How to help someone you love.
Getting a struggling friend or family member to accept help is one of the hardest conversations you'll ever have. We've been doing this for forty years — let us walk you through it.
When someone you love is hurting.
If a friend or family member is showing signs that their mental health is suffering, the most important thing you can do is act early.
This page is for you — the spouse, parent, sibling, or close friend trying to figure out the next right step. Our admissions team can take your call at: (425) 670-9102
Mon–Fri 8am–7pm PT · Sat 9am–7pm PT.
Treatment here goes beyond managing symptoms. We take a Whole Person Care approach, meaning we look at every dimension of your loved one’s life: physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual. Our compassionate team of licensed counselors, psychiatric providers, medical doctors, dietitians, and fitness trainers works together to understand what’s driving your loved one’s struggles, not just what’s on the surface.
A safe, healing environment for your loved one.
The Center is located steps from the Edmonds waterfront in Washington State — a calm, coastal setting designed to help clients decompress and focus entirely on their wellbeing. Families often tell us how much peace of mind it brings knowing their loved one is somewhere beautiful and safe.
Five Tips on How to Talk to a Loved One Who Needs Help
Have an outline ready
Be ready for them to brush off or deny your concerns. Knowing what you want to say in advance keeps the conversation productive when emotions rise.
Stay calm — both of you
It will be hard, but staying out of defensiveness and argument is what makes them feel safe enough to actually hear you.
Use reflective listening
Repeat back what they've said in your own words, without agreeing or disagreeing. It opens them up faster than advice ever will.
Make the next step easy
Offer to help book the appointment. Offer to call insurance. Offer to go with them to the first session. Reduce the friction by any amount you can.
Lead with love, not fear
Speak from a place of care, not crisis. Naming what you love about them — and what you've seen change — lands better than warnings or ultimatums.
When they're ready, we're ready.
If your loved one is concerned about a long admissions process and wants to start treatment quickly, we offer one-day admissions for clients who qualify.
The most important thing is that first phone call. You’re welcome to join your loved one when they speak with our admissions team, who will walk you both through the process and gather everything needed to build the right program for them. We look at their history, relationships, goals, and individual needs, so treatment is tailored from day one.
We’re here to help your loved one get the care they need.
Common questions
What is the average length of stay?
Four weeks is a typical length of stay, but every client’s needs are different. Some individuals may benefit from a shorter stay, while others may need additional time and support. An Admissions Team Specialist will speak with your friend, family member, or loved one to better understand their needs and help determine the level of care and length of stay that may be most appropriate for them.
Can clients have visitors during their stay?
Our level of care is partial-hospitalization. After 5:00 PM each evening, as well as throughout the day on Sundays, clients have personal free time. During these hours, clients are welcome to spend time with loved ones — whether that includes dinner together, a walk through Edmonds, or enjoying time at the beach.
Do clients have their own private rooms?
There are several local housing options available, including private room accommodations. An Admissions Specialist will work closely with you to help determine the best fit for your loved one’s needs, preferences, and level of comfort.
What about their job?
We recommend requesting a medical leave of absence from work while participating in treatment. Our team can help guide you through the process and provide supporting documentation as appropriate.
Are there classes for nutrition and fitness?
Yes — clients are offered nutritious cooking classes two evenings per week as part of our Whole Person Care approach. We also provide complimentary fitness assessments at The Center, along with a membership to a local fitness center in Edmonds during their program.
How can I help my loved one take the first step?
Our team can help guide your family member, friend, or loved one through the process. The easiest path is to have your loved one call us directly — (425) 670-9102. If that feels like too much, you can also request a callback on their behalf, and we’ll work with both of you on the next step.
Articles for friends and family
- How to Help Someone Who Is Depressed
- How to Help Someone With Anxiety
- How to Help Someone Suffering From PTSD
- How to Help Someone With an Eating Disorder
The most loving thing you can do for someone struggling with their mental health is help them get to people who know how to help.
We'll call you back at a time that works.
We aim to make all callbacks within one business hour. To talk now, call (425) 670-9102.
In-network with Premera, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and many other major insurers.
You don't have to figure this out alone.
Talk to our compassionate admissions team. Mon–Fri 8am–7pm PT · Sat 9am–7pm PT.