Psychotic Disorders Treatment in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Experiencing things that others don’t see or believe? Feeling confused about what’s real or imagined? You may be facing a psychotic disorder—a serious mental health condition that affects perception, thought patterns, and reality.
At Forbs Behavioral Health Services, LLC, we provide professional diagnosis, personalized treatment, and long-term support for individuals living with conditions like schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and delusional disorder. Our mission is to help individuals regain clarity, improve daily functioning, and build a better quality of life through evidence-based care.
Psychotic disorders are mental health conditions that impair an individual’s ability to distinguish reality from illusion. These disorders can significantly disrupt relationships, careers, and overall emotional well-being.
Key Features of Psychosis:
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Hallucinations: Hearing voices, seeing things, or feeling sensations that aren’t real
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Delusions: Strong, irrational beliefs despite evidence to the contrary (e.g., paranoia, grandiosity)
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Disorganized Thinking: Confused speech, erratic behavior, or difficulty staying focused
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Social Withdrawal: Avoiding relationships, work, or daily activities
Psychotic symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly. Early detection is essential to treatment success.
What Are Psychotic Disorders?
Psychotic Disorders Symptoms
While symptoms vary by diagnosis and severity, common signs include:
Hallucinations
Hallucinations mean seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren’t there. For example, someone might see things that aren’t real, hear voices, smell strange odors, have a funny taste in their mouth, or feel sensations on their skin even though nothing is touching them.
Delusions
Delusions are strong false beliefs that don’t change even when proven wrong. For example, a person might believe their food is poisoned, even after being shown it's safe.
Other possible symptoms include:
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Disorganized or incoherent speech
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Confused thinking
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Strange or possibly dangerous behavior
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Slowed or unusual movements
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Loss of interest in personal hygiene
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Loss of interest in activities
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Problems at school, work, or with relationships
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Cold, detached manner with inability to express emotions
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Mood swings or other mood symptoms like depression or mania
If left untreated, psychotic disorders can become more disabling over time. However, with early and consistent care, individuals can recover and thrive.
What Causes Psychotic Disorders?
Psychotic disorders result from a mix of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Common Risk Factors:
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Genetics: A family history of schizophrenia or related conditions
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Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in dopamine, glutamate, and serotonin
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Structural Brain Differences: Changes in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus
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Stress and Trauma: Abuse, neglect, or sudden life changes
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Substance Use: Cannabis, stimulants, hallucinogens, or alcohol misuse
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Medical Conditions: Neurological illnesses, autoimmune responses, or infections
At Forbs Behavioral Health Services, LLC, we assess all these factors to develop a customized, holistic treatment plan.
Medication Management
Antipsychotic medications are the cornerstone of treatment. These medications reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
Types of Medications:
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First-Generation Antipsychotics: (e.g., Haloperidol, Chlorpromazine) – Effective for acute symptoms
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Second-Generation Antipsychotics: (e.g., Risperidone, Olanzapine, Clozapine) – Fewer side effects, also helpful with emotional withdrawal
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Mood Stabilizers/Antidepressants: Often used for schizoaffective disorder or co-occurring mood conditions
Our providers closely monitor medication use to ensure safety, minimize side effects, and improve symptom control.
Psychotherapy & Behavioral Support
Therapy helps clients understand their condition, develop coping skills, and regain social and occupational functioning.
Therapeutic Approaches:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp): Reshapes distorted beliefs and reduces distress caused by symptoms
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Psychoeducation: Helps individuals and families understand the illness and promote treatment adherence
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Social Skills Training: Builds communication, job readiness, and independent living capabilities
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Group Therapy: Creates peer support and reduces isolation
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Family Therapy: Supports caregivers and enhances the home environment
Long-Term Support & Relapse Prevention
Psychotic disorders are lifelong conditions that require ongoing care. We help clients maintain stability through:
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Regular psychiatric check-ins and medication reviews
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Lifestyle coaching (nutrition, sleep, stress management)
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Substance use education and prevention
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Crisis planning and early intervention for warning signs
Treatment Options for Psychotic Disorders
Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health in Maryland & D.C.
At Forbs Behavioral Health Services, LLC, we provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for children, teens, adults, and seniors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, our licensed providers are here to help — both in-person in Frederick, MD and via telehealth across Maryland and Washington, D.C. From psychiatric evaluations and medication management to individual therapy, we’re committed to delivering personalized care that fits your life.
Now accepting new patients — schedule your appointment today and start your path to healing.