Mental Health Clinic Day Treatment

A mental health clinic day treatment program offers a comprehensive option for mentally ill patients who need more structure, intensity, and support in dealing with their mental illness.

Function

• Patients meet at least four hours a day for counseling.

  The Nebraska state guideline is representative of all state standards for mental health clinic day treatment. It is recommended for "individuals with psychiatric disorders who are not able to function full time in a normal school, work, or home environment."

Features

• A psychiatrist coordinates patient care in a day treatment program.

  The U.S. National Mental Health Center states that day treatment should last at least four hours a day and include "special education, counseling, parent training, vocational training, skill building, crisis intervention, and recreational therapy." A psychiatrist coordinates the team.

Staff

• Mental health day treatment staff includes a variety of mental health disciplines.

  The staff for a day treatment program can include a psychiatrist, social worker, psychiatric nurse, and nurse's aides or counselors with psychiatry training, in addition to occupational, art, vocational, and recreational therapists. Teachers are on staff if patients are under 18 years old.

Time Frame

• Each patient has an individual treatment plan.

  Every patient who participates in a day treatment program has an individual treatment plan with specific treatment goals. The length of treatment is determined by staff recommendations based on when those goals are achieved.

Cost Considerations

• Costs for mental health day treatment can vary.

  Medicare Part B covers some costs for day treatment coverage if the program meets Medicare guidelines. Medicaid coverage varies by state with financial eligibility requirements. Consult your clinic to determine your eligibility. Review your insurance policy to find out your mental health coverage.