Formal mental health treatment is generally available in two distinct formats: inpatient treatment options and outpatient treatment options. The most effective treatment structure is variable, as it will depend on the nuanced needs of the individual. Enlisting the help of a mental health professional can be beneficial as they can recommend which type may best accommodate an individual’s needs.
Inpatient Care
A residential treatment center (RTC), sometimes called a rehab, is a live-in health care option where individuals in need of intensive mental health treatment are required to reside for the duration of the program. The residents attending an inpatient mental health treatment program will work with a team of doctors and mental health professionals who provide counseling services, 24-hour support, supervised medication administration, and a stable environment for recovery. To ensure all nuanced needs are met, a tailored treatment plan will be developed for each resident. Mental health treatment plans typically include one or more psychotherapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), expressive arts therapy (e.g., play therapy, art therapy, music therapy, drama therapy, sand therapy, etc.), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), interpersonal therapy (IPT), motivational interviewing (MI), and more. Inpatient treatment programs emphasize the importance of developing and practicing healthy daily habits including following a daily schedule, implementing daily relaxation techniques, regular exercise, nutritious diets, and obtaining ample nightly sleep.
Outpatient Care
Outpatient treatment programs are structured in a way that enables a participant to continue to reside at home while simultaneously attending treatment. They can be an excellent option for individuals that are unable to reside away from home for any length of time. For people who have other obligations (e.g., school, work, family/ personal…etc.), an outpatient treatment program will usually work with one’s schedule to help accommodate outside commitments. Although the specific requirements of each outpatient treatment program will differ, a participant will be expected to attend a certain number of program hours, daily. Much like inpatient treatment programs, many outpatient programs will offer customized treatment plans for each of its participants. They are also equipped with clinicians that can deliver an array of therapeutic modalities, depending on the needs of the individual. Although outpatient treatment programs will encourage its participants to integrate healthy daily practices (i.e., nutritious diets, ample sleep, regular exercise, etc.), this aspect of recovery is less emphasized in outpatient programs. Outpatient treatment programs provide a safe and supportive environment to learn and practice the fundamental skills needed for long-term recovery.
Further Information and Support
For most of us, life can be very stressful, leading us to feel emotionally charged, which can cause anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and getting stuck in a cycle of being burdened with negative thoughts. Navigating through the challenges and emotional turmoil of life can be overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. Engage Treatment is a Joint Commission Accredited professional psychological practice. We specialize in treating children, teens, and young adults struggling with depression and anxiety through community-focused treatment plans that incorporate a carefully selected combination of therapeutic interventions. Our compassionate, multidisciplinary practitioners are devoted to providing the highest quality of care that helps ignite positive change and enables clients to reach optimal health and well-being. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are happy to answer questions and provide you with any additional information. Feel free to call us at 805-497-0605 or email us at [email protected]. You are also welcomed to get in touch by filling out our contact form. We look forward to connecting and having the opportunity to discuss how we might best be able to support you.