Practice Approach and Expectations of Treatment (s) and Outcomes Statement
Mental health is unique and complex. Each diagnosis includes multiple symptoms, many of which overlap with other mental health diagnoses and the underlying cause for disorders is often due to multiple factors. For these reasons our practice focuses on an integrative approach which acknowledges that the mind and body are connected and that mental health disorders are a result of disruption in multiple body systems. This approach has an emphasis on lifestyle such as diet, physical health, environment, beliefs, behaviors, and spirituality as well as medications, only when needed, in order to achieve optimal functioning.
Now that we have informed you of our treatment approach, another important aspect of care is establishing realistic expectations of treatment(s) and outcomes. We have outlined below our expectations of clients as well as what you can expect from your treatment here at Psychiatric Wellness.
1. The field of Psychiatry is not a one size fits all approach. There are no quick fixes and most interventions and medications take a minimum of 1 month before we can begin evaluating for effectiveness.
2. While we can help decrease distress, provide support and resources, foster resilience, and teach healthy coping skills, we cannot change your life circumstances.
3. For some, optimal functioning may not be 100% symptom free.
4. Life stressors still occur, and it is normal and healthy to have emotional responses to stressful situations. Acute and temporary stress does not always require medication adjustments.
5. Willingness to change, in the form of lifestyle or outlook, is required in order to be successful; medication alone is often not sufficient to reach optimal functioning and wellbeing.
6. Providers and therapists provide tools in the form of medications, education, therapeutic techniques, advice, coping skills, and other forms. There is a level of accountability on your part, as the client, to communicate with providers and therapists and identify which tools you feel comfortable utilizing to create a mutually agreed upon treatment plan.
7. In between appointments, it is expected that you will follow the plan and utilize the tools you are given. If the plan is too difficult or not reasonable, your provider or therapist will work with you to make appropriate adjustments. We do not require perfection and understand real change takes time. Do not be afraid or ashamed to tell us if you are having difficulty with the current plan. Our goal is your success and we understand treatment plans need to be individualized.
8. While we try our best to identify the best approach on the first try, it often takes trials and adjustments over a period of time to find the most effective treatment plan. Do not be discouraged by this, the journey to emotional and mental health wellbeing is different for everyone and you do not have to do it alone. Psychiatric Wellness is dedicated to guiding you through this journey.
9. The most important aspect of treatment is patience; patience with yourself and your healthcare team.
By moving forward with your paperwork and completing this document, you will be indicating that you have read and understand the above practice approach and expectations of treatment(s) and outcomes statement.