Millions of people in the United States live with a mental health condition that impacts their daily lives. Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and others respond to treatment. Treatment programs offer therapies and support to help people manage their symptoms and move forward.
People have different mental health treatment needs. There are several levels of care that provide different treatment options to address each person’s unique needs.
Partial care programs are an intensive level of outpatient treatment for mental health disorders.
This article will explore some of the benefits of a partial care program for mental health. You will learn:
- What to expect in a partial care program
- Five benefits of a mental health PCP
- Who might benefit from a partial care program
- How to determine which level of care is right for you
- Where to find comprehensive mental health treatment
If you or someone you love needs treatment or support on their substance abuse or mental health journey, you are not alone. Contact the New Jersey Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is a Mental Health Partial Care Program (PCP)?
A partial care program (also known as a day treatment program) is an intensive, outpatient level of mental health care. A partial program provides a structured environment and intensive treatment for people with significant treatment needs.
A partial care treatment plan is similar to the schedule of inpatient care. Unlike inpatient treatment, people in a PC can return home in the evening. This allows people to stay connected to work, family, and other social support systems.
PCPs offer a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies, including:
- Assessments and screenings
- Medical care and medication management
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, group, and family therapy sessions
- Coping skills
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies, like mindfulness, yoga, acupuncture, exercise, creative therapies, and more
People may also engage in community programs, including 12-step meetings, sober living, and support groups.
People in a partial care program typically attend treatment sessions all or most days a week. They may spend 25 to 30 hours or more engaging in treatment every week.
5 Benefits of a Partial Care Program For Mental Health
Partial care programs provide comprehensive, intensive treatment that can help people manage their symptoms effectively. Here are five of the most significant benefits of a mental health partial program.
1. Holistic treatment
Partial care programs offer intensive, holistic treatment. Medical and mental health professionals provide continuous assessments, treatment, and support. This level of care can allow people to identify and address the complex emotional, physical, and behavioral aspects of their symptoms.
2. Intensive treatment
A partial care program is the most intensive level of outpatient care. Participants may spend 30 hours or more engaging in medical care, therapies, education, and holistic practices to support overall well-being. This high level of support can lead to better symptom management and significant improvements in health and well-being.
3. Accountability
A partial care program typically requires participants to attend treatment sessions most or all days of the week. People make connections with staff and other participants, forming a supportive community. This creates accountability that can encourage progress.
4. Medical care
Partial programs use a holistic approach to mental health treatment. Instead of simply addressing the psychological symptoms of mental health conditions, partial care programs provide medical assessments, screenings, and treatments. This comprehensive care can identify and address the roots of mental health conditions.
5. Aftercare planning
It may not be possible to “cure” a chronic mental health condition. However, long-term symptom management is possible. During a partial care program, people begin to create an aftercare plan that might include:
- Support groups
- Individual therapies
- Medical care
- Holistic therapies
- Other forms of treatment
An aftercare plan ensures people can continue to manage symptoms after treatment. It also provides resources people can lean on in a crisis.
Contact the New Jersey Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about the benefits of partial care programs.
Who Benefits from a Partial Care Program?
Generally, a partial care program is appropriate for people who:
- Do not require round-the-clock supervision or support to manage mental health symptoms
- Have a safe, stable living environment
- Are motivated to participate in treatment
- Require intensive support to manage a mental health condition
Before starting a treatment program, a mental health or medical professional will assess a person’s needs. This mental health assessment may include:
- Questions about symptoms and previous mental health diagnosis
- A complete medical history
- Family history of mental health conditions
- Lab testing
- A physical exam
This assessment will help treatment professionals determine which level of care is appropriate for each person’s needs.
Find Treatment Now
If you or a loved one needs treatment to manage a mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the New Jersey Behavioral Health specialists to explore our programs or schedule an intake appointment.