Thinking aloud

Maria Garcia, clinical director at All Points North London

Interview: Ellie Costigan

Addiction appears hand in hand with poor mental health. There are different theories as to why, but there is evidence to show that there are high rates of comorbid substance use disorders and anxiety disorders, as well as depression, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, psychotic illness, borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder.

A thorough assessment is required to ascertain whether the addiction or the mental health disorder should be addressed first. Generally, if the addiction is severe, this should be treated first, as otherwise it will continue to be a block to any progress and recovery on the general mental health side of things.

By bringing so many aspects of treatment under one roof, APN reaches across imaginary boundaries and healthcare silos to offer the full continuum of care – anytime, anywhere – ensuring long-term success for clients.

When we first opened All Points North in the US, the majority of our clients were flying in from the UK, Europe and the Middle East, which demonstrated a need for more accessible mental health in those parts of the world. APN London will provide continuity and consistency of outpatient care for UK patients returning from their treatment at the APN Lodge in Colorado.

Harley Street is a hub for the UK’s behavioural health sector, and we are pleased to call London our first UK home. The new clinic is set within a beautiful Georgian building on Wimpole Street, split across several floors, which has been renovated to accommodate the comprehensive, multidimensional mental health services we offer, for mind, body and soul. It’s estimated that 40-60% of individuals relapse while in recovery. At APN, we recognise that we cannot produce better outcomes by trying the same tired old techniques. We believe that by adopting new technologies and emerging evidence-based treatments without fear, the industry can better support and treat people throughout their journey to lasting health.

We shepherd people through the entire treatment process: from the very first call to the contact centre, where a real person – likely someone who’s in recovery themselves – will introduce you to a robust social club through which you can make connections with others who are pursuing good mind and body health.

At All Points North, we support a person through their whole journey. People are often at their most vulnerable when they come to see us, so we encourage our staff to take an iterative approach to find the right solution. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, we offer integrated care and custom treatment plans to help everyone find their own ‘true north’.

All Points North apn.com