiaries (DMC_ODS)
Updates: February 2023
MHP Beneficiaries
Updates: February 2023
DMC_ODS Beneficiaries
Other
TBD
Other
TBD
24/7 Suicide and Crisis Hotline
Call or Text: 988
24/7 Access and Crisis Line
1-888-724-7240
24/7 National Suicide Prevention Hotline
1-800-273-8255
24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-7233
24/7 Child Abuse Hotline
1-800-344-6000
24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-4673
Peer 2 Peer Youth Text – Mon-Fri 2PM-6PM
1-619-377-7111
News, Events, & Information
Natalia Esparza-Bugarin, AMFT
Natalia Esparza-Bugarin, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist provides therapy services in English and Spanish. She recently graduated from her Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at Alliant International University. She received her Bachelor...
Save the Date! A Professional Journey into Neurodiversity and Neurodiversity Affirming Care – 2 Part Series
Join us for a transformative two-part workshop designed specifically for professionals in the mental health field. This engaging series delves into the rapidly emerging field of mental health practice with neurodivergent clients, offering invaluable insights and...
Celebrating Thankfulness: The Importance of Giving Thanks During Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday centered around food and festivity; it's a dedicated time to reflect on the aspects of life we cherish most and to express gratitude for them. As we gather with family and friends, the act of giving thanks becomes even more...
Prevention Intervention Specialist – Incredible Years® School-Based Prevention Early Intervention Program
WHO WE ARE Palomar Family Counseling Service (PFCS) is one of most recognized and respected providers of mental health services in North San Diego County. Established in 1956, PFCS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive services...
Preparing for the Holidays: Boundaries Edition
Dr. Nicole Asencio, LMFT It is that time of the year where most folks are spending some concentrated time with their families. For some this may be a joyous time and they have been looking forward to spending time with their loved ones. It could also be a time that is...
A Deployed Military Spouse: Tips for Maintaining Connection and Well-being
Having a spouse deployed in the military can be an emotional and challenging period, filled with unique stressors and responsibilities. Here are some practical tips to help maintain your emotional well-being, keep your relationship strong, and effectively support your...
Elyssa Becerra, AMFT
About Me I am a first-generation Hispanic and Latin-American Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, bringing a culturally attuned and compassionate perspective to my work. My background as a Registered Behavior Technician includes supporting children and adults on...
Embracing Halloween: Cultivating Positive Mental Health Through Festive Fun
Halloween is often celebrated as a holiday full of playful scares, creative costumes, and candy. But this festive occasion is also an opportunity to boost mental health by embracing its activities in ways that foster joy, creativity, and community connection. The Joy...
National Make a Difference Day: Empowering Change Through Action
National Make a Difference Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a call to action for all of us to contribute positively to the world around us.
Managing Stress in a Hectic World: Tips for Busy People
In today's fast-paced world, stress can seem unavoidable, especially for those with demanding schedules. However, managing stress effectively is crucial not only for maintaining productivity but also for ensuring overall well-being. Here are some practical tips to...
Understanding Domestic Violence: Breaking the Silence
Domestic violence is a critical issue that affects individuals and families across all demographics, transcending age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status. It is a pervasive problem that often goes unreported and unaddressed due to stigma, fear, and...
The Importance of Social-Emotional Learning in Prevention and Early Intervention for Youth
In today’s rapidly changing world, the emotional and social well-being of children has gained unprecedented attention. For elementary and middle school-aged youth, the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) cannot be overstated. It serves as a foundational...
The Psychological Effects of Domestic Violence: Beyond the Physical Scars
Domestic violence is a pervasive and devastating issue that affects countless individuals across all demographics. While the physical injuries caused by domestic violence can be painfully visible and often garner immediate attention from healthcare providers, law...
The Vital Connection Between Mental Health and Work
Mental Health in the Workplace Supporting the mental health of staff is crucial for maintaining a productive, positive, and sustainable work environment. Prioritizing mental health not only helps individuals feel valued but also benefits the organization as a whole by...
Domestic Violence: The Effect on Families and Communities
Domestic violence has profound and far-reaching effects on families and communities. Here are some of the key impacts: Effects on Families: Emotional and Psychological Impact: Victims often suffer from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)....
The Impact of Social Media on Children & Adolescents
The impact of social media on the mental health of children and adolescents is a complex and multifaceted issue. Here are some of the key effects, both positive and negative: Positive Impacts Social Connectivity: Social media can help children and adolescents stay...
