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 treatment, behavioral health treatment, or dual diagnosis 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 (SUD) or co-occurring mental health 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 mental health programs, behavioral health services, and levels of care.
For individuals exploring treatment options, Waterview Behavioral Health also provides specialized support for dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders treatment and personalized care plans designed around each client’s unique needs.
Understanding Mental Health Treatment Options 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.
Learning more about the mental health admissions process can help families better understand what to expect when beginning treatment and how to access the right level of care.
How Primary Care Physicians Can Support Mental Health Referrals
Primary Care Physicians may even be unsure where to direct clients when they ask for mental health support, behavioral health services, 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.
Clients seeking structured support while maintaining work, school, or family responsibilities may benefit from Waterview’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) services.
Comprehensive Behavioral Health Services for Individuals and Families
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.
Benefits of Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) for Mental Health Treatment
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, behavioral health treatment, and family-centered care 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.
Contact Waterview Behavioral Health for Mental Health Support
Connect with us today to find out more about our mental health programs, behavioral health services, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and personalized treatment options for individuals and families.
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Get Help Now!Frequently Asked Questions
Mental health treatment primarily focuses on emotional, psychological, and psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Behavioral health treatment addresses behaviors that impact overall well-being, including substance use disorders, eating disorders, and unhealthy coping patterns. Many treatment programs address both simultaneously through integrated care.
An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) may be appropriate if your loved one needs structured support but does not require 24/7 inpatient care. IOPs can help individuals manage mental health symptoms while continuing work, school, or family responsibilities. Learn more about what to expect in an IOP program.
Co-occurring disorders refer to individuals experiencing both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. Effective treatment typically includes integrated therapy, psychiatric support, and recovery services designed to address both conditions together.
Yes. Family involvement is often a critical component of long-term recovery and mental wellness. Many behavioral health programs include family education, family systems therapy, and support resources to help improve communication and healing within the family unit.
The length of treatment varies depending on the individual’s diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and personal goals. Some individuals may benefit from short-term therapy or outpatient treatment, while others may require ongoing support through IOP, therapy, medication management, or aftercare planning.