This post was written by Caroline Braun, LCSW, LCAC, clinical programs manager, Parkview Behavioral Health Institute.
When pursuing mental health treatment, some may balk at the prospect of group therapy. Seeking treatment is hard, but in front of a group of others can be even more daunting. Despite these apprehensions and fears, studies show that group therapy is an incredibly effective treatment for the majority of mental health conditions.
In this post, we discuss how Parkview Behavioral Health Institute's Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Dialectical Behavior Treatment (DBT) program utilize group therapy to help patients overcome mental health challenges and how our newly renovated facility at 909 E. State Blvd. strengthens these services.
Why is group therapy effective?
Group therapy is a powerful intervention for growth and change. It can help foster a sense of community, which can promote feelings of belonging, acceptance and reassurance that they can feel better.
It's true impact resides in the opportunity to receive multiple perspectives, support, encouragement and feedback from others in a safe and structured environment. These interpersonal interactions can provide clients with the chance to deepen their level of self-awareness and learn how they connect and relate to others.
Here are some other benefits of group therapy:
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Unbiased support from peers
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Multiple perspectives from therapists and other professionals
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Corrective emotional experiences
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Opportunity to practice skills with other group members
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Incorporation of group-specific techniques like psychodrama and role plays
IOP and DBT aim to provide intensive services with less disruption to an individual's daily life, as opposed to partial hospitalization programs or inpatient care settings. Additionally, when a client is engaged in IOP, we can offer a fast track to connecting them with psychiatric medication services.
Who is a good candidate for DBT treatment?
The PBHI's Dialectical Behavior Treatment is the only outpatient DBT program recognized in Northern Indiana. This intensive therapy is for adolescents and adults who have been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder or for whom DBT is clinically indicated. People who seek DBT treatment may struggle with:
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thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts
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emotional dysregulation
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impulsivity
In DBT, patients receive a combination of one-on-one therapy and attend weekly group therapy.
Who is a good candidate for IOP treatment?
The PBHI's Intensive Outpatient Program supports individuals with a wide range of mental health needs, such as:
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trauma and PTSD
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personality disorders
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thought disorders
These programs can also help individuals develop essential coping skills that promote long-term wellness. Most new clients are appropriate for IOP treatment.
Requirements include one or more mental health diagnoses, some impairments in functioning, and insurance coverage. Parkview offers financial assistance programming, as some insurance providers do not reimburse for IOP services. Because many IOP patients are employed, group sessions are offered at various times of day.
What patients can expect from the new space
The renovated space is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, providing increased functionality through various multimedia options, as well as the ability to expand our virtual group offerings. Clients will have more options to participate in therapy services virtually if transportation barriers prevent them from attending in person three times a week.
The building features individual consultation rooms, group therapy rooms, and a quiet room for relaxation and decompression. The building's security features have also been improved to ensure a greater sense of personal safety.
We are always focused on the clinical quality of our IOP offerings and strive to best meet the needs of the populations in our care. We hope that this new space will help us increase access to services and enhance the client experience. We also expect that incorporating more technology will enhance the clinical quality of the group experience, as therapists will have more options for integrating various media resources into the group curriculum.
PBHI is committed to an individual's total health and wellness. This project aligns with this mission by enhancing the accessibility of services, making it easier for the community to engage with them while maintaining their other daily responsibilities.
Let us help
Getting help from Parkview Behavioral Health is easy. For an initial screening, call the HelpLine at 260-373-7500 or 800-284-8439, anytime, 24 hours a day. Experienced specialists are available to guide you to the appropriate level of care or resources for your situation.
