Admission

Upon admission, the individual’s history is reviewed, and immediate needs are assessed, such as the need for suicide precautions. Individuals who are able to do so, along with their family members, can assist by providing information on recent behavior, hospitalization, medication history, recent outpatient care, and insurance coverage.

Assessment Plan

The treatment team will regularly review the plan to assess the individual’s strengths and barriers, making adjustments as needed to meet the individual’s evolving needs. Family members and individuals should report the effects (and side effects) of medication and the overall progress of the treatment.

Treatment Planning

Following admission, the treatment planning team evaluates the individual and creates a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at stabilizing the individual for discharge. Family members and well-functioning individuals are encouraged to provide input on potential programs, request regular reviews of the treatment plan, and suggest any necessary revisions.

Discharge Planning

Before discharge, a discharge-planning meeting should be held by the staff. Individuals and family members (unless the individual objects) may be included in this meeting. The written discharge plan should address the individual’s current needs and goals, detailing the services to be provided and by whom. The plan should cover areas such as mental health services, case management, living arrangements, financial assistance, vocational training, transportation, and medication.

Several factors influence whether an individual is linked to community services upon discharge, including whether a case manager is assigned, the individual’s admission status (voluntary or involuntary), the severity of the issues, past use of the public mental health system, family involvement in the discharge planning, and the individual’s motivation. Ideally, individuals should have an appointment with a community mental health service within one week of discharge.

Outpatient Services

Outpatient services can be accessed directly by calling the agency to schedule an appointment. They will then arrange an intake appointment, though there may be a waiting period due to high demand.

The intake appointment involves completing necessary paperwork and arranging payment. For members of HMOs, a referral from a primary care physician may be required for service coverage.

The intake interview with a therapist typically lasts between one and one and a half hours. The therapist, who may come from any discipline, will ask detailed questions about the visit’s purpose and the individual’s medical history. Consent forms are signed during this session.

Depending on the problem’s nature and severity, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled. This could either continue the intake process or mark the beginning of treatment. Treatment options may include medication evaluation, individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, or marital counseling. It could involve weekly sessions or participation in a day program focusing on socialization, life skills, and possibly vocational or educational training. Treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs and the agency’s approach. Clients are encouraged to ask questions about their prescribed treatment at any time.

Terminating Treatment

Ideally, therapy ends when both the therapist and client agree that the client has met their goals. The therapist may suggest involvement in self-help groups, volunteer work, or other social activities to help maintain progress.

If therapy ends before the client is ready, or if the therapist must terminate the relationship due to work-related issues, the client might request a meeting with both the former and new therapist to discuss past progress and future goals.

If there is a disagreement about when to end treatment, it should be openly discussed. The therapist should develop a plan to support the client in daily life post-therapy. Most therapists conclude the therapeutic relationship by encouraging clients to return if needed, either for a brief visit or further therapy.

Self-Help and Professional Treatment

Self-help strategies empower individuals to actively manage their mental health and enhance wellbeing through personal efforts. This includes utilizing self-help books and online resources, participating in support groups, and practicing mindfulness and meditation. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and balanced nutrition also contributes to mental health. Additionally, journaling can help individuals process their emotions and reflect on their experiences.

Professional treatment provides specialized support from licensed mental health professionals and is crucial for addressing more complex mental health needs. This includes engaging in therapy modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Medication management by psychiatrists or primary care physicians, case management, and rehabilitation services further support individuals’ needs. Crisis intervention services offer immediate assistance during urgent situations. Combining self-help strategies with professional treatment provides a comprehensive approach to managing mental health and achieving sustained wellbeing.