Suicide Awareness Month: How to Help Someone Who Is Suicidal
Part 3 in a 3 part series: Suicide Awareness Month - Recognizing the Signs, Getting Help, and Saving Lives Juliet Christensen, LMFT September is Suicide Awareness Month, a time to confront a difficult but essential topic. Suicide touches many lives—whether through...
Suicide Awareness Month: What to do if you’re having suicidal thoughts
Part 2 in a 3 part series: Suicide Awareness Month - Recognizing the Signs, Getting Help, and Saving Lives Juliet Christensen, LMFT September is Suicide Awareness Month, a time to confront a difficult but essential topic. Suicide touches many lives—whether through...
Francesca Kohani, AMFT / APCC
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for families, children, teens, and young adults. I believe in the power of compassionate understanding and...
Suicide Prevention: Professional Development Workshop with Whisper Snyder
Healing Through Understanding: Integrating Personal Loss Into Suicide Prevention Join us September 24th for a very special professional development workshop. Presenter: Whisper Snyder, LMFT Continuing Education Credits Offered: 6 Date: September 24, 2024...
San Diego Gives 2024
Welcome! At Palomar Family Counseling Service, we offer more than counseling. We are a pillar of mental health support for families and individuals with accessible, inclusive, and affordable care in multiple locations across North San Diego County. With a...
Suicide Awareness Month: Recognizing the Warning Signs
Part 1 in a 3 part series: Suicide Awareness Month - Recognizing the Signs, Getting Help, and Saving Lives Juliet Christensen, LMFT September is Suicide Awareness Month, a time to confront a difficult but essential topic. Suicide touches many lives—whether through...
Sachiko Yamauchi Zhang, AMFT
Sometimes, it feels like everything is going wrong. Problems come at us one after another, leaving us barely able to breathe. The worst part? We feel completely alone—no one notices or offers help. Our partners are upset, the kids bring home their own troubles, and...
Back to School with Teens: Tips for Parents Who Just Want to Survive
Ah, back to school with teenagers. If you’ve ever found yourself staring wistfully at your toddler’s old sippy cup, reminiscing about the days when your biggest challenge was finding a matching pair of shoes, I feel you. As a Marriage and Family Therapist and mom of...
Back to School Survival Tips for Parents: How to Keep Your Sanity Intact
From Juli Christensen, LMFT - PFCS Therapist and mom to 13! It’s that time of year again—school supply lists, first-day outfits, and the sweet sound of silence returning to yourhome after a summer of “I’m bored!” If you’re anything like me, the start of the school...
Andrea Castro, MS, AMFT
I am a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified Health Coach. Also, I work as a facilitator in the Parenting Training program at Elementary schools. I became a health counselor to fulfill my passion for working with children and parents to improve...
Raylyn Mason, LMFT
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I feel most accomplished with my work with students of all ages to overcome their social and emotional challenges. I have been the Educationally Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS) provider for the Valley Center Pauma...
Benoit Vincent, LMFT
When an individual, a couple, or family members decide to share their life challenges, relational struggles, and suffering with a therapist, they seek to engage in a relationship to obtain some relief by making new meaning to their life experiences. During these...
PFCS launches a new 3 year strategic plan
We are delighted to share our new three year strategic plan, created with the support of Betsy Uhrman and Kaya Tith of Health management Associates. The plan features our newly reimagined Vision and Mission, and is based on a comprehensive description and...
PFCS receives grant from the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities
We are delighted to receive a grant from the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) to support "Elevate" an initiative to provide advanced, evidence based clinical training to therapists and supervisors across all of our youth serving programs. The grant...
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Four Years of Success!
When parents are unable to raise their children, it is often grandparents who step in. Grandfamilies thrive when they get the support they need. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren is a comprehensive service that fosters healthy grandparents and a strong and stable...
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
We live in a rapidly changing world that can be complex to navigate. About half of Americans can remember a time when we were notconstantly connected and it was easier to tune out the noise of the world, while the younger half of the population can’t imagine life...
Gwen Evans, APCC
Gwen Evans, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, is a clinical therapist in Escondido and Fallbrook. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and was also inducted into Chi Sigma Iota, Counseling’s Academic...
Juliet Christensen, LMFT
A compassionate and experienced psychotherapist, I have dedicated my career to supporting the growth and development of individuals, families, and couples. With over 15 years of experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my work with various issues,...
Therapist Profile: Arturo Morales, MA, AMFT
As a psychotherapist, my greatest reward comes from empowering individuals, couples, and adolescents to navigate life's challenges and build resilience. For over two decades, I've dedicated myself to service, first as a Marine officer, then as an educator, and...
