Sometimes things can get to be more than you can handle. I know this from my own personal experience. I suffered a great loss and after a year of trying to cope with that loss on my own, I knew that it was time for me to reach out for some help. I was missing work, didn't want to do much of anything and just didn't feel like myself. I started seeing a counselor each week, and it has helped. If you are struggling to recover after a loss, this blog may be able to help you find the help you need to get past it.
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can have devastating effects on an individual'
Trauma can be a life-changing experience for anyone, especially for a child. Children are particularly vu
In today's digital era, technology has made significant advancements in various fields, including healthc
An intensive outpatient therapy program can help you tackle difficult mental health concerns and life iss
Coaches are experts who help individuals achieve their goals. Many people think of coaches in the context
An intensive outpatient therapy program can help you tackle difficult mental health concerns and life issues. Such a program is only ideal for a certain set of people, though. If you want to explore intensive outpatient therapy, here is how you can determine if you'll be a good candidate.
Crisis Acuteness
Outpatient programs work best for individuals who aren't in the midst of extreme crises. Someone who's having an active episode of suicidal ideation or self-harm should pursue an inpatient option at least initially. They might consider an intensive outpatient counseling program once they and their therapists agree the situation is under control.
Similar concerns may exist if someone is experiencing poorly-managed dementia, manic swings, drug overdoses, or psychotic episodes. Also, you might consider inpatient care if you're dealing with a medical condition that may affect your ability to participate in therapy. Someone who has a heart problem, for example, may benefit from a more managed environment.
An intensive outpatient counseling program typically works best for people whose medical and mental health is stable. You should be confident that you won't have trouble making appointments. Also, a doctor should be confident that there won't be an incident if the patient is in an unmonitored setting.
Stability and Support
Ideally, a patient will have sufficient stability and support to handle outpatient sessions. They should have a place they're confident they'll be able to stay for the duration of their time in therapy. Likewise, they should have reliable transportation. This includes a backup option if their primary means of transport is unavailable, such as their car going into the shop.
Their environment should offer support, too. Many people experiencing mental health crises have aggravating factors in their lives. There may be close friends and family members who enable or trigger negative episodes. Outpatient programs work best when these factors aren't present.
Availability
The intensive component of the program also matters. Work and school schedules, for example, need to be compatible with an intensive approach. Family demands can also intervene. You want to be able to carve out several hours a day for several days a week. Fortunately, program operators often can work with clients' schedules to maximize the available time for therapy sessions.
Availability also extends to the person's commitment to participate. Intensive programs require a degree of self-direction to keep a schedule. The benefits of intensive outpatient care accrue the most for people who can participate in the process without outside direction. Learn more about if an intensive outpatient therapy program is right for you by contacting a nearby professional.
Share