By: Ava
April 30, 2024

What Are the Benefits of Mental Health Outpatient Treatment?

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For many people who need mental health treatment, intensive residential programs are the gold standard. With residential treatment, clients reside in the facility itself while receiving the intense evidence-based treatment and around-the-clock care they need. While very effective, what happens to those who can’t commit to time away from work and family to attend treatment? What if people can’t afford the high price tag associated with residential mental health treatment?

Fortunately, mental health outpatient treatment is an excellent alternative.

Our Southern California outpatient mental health programs are extensively tested and proven effective in helping you overcome mental illness. Our experienced team of professionals works with you to get the tools you need to become happy and healthy in the long term.

Call MCR toll-free today and get on the road to recovery.

What is Mental Health Outpatient Treatment?

So, let’s get a handle on mental health outpatient treatment and its structure. In simple terms, clients who undergo outpatient mental health treatment receive intensive, evidence-based programs and support while being able to live at home and uphold their work and family obligations. People in these programs attend treatment during the day or nighttime hours spent on their schedule. The core of every mental health outpatient treatment program consists of the following:

  • Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) done in an individual, group, or family setting
  • Medication management (if needed)
  • 12-step or other support group help
  • Psychoeducation (educating the client on their condition and ways they can manage their condition)
  • Life and coping skills training
  • Psychiatric care

In general, clients in outpatient treatment attend programming 2-3 days per week, with each session lasting approximately 2-3 hours. For more severe cases, patients may be directed to a partial hospitalization program (PHP) to receive treatment at a local hospital or psychiatric care facility. In a PHP, clients attend programming 4-5 days a week on average, each lasting about 4-5 hours. 

Outpatient mental health treatment programs are ideal for those with mild to moderate issues. This type of treatment is a good fit for those who are able to live independently and are motivated to participate, work toward improvement, and verbally share their thoughts. It’s also important that clients are comfortable in a group setting and are willing to learn and apply the skills they learn in therapy.

What Are The Benefits Of Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Programs?

Those attending an outpatient mental health treatment program receive tremendous benefits. The most obvious benefit of this form of treatment is the client is able to live at home where they receive the love and support from family and friends. Another advantage of outpatient mental health treatment is the cost. Outpatient treatment programs are less expensive than residential programs and many insurance carriers cover outpatient treatment.

Outpatient mental health programs focus on group meetings and support. Amongst peers who are experiencing the same issues, clients feel a sense of belonging and empowerment. Additionally, many outpatient programs are “step-down” programs, meaning the frequency and durations of sessions decrease as the client’s condition improves. Outpatient programs are also versatile and can be used as a “step-down” program from residential treatment or a ” step-up” program if a client’s condition worsens during their stay.

MCR Has Quality Outpatient Treatment Programs That Help You Heal

Are you looking for an outpatient mental health program that gives you the tools and support you need? Multi Concept Recovery is Southern California’s premier treatment facility. We offer evidence-based programs specifically tailored for adults, teens, and college students. With multiple levels of care, expert support, and a welcoming atmosphere, you will feel safe, confident, and empowered to address and overcome your mental health issues. 

Call us toll-free right now and take back control of your life.