The majority of free clinic patients have underlying behavioral health needs – ranging from significant depression and anxiety disorders to PTSD and domestic violence – which impact overall wellness and treatment processes.
In 2002, Arlington Free Clinic became the first free clinic in Virginia to integrate Mental Health services within a primary care setting. Today, volunteer psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, social workers, counselors and students provide nearly 900 mental health visits for AFC patients each year. The goal is to help patients reach a level of functioning that allows them to better care for themselves and their families, and be more productive in their workplaces, communities and doctors’ offices.
Special thanks to Mike Bennett for donating videography services to help share AFC’s story.