Therapist Profile: Patti Christensen, LCSW
I am a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is a master clinician and supervisor, providing therapy for teens, and adults of all ages for over 25 years. I have worked for Palomar Family Counseling Services for over 17 years. Within a safe, non-judgmental...
Conceptualizing and Supporting Families and Children Through an Attachment-Based Approach
Join us for the third in a six part series of professional development workshops offered by Palomar Family Counseling Service in 2024 designed to enhance scope of practices for therapists and others working in the mental health field. Workshop Title: Conceptualizing...
Parker Foundation support results in increased capacity to meet the mental health needs of our community.
The demand for high quality, accessible, mental health services has never been higher. We recognized a tremendous need to improve our operational and financial efficiency to meet this demand and we turned to the Gerald T. and Inez Grant Parker Foundation for help. ...
The Youth Mental Health Crisis: 10 Ways Parents Can Help
In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the state of youth mental health. With the rise of anxiety, depression, and suicide ideology among teenagers, it's more important than ever for parents to actively support their teen's mental well-being. Here are...
Marriage / Couples Counseling: A Path to Relationship Growth
Maintaining a healthy and happy relationship takes effort and commitment from both partners. However, sometimes couples may find themselves facing relationship issues that seem insurmountable. In these moments, seeking help from a licensed therapist through couples...
Clinical Work with Latinx Populations: March 27, 2024
Join us for the second in a six part series of professional development workshops offered by Palomar Family Counseling Service in 2024 designed to support and strengthen the mental health of our communities. Workshop Title: Clinical Work with Latinx Populations...
Spotlight on the new collaborative partnership with the Fallbrook Regional Health District
On January 30, 2024 the Fallbrook Regional Health District hosted an Open House at their Community Health & Wellness Center to officially launch our new collaborative partnership and to spotlight our collective dedication to mental health and community support....
Strategies to Beat the January Blues: Bouncing Back from the Gloomiest Month of the Year
As the holiday season fades away, the arrival of January can often leave us feeling a sense of gloom. The colder weather, shorter daylight hours, returning debts, and the absence of friends and family gatherings can all contribute to the infamous “January blues.” However, navigating this time of year with a focus on mental health is crucial. In this blog, we will discuss strategies to beat the January blues and bounce back with a positive mindset.
Understanding Your Duties: Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training
Join us for the first in a six-part series offered to staff and trainers as part of our ongoing commitment to professional development. Workshop Title: Understanding Your Duties: Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training Presenter: Child & Family Well-Being...
2023: A Very Successful Year
This year we were honored to receive funding for new initiatives from San Diego Foundation, Dr. Seuss Foundation, The San Diego Women's Foundation, Rest Haven Children's Health Fund, the County of San Diego and the Fallbrook Regional Health District. This funding...
New Year’s resolutions: Are they good for your mental health?
As we start a new year, it's common for many of us to reflect on the past year and start thinking about what changes we want to make in the upcoming one. New Year's resolutions have become a popular tradition, with people setting goals and making promises to...
The Holiday Season and Mental Health: You Are Not Alone
The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. However, for many people, it can also be a challenging period filled with grief, loneliness, and despair. The festivities can exacerbate feelings of isolation and highlight the...
The Importance of Self-Care for Mental Health
When we prioritize self-care, we are better able to manage stress and other challenges, and we are more resilient in the face of difficult situations. Self-care can also improve our mood, increase our sense of self-worth, and help us feel more connected to ourselves and others.
A Fond Farewell to Jensen Shirley
PFCS staff gathered on November 20 to celebrate the retirement of Jensen Shirley, EdD, APCC. Jensen began with the agency as a graduate student in 2016. He contributed to mission fulfillment in so many ways, particularly at Surfside Educational Academy in Oceanside. ...
Overcoming Stigma: The Importance of Seeking Help for Mental Health Issues
Mental health issues are a common and treatable condition. Seeking help for these issues is a sign of strength and courage, not weakness.
Telehealth: Legal and Ethical Compliance Training for CA Mental Health Providers
PFCS is hosting a three hour workshop on the legal and ethical aspects of Telehealth for our staff and trainees as part of our ongoing commitment to professional development. Presenter: Elizabeth Nua, LMFT & Nicole Ascencio, Psy.D. Date: November 20, 2023 Time:...
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, but its impact on mental health is a topic of much debate. While social media can connect us to others and provide a sense of community, it can also contribute to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and...
Understanding the link between stress and mental health.
Stress is a natural response to challenging or dangerous situations, but when stress becomes chronic, it can have a significant impact on our mental health. Chronic stress has been linked to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. In this...
