Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice is taking a bold step forward in providing vital care for the community. Behavioral health counseling, already a cornerstone of the Catholic Charities mission, is now available through telehealth services across all 10 counties of the Diocese.
This expansion makes compassionate, professional care accessible to anyone, whether they live in a rural area, face transportation challenges, or simply feel more comfortable receiving support from home.
Why Behavioral Health Matters
Mental and emotional well-being touches every part of our lives. Struggles with depression, anxiety, grief, or stress are not signs of weakness, they are part of the human condition. Left untreated, however, these challenges can impact physical health, relationships, and even the health of entire communities.
Behavioral health counseling can help individuals address a wide range of concerns, including:
- Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss
- Anxiety, worry, or panic
- Grief after the loss of a loved one
- Relationship struggles or family conflict
- Difficulty managing stress from work or caregiving
- Loneliness or isolation
- Coping with major life changes
- Trauma or post-traumatic stress
- Substance abuse or unhealthy coping mechanisms
These are real challenges faced by people every day, like neighbors, co-workers, parishioners, and even ourselves. Seeking help is not only courageous but an important step toward healing and wholeness.
“When people care for their mental health, they often discover renewed strength in every part of their lives, physically, spiritually, and emotionally,” shares Erika Piñeros, Director of Behavioral Health for Catholic Charities.
The Link Between Mind, Body, and Community
Experts have long recognized the powerful connection between mental health and physical health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to physical illness, while chronic illness often worsens emotional struggles. Addressing behavioral health needs can reduce doctor visits, improve recovery, and even extend life expectancy.
But the impact goes far beyond the individual. When people feel supported and cared for:
- Families experience healthier relationships
- Workplaces become more productive
- Communities grow stronger and more resilient
In this way, behavioral health care is truly a form of community health care. As people heal and find new strength, they are better able to contribute, connect, and thrive.
Why Telehealth Makes a Difference
For many, accessing behavioral health services has not always been easy. Transportation, distance, and work schedules can make it difficult to attend regular appointments. Others may feel uncomfortable walking into a counseling center in their own town.
Telehealth changes all of that. With a computer, tablet, or even a smartphone, clients can connect confidentially with licensed Catholic Charities counselors from the privacy of their own home. Appointments are secure, flexible, and designed to meet clients where they are.
Erika Piñeros explains: “Telehealth allows us to serve more people than ever before, especially those who might otherwise go without care. We are breaking down barriers and reminding our community that no one has to struggle alone.”
How to Access Services
Behavioral telehealth appointments are available now throughout the Diocese. Services are offered in both English and Spanish, and Catholic Charities works to ensure care is affordable, with options for sliding-scale fees.
If you or someone you love is facing challenges with mental health, we invite you to reach out today. Hope and healing are just a phone call – or a click – away.
As Catholic Charities expands its outreach, we remain guided by the belief that every person deserves dignity, care, and compassion. Telehealth is not just technology, it is a tool for mercy, a bridge to healing, and a way to ensure that no one is left behind.
To schedule a confidential appointment, call 239-455-2655. Learn more at www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.
