By Sarah Allen Benton, MS, LMHC, LPC, AADC
“Where do we begin?” This is the question that families ask most frequently when they have a loved one struggling with any diagnosis requiring mental health or behavioral health treatment. Wondering about what to do becomes an additional stress that your family does not need during a difficult time.
Unfortunately, the healthcare system has not set up a one-size-fits-all standardized treatment plan or continuum of care for individuals seeking these kinds of treatment, especially when substance use disorders or co-occurring disorders complicate treatment plans. Each individual is unique in their needs and circumstances, so treatment must be customized to the individual too. There are many paths that one can take, as well as endless options of treatment programs and levels of care.
When those seeking treatment ask friends or others in recovery what they should do, they may receive a variety of responses and opinions. This, in turn, may add to the stress of the situation. The result can lead individuals not to receive the best quality care available, simply because they are not aware of their options or they are not being connected with programs that are the best fit for their needs. Additionally, once an individual with a diagnosis is receiving immediate treatment, families may be confused as to what type of ongoing care they should be receiving.
Primary Care Physicians may even be unsure where to direct clients when they ask for mental health or dual diagnosis treatment and support. Waterview’s programs are ideal for physicians to refer to because they support the client and family in a comprehensive way with wrap-around services for all of their needs. Transitional care after discharge from a hospital setting, or Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are available for mental health or behavioral health treatment when the mental health disorder or behavioral health disorder is a primary diagnosis. This is a unique service because oftentimes these types of programs are geared towards addiction and substance use disorders (SUD) -which are not quite as appropriate if a client isn’t dealing with a SUD…
Healthcare professionals are well aware that there are gaps in the treatment system, and could greatly benefit from the resources made available by Waterview Behavioral Health. We offer a comprehensive treatment program that guides individuals with a variety of disorders and their families from the beginning to the end of the treatment process. This treatment model is also flexible in allowing clients and their families to work around their schedules, continue to work or attend school as well as address mental or behavioral issues while living in their home environment. Your treatment plan will be set up to integrate therapy, psychiatric needs, family education, family systems therapy and community resources.
Due to limited availability of similar programs, we are very optimistic about the benefits that can be made available to those seeking mental health support and behavioral health support from this type of program within our community. We encourage you to reach out for more information as it applies to you and your family’s situation. Our initial treatment consultations are an opportunity to explore your unique circumstances to craft a treatment plan geared towards helping you in the best way possible. Connect with us today to find out more!