Heading back to high school? Two tips for success from PFCS Therapist, Juli Christensen.
Gearing up to begin another year of high school can be equal parts exciting and daunting. PFCS Therapist Juli Christensen offers to tips for success.
Back to School Tips with PFCS Therapist Benoit Vincent
Back to School Tips for Kids & Parents The new school year means new friends, teachers, clothes, and classrooms. It’s normal for kids (and their parents) to feel anxious about returning to school. Here are some simple ways to ease the transition from vacation-mode...
San Diego Gives: Early Giving is open!
Early giving for San Diego Gives officially opens today and we have an Early Giving match! Thanks to the incredible generosity of one of our donors, your donation of $50 or more will be matched 100%. This $2500 match is in effect from now until we reach that target....
5 Ways to Cultivate a Positive Mindset and Boost Mental Resilience
In today's fast-paced and stress-filled world, it's becoming increasingly important to prioritize our mental wellness. Cultivating a positive mindset and developing mental resilience are essential for our overall well-being. Resilience allows us to bounce back from...
Hobbies for Mental Health
In today's fast-paced world, where we are constantly bombarded with responsibilities and deadlines, it's important to take a step back and prioritize our mental health. One effective way to do this is by engaging in hobbies that bring us joy and relaxation. Hobbies...
Mindfulness Exercises: A Great Way to Relax and Refocus
Mindfulness exercises are a great way to reduce stress and increase wellbeing. Give these exercises a try and see how they can help you feel calmer and more balanced 1. Breathing Meditation - This is a great exercise for beginners. Find a comfortable place to sit and...
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Backpack Give Away Event A Huge Success
Extraordinary People "There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about." Margaret J. Wheatley submitted by Elizabeth Nua, LMFT Thank you to all who donated and worked together to make this Grandparents Raising Grandchildren...
Breaking the Stigma: Shifting the Narrative on Mental Health in Society
In today's fast-paced world, discussions surrounding mental health have become increasingly relevant. Despite this progress, there is still a prevailing stigma surrounding mental illness that hinders individuals from seeking proper help and support. Stigma, often...
Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health During School Breaks: A Parenting Guide
As parents, we constantly strive to provide our children with the best opportunities for growth. While it is crucial to focus on their academic achievements, it is equally important to prioritize their mental well-being. School breaks, though meant to be a time for...
Echoes of Resilience: An emotional journey through the harrowing impact of PTSD.
"Echoes of Resilience" takes you on an emotional journey through the harrowing impact of PTSD as experienced by National University alumni, devoted mother, and mental health advocate Whisper Tennis. In the face of tragedy, Whisper emerges as a beacon of strength and...
Rest Haven Children’s Health Fund & PFCS Case Manager Maricela Garcia: Helping families in need
PFCS Case Manager Maricela Garcia and Rest Haven Children’s Emergency Grant Fund provide much needed support to families in need.
Connecting Matters: A new support group in Fallbrook
Connections matter. PFCS will launch a new support group at the Fallrook Regional Health District's Community Wellness Center this spring. Connecting Matters will run for 3 consecutive Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. May 10, 17, & 24 and is designed for...
Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds – Making a Difference in the Lives of Fallbrook Area Residents
Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds has become an integral part of a full range of comprehensive mental and behavioral health services provided by PFCS.
PFCS Employee Selected as 2023 Public Health Champion!
Congratulations to PFCS Employee Graciela Moreno on her selection as a recipient of the 2023 Live Well San Diego Annual Public Health Champion award. Graciela was named as the North Inland Regional recipient. This honor is bestowed on behalf of the Public Health...
Emotionally Focused Therapy with Couples
PFCS is hosting a three hour workshop on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with Couples presented by Jason Linder, PsyD for our staff and trainees as part of our ongoing commitment to professional development. Date: May 11, 2023 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. Location:...
The Mental Health of Children & Youth: A Therapist’s Perspective.
Mental health challenges in children, adolescents, and young adults are real, and they are widespread.But most importantly, they are treatable, and often preventable.
Spread Comfort & Joy This Holiday Season
Spread comfort & joy this holiday season for children, youth, families and adults in need. Our Comfort and Joy campaign coordinates the generosity and caring of people like you with needy individuals served in our mental health programs. For many of our fellow...
The Parent Perspective: A Conversation with Boad Member Don Romo
In this episode of the Mental Health Matters podcast, PFCS Board Member Don Romo discusses the system of care for people living with mental illness and his lived experience as a parent. His insight and perspective enriches our Board of Directors. We are honored that...
