Use these 8 helpful tips to assure you are getting the most of Outpatient Therapy

1.  Keep your appointments as scheduled whenever possible.
2. Reschedule if needed with 24-hour notice:  Missed appointments impact on you, your counselor, those who provider transportation and other clients who may have needed an appointment. When clients miss several appointments it is within the counselor’s discretion of whether or not to reschedule, and it is possible you might be scheduled at a different time, frequency, or discharged from services.  Your counselor will discuss this with you if it should become a concern.
3. Often counselors will assign homework for you to build and practice new skills and to help you reach your identified goals.  As with any new skill, practice is of importance to be able to use new skills and create healthier habits.  Often it is those skills we feel the most skeptical of that can be of most benefit.
4. Keep your counselor informed of any other providers you are working with as well as changes in your symptoms or situation.
5. Communication is key.  Counselors may check in with parents or guardians to provide the best quality care.
6. Communication among providers can improve your outcome; sign releases to allow this coordination of care when you feel it will be of benefit.  Your counselor may ask you to sign a release if they feel it is a benefit to you.  You have the right to accept or refuse this.
7. Many clinicians will begin therapy weekly and then space appointments as needed and determined by the therapist and client.  If you have a specific need to do something different please discuss this with your counselor.
8. Actively participate in the service planning progress as goals are being developed and evaluated. You are the expert in what you want to accomplish as a result of counseling.

Posted on January 22, 2014by Author Katie Orffin Categories Tips for Healthy Living