Realizing you need mental health support is an important step, but finding the right treatment can be challenging. Work, school, and family responsibilities can quickly rule out the option of inpatient care, as it requires you to put everything on hold. Outpatient programs can be a helpful alternative, allowing you to get the help you need while sticking to your usual routines.
In this article, we’ll break down:
- What outpatient mental health treatment is
- Who should consider outpatient mental health treatment
- What to expect during outpatient mental health treatment in NJ
- Where to find the right treatment for you
If you or a loved one is considering outpatient mental health treatment in New Jersey, you may be feeling overwhelmed by all the options. The team at Renewed Light can answer your questions, verify insurance coverage, and go over the different treatment programs until you find one that’s right for you. Contact us at any time to learn more.
What Is an Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Program?
Outpatient mental health treatment is a flexible alternative to inpatient care. Instead of staying overnight at a facility, these programs let you continue your life as normal while you receive mental health treatment. However, you’ll still need to make the time for support group meetings, doctor’s appointments, and sessions with therapists or psychiatrists.
Outpatient programs can address a variety of mental health conditions, along with co-occurring disorders like drug or alcohol addiction. These programs can be online (known as telehealth), or in person, depending on your needs, schedule, and insurance coverage.
There are two main types of outpatient care, which include:
- Standard – These are structured according to symptom severity and individual needs, operating much like a typical doctor’s appointment.
- Intensive or Partial Hospitalization – These programs tend to be more demanding, requiring the person to attend regular hours-long sessions or even stay in the hospital occasionally.
Working with a team of therapists, doctors, and other qualified staff can help you determine the right program for your lifestyle and needs.
Who Can Benefit From Outpatient Mental Health Treatment?
People who need mental health support but don’t require 24/7 supervision could benefit from an outpatient program. This type of treatment works well for those who have mild to moderate symptoms of mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, or PTSD, but can still handle their day-to-day responsibilities.
Some people may turn to outpatient programs after completing inpatient treatment, finding that the extra support helps them adjust back to everyday life. Those who have a strong support system, such as from family or friends, may find that an outpatient program gives them the help they need to continue healing. Additionally, those who want to keep working, going to school, or taking care of their family often appreciate the flexibility of these programs.
What to Expect During Outpatient Mental Health Treatment in New Jersey
Every outpatient mental health treatment program is unique, but most tend to include similar components. These include:
1. Initial Assessment
Before you start treatment, you’ll meet with a mental health provider for an in-depth evaluation. During this meeting, you’ll discuss things like:
- Your mental health history
- Your symptoms and their severity
- Any relevant triggers or stressors
- Family history of mental illness
- Potential underlying health concerns
- Past treatments and outcomes
- Your goals for recovery
From there, the staff can create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs, preferences, and goals.
2. Therapy Sessions
One of the most important parts of outpatient programs are the therapy sessions, which may be offered in individual, family, or group settings. Some of the most common evidence-based therapies provided in treatment include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Allows you to recognize your negative thoughts and change them to be more productive.
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): Reduces the anxiety you’re experiencing by gradually exposing you to your fears in a safe, controlled environment.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): Teaches you skills for managing intense emotions, improving your relationships, and controlling distress.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Helps you process and heal from traumatic memories.
Some programs may also incorporate lessons on mindfulness, coping skills, and other stress management techniques to promote overall wellness.
3. Medication Management
If the staff determines that medication can help manage your symptoms, they will help you schedule regular check-ins with a psychiatrist. Your provider will then monitor your progress, adjust your dosage as needed, address side effects, and offer alternative options if a medication isn’t working. Medication works best alongside therapy, so your therapist and psychiatrist may collaborate on your treatment plan.
4. Aftercare Planning
Outpatient treatment programs generally run for a set amount of time, which is determined by the individual’s specific needs and progress. As you near the end of treatment, your providers will work with you to develop an aftercare plan, which will help support your long-term recovery. Some components of this plan might include:
- Support groups (NAMI, AA, NA, DBT skills groups, MHA, etc.)
- Nutrition, exercise, sleep, or other wellness recommendations
- Coping skills to manage life’s stressors
- Relapse prevention strategies
- Resources for extra support
For many people, an aftercare plan ensures that they have all the tools they need to maintain their progress and continue improving their mental health.
Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health With Outpatient Treatment in New Jersey
Getting help for your mental health doesn’t have to mean neglecting everything else in your life. Renewed Light specializes in outpatient mental health treatment in New Jersey and can help guide you toward the right program for you or your loved one.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of outpatient therapy or have questions about insurance coverage, we’re available to provide answers and ease your concerns. Reach out today to see how we can assist you in your healing journey.
Resources:
- https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support/learn-about-treatment/types-of-treatment
- https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/continuing-education/training-registration/EBP-mental-health/evidence-based-practices/ebp-interventions.html
- https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/medication-or-therapy
- https://screening.mhanational.org/content/support-groups/?layout=mhats,actions_j
