Mental Health Services Center
Supporting People with Vision Loss
Coping with vision loss can be difficult. There are often overwhelming emotions that accompany it, including anxiety, frustration, fear, anger and depression -- especially if you've been recently diagnosed.
Lighthouse has long been a beacon of hope for people of all ages facing the life-altering challenges of vision loss. Our mental health team comprised of psychiatrists and licensed psychotherapists can diagnose and treat those overpowering feelings that vision loss can create.
Compassionate, Comprehensive Care
We're here to:
- Conduct evaluations
- Provide psychotherapy and suggest treatment plans
- Prescribe medication when necessary
- Provide family support
- Link you to other helpful Lighthouse services to maximize your remaining vision, and help you remain safe and self-sufficient
Common Feelings
"At first, quite simply, I wanted to die. I retreated. I did not go out with friends. I became a loner, always hiding the problem. When I was ready to give up, the people at the Lighthouse would not." -- Victoria Parker
While depression and anxiety are not inevitable consequences of vision loss, they are quite common. And they are treatable.
According to Lighthouse research, rates of depression are higher among older adults with vision impairment than among their peers who are sighted. These higher rates are often due to the impact vision loss has had on their lives rather than the actual severity of the loss.
We also diagnose and treat anxiety and mood disorders, among other conditions that can interfere with your productivity and quality of life.
In addition to individual and family psychotherapy services, we offer counseling groups so people can share their feelings with others facing the same challenges.
"I never thought I needed help. I said, 'No. I'm a brave guy. I'm doing fine.' But after attending a Lighthouse counseling group, I realized I do need help.... I'm very happy now. Even my wife says, 'you're a different person!' " -- Salvatore Minucci
Get Started on a New Path Today!
We're here to provide support at every step along the way for children, teenagers and adults. The Lighthouse is a Medicare and Medicaid provider, and accepts many insurance plans. Your insurance may cover all or a portion of Lighthouse fees.
Ask your doctor to refer you to the Lighthouse, or call (800) 829-0500.
The Sol and Lillian Goldman Building
111 East 59th Street
New York, NY 10022-1202
Tel (212) 821-9200
(800) 829-0500
Fax (212) 821-9707
The Lighthouse Mental Health Services Center is approved by the New York State Office of Mental Health.