Connections Mental Health - Tustin

Comfortable, Home-like Residential Setting

The center offers residential treatment in a calm, home-like environment. A small program size allows clinicians to provide plenty of individualized attention and foster close therapeutic relationships. The intimate setting helps reduce overstimulation, which can be essential during periods of crisis or emotional instability. Clients stay in bright, air-conditioned rooms and have access to indoor and outdoor relaxation areas. Healthy, freshly prepared meals by an in-house chef are served to support nutrition and wellness.

Evidence-Based Therapies and Medication Management

Treatment combines evidence-based modalities with medical oversight. Core therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for addressing thought patterns, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma recovery, and motivational interviewing to support personal change. Licensed clinicians and psychiatric professionals collaborate to provide medication management, ensuring that prescriptions are monitored and adjusted for safety and effectiveness.

Trauma-Informed Mental Health Treatment

The center serves adults experiencing a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, and psychotic disorders. The program also supports individuals experiencing emotional crises who require structured, round-the-clock support. Each treatment plan is personalized to address the client’s history, diagnosis, and specific goals for recovery. Frequent one-on-one therapy, collaborative goal setting, and ongoing progress evaluations ensure care remains flexible and responsive.

Continuing Care and a Connected Network

Founded by individuals who have personally experienced the process of mental health recovery, the program emphasizes therapeutic work that focuses on identifying strengths, addressing trauma, and fostering emotional regulation skills that can be applied in daily life. Before discharge, the team supports clients in developing a continuing care plan to sustain progress. The center is part of District Behavioral Health, which operates sister facilities across California and in Florida specializing in inpatient and outpatient care for mental health and substance use. When desired, staff can refer clients to continuing care options within the network.

Client Reviews

Clients and families consistently describe Connections OC in Tustin as a compassionate, professional place for recovery. Reviews highlight attentive staff, clean and welcoming environments, and follow-through after discharge. A couple reviews mention administrative or billing concerns.

• Staff & Care Experience (95% positive): Reviewers often praise the empathy of the team. Many credit individual staff for helping them or their loved ones feel seen and supported through difficult moments. "The staff treated them with dignity, compassion, and understanding."
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (90% positive): Clients frequently describe meaningful progress in mental health and recovery. They note personalized care, skilled therapists, and a balance of clinical and holistic approaches. "They helped me work through fears and become the person I am today."
• Facility & Environment (85% positive): The setting is described as home-like and peaceful. "They have a beautiful well-kept home and take the clients on fantastic outings."
• Family Involvement & Support (90% positive): Families often express gratitude for the communication and follow-up they received after discharge. "We felt well informed and supported every step of the way."