SSM Health Behavioral Health (Angela Center)

“Avoidant & Invalidating Therapist Saw Mel Dane, LCPC at SSM Health Behavioral Health (formerly Angela Center) in Centralia, IL for trauma related to childhood physical abuse and maternal betrayal. After a previous harmful therapy experience, I asked direct questions in the first session to assess fit. She refused to answer, citing boundaries. I proceeded for 2–3 months. When I raised concerns again and explained the prior invalidation, she avoided clear validation (e.g., wouldn’t say “what your mom did was wrong”) and framed my need for it as “supporting hatred.” Felt evasive and unsafe. If you need a therapist comfortable with direct validation of maternal betrayal or childhood abuse, look elsewhere.”

“I love Amber but her nurse Eunice hasn’t called me back & I have called twice . I’m really upset”

“I had to wait about 2 weeks for my initial appointment. After that I was scheduled with psych the next day to start meds. About 3 weeks later I was able to start couceling. I had some med issues in the beginning but used MyChart to directly message the Drs and nurses. They got back to me within a couple of hours and we got stuff switched. I am feel better than I have in years! Also, staff is always friendly!”

“The Psychiatrist and the Staff (Thanks Janet!) truly saved my life. After dealing with Mental Health issues for 30 years, I had almost given up. When I saw the Psychiatrist for the first time, I felt something that I had forgotten I could feel: Hope. Hope that although life may not ever be perfect, it can be much better. I was so deeply depressed that the Nurse (Janet) called me twice in the next 2 weeks to see how I was doing. I was touched by her concern. I extremely happy that I began treatment again, because if not I wouldn't be here to say to those who are hurting... "I know it can be difficult to ask for help. You can give up anytime, so please don't hurry. Life can be so much better, I promise. You only have to reach out your hand and let someone help. The Angela Center can help". I can only give 5 Stars here. But I would give them a billion if I could. How many stars is a life worth? More than you can see in the night sky.”