Mental Health and Preschool Aged Children
PFCS Therapist Stephanie Rivera discusses how the mental health of parents can impact young children. Stephanie also discusses how to address behavioral challenges in preschool aged children and the impact adverse childhood experiences can have on adolescents.
Relationship 101: A Ten Week Group Specially Designed for Couples to Strengthen Their Relationship
It is relieving to recognize that you are not alone and that your struggles sound pretty much just like other couples. A couples therapy group is a place where it is safe to be real in your relationship with your partner — in front of other people. Relationship 101 is...
Donate your myWalgreens Cash Rewards to PFCS through 8/31/22
We're participating in the myWalgreens donation program! At Walgreens, you’ll earn unlimited 1% Walgreens Cash rewards when you shop with your myWalgreens membership and you can contribute $1, $5, or more of your Walgreens Cash rewards to local and national charities...
California Legislature Assembly Certificate of Recogniton
We are honored to receive a Certificate of Recogniton from the California Legistalure Assembly and Assemblymember Marie Waldron of the 75th District for our support and contribution to communtiy engagement with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.
Safety Tips to Beat the Heat
Don’t let the summer heat get the best of you.
Incredible Parents
Parenting programs are a key strategy for the prevention and early treatment of children’s conduct problems.
Youth Mental Health Crisis: The Next Wave of the Pandemic
“We have seen a nearly two-fold increase in depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms among children and adolescents. Nearly 20 percent of kids are experiencing depression that’s impairing them, nearly 25 percent of kids are experiencing anxiety that’s impairing them.”
The new 988 mental health hotline is live. Here’s what to know.
People experiencing a mental health crisis have a new way to reach out for help in the U.S. Starting Saturday, they can simply call or text the numbers 9-8-8.
San Diego Gives 2022 – Kicks off on July 16th!
We are excited to be part of San Diego Gives, which shines a light on pressing community needs and the nonprofits responding to them. Join us on September 8th.
Dina Camp is Back – July 19th to August 11!
Dina Camp is a fun-filled weekly event offering Dinosaur School for kids & workshops for parents.
Register for Mesa Rim Climbing Gym: July 30th & August 6th
Mesa Rim North City and PFCS are partnering to offer two free events for up to 20 participants at each event. Ideal for ages 7 to 14. Events will take place on July 30th and August 6th.
Fallbrook Regional Health District Grant Awards
We are pleased to announce that the Board of Directors of the Fallbrook Regional Health District (FRHD) has once again awarded grants for FY 2022/2023 for our Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds and Grandparents Raising Grandchildren programs for residents of the...
988 Mental Health Crisis Hotline to launch in July 2022
988 is not just a new number to call, it is an opportunity to rethink how we approach mental health, substance use disorders, and suicide prevention in our communities. The United States needs a thoughtful and comprehensive response to mental health or substance use...
PFCS selected to participate in the myWalgreens donation program
Donate your myWalgreens cash rewards to Palomar Family Counseling Service through 08/31/22. At Walgreens, you’ll earn unlimited 1% Walgreens Cash rewards when you shop and you can choose how much to donate. It’s that easy. Whether you’d like to contribute $1, $5, or...
Transforming Mental Health with Horses
We are excited to launch a new service to treat trauma, grief, sadness, anxiety, loss, relationship issues, addiction and so much more. Turnout, based on the Eagala model, an innovative approach that provides an alternative option for treatment with no need for talk...
An Emerging Youth Mental Health Crisis
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health challenges were the leading cause of disability and poor life outcomes in young people, with up to 1 in 5 children ages 3 to 17 in the U.S. having a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder. The stringent...
Advice To My Younger Self
We asked our board and staff this question: What advice would you give your younger self? Here’s what some of us had to say.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
The Prevention & Early Intervention Team along with their Incredible Years® friends celebrate mental health awareness month with strategies to stay mentally healthy. The Incredible Years® model is used as a prevention and early intervention strategy for all...
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a global phenomenon that can happen to anyone regardless of gender, education, profession, nationality, socioeconomic status, culture, age, religion, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. Generally speaking, domestic violence occurs when one partner...
Check Us Out On The Incredible YearsⓇ Blog!
North Coastal Prevention and Early Intervention ProgramVirtual DinoSchool TeachersOur North Coastal Prevention and Early Intervention program created innovative strategies to implement the Incredible YearsⓇ social emotional curriculum during this current health...
Building Resiliency in Times of Crisis
The Buddha once asked a student: “If a person is struck by an arrow, is it painful? If the person is struck by a second arrow, is it even more painful?” He then explained, “In life, we cannot always control the first arrow. However, the second arrow is our reaction to...