NAMI Southwest Washington

"I don't understand that one star review, this place is amazing. Maybe they were expecting more from it than it can offer, it's not like it's an actual psychologist office, they're just there to help offer support. And to complain about armchair diagnosis, that's what therapy is. I haven't done any actual sessions there but would gladly do it. I attend the art group and did one of the zoom groups and the people are super nice and attentive to your needs. I can't praise them enough."

"I have provided care for schizoprenics and bipolar people one-on-one and in facilities. I believe NAMI Vancouver needs a do-up. NAMI Vancouver has encouraged trainers to perform "armchair diagnoses". They label people mentally ill based on bias and ignorance. Their leaders stigmatize mental illness. I have heard one of them say that the homeless who ask for help actually "want" to be homeless. Some of their members and affiliates believe that being low income and/or in denial are huge descriptors for a mentally ill person, when nowadays behavior is what determines most diagnoses from what I've seen. There is domestic violence behind the home doors of at least one long-time NAMI Vancouver leader. Some of their leaders fail to acknowledge and understand how late stage alcoholism and recovery intersect with mental problems and mental clarity. As a national organization, I believe they poorly maintained their online chat forum to a standard so abysmal that it was not useful on a meaningful level for peer connecting. They don't acknowledge Munchaussen's Syndrome by Proxy (See DSM-V) at all, even though it is a "mental illness". Their local leaders should stop judgmentally stigmatizing people for mental illness and start using the words "behavioral health" more."

"Great place for mental health support services"

"This place is amazing. The most compassionate, accepting and understanding mental health group in town!! They use a personalized approach to every individual, offer info on many resources, and accept most insurance plans. Staff is incredibly friendly and helpful while still remaining professional and confidential."

"The place to go when you need an advocate for you or your family member surrounding mental health."