The state of our mental health & wellness impacts all aspects of our day-to-day life and influences how we think, feel, and act. It also affects our decision-making processes, how we handle stress, and how we react to situations. When mental health symptoms occur, or we begin to feel a sense of hopelessness due to life situations, seeking counseling help can offer fresh perspectives and solutions.
In fact, mental health interventions like inpatient counseling are crucial for fostering individual well-being and restoring the ability to create a happy and satisfying life without relying on medications. By addressing mental health symptoms and SUD, inpatient interventions can prevent the escalation of such issues. Timely intervention empowers individuals to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, improving the effects of adjunctive therapies and recovery tools while in treatment and boosting chances of healthier relationships and improved productivity within the individual’s daily life.
Moreover, inpatient mental health support contributes to the reduction of the unfortunate stigma surrounding psychological well-being, encouraging open conversations and empathy within the treatment setting and beyond. As a component of a much larger picture, inpatient counseling not only aids in personal recovery but also begins strengthening communities, fostering a culture of understanding and support for those facing mental health and SUD challenges.
Inpatient counseling is a popular component of mental health therapy offered at Alternative to Meds Center, a holistic SUD treatment and mental health facility in Sedona, AZ. Like our other program components, inpatient counseling is centered around the individual. At Alternative to Meds Center, many different types of therapies are offered under the umbrella of inpatient counseling. They are all tailored to the individual, as part of a personalized, well-rounded treatment plan. Check this link for our published evidence regarding our success.
15 Years Experience by Professionals Who Understand Your Journey.
Inpatient counseling for mental health was developed specifically for individuals attending an inpatient treatment program and struggling with their mental health, whether due to trauma or recovery from addiction or medication usage. The purpose of inpatient counseling is to equip the individual with the tools and coping mechanisms to support them through low points of mental health. Whether the mental health symptoms have occurred due to a traumatic event or recovery from medication toxicity and SUD, counseling can help with the healing process.
Of course, both inpatient and outpatient counseling are therapy programs developed to offer the support and tools individuals need to reach their health and recovery goals. However, inpatient counseling offers more intensive care as individuals are already receiving round-the-clock treatment for mental health and SUD issues. Participating in a residential rehabilitation and therapy program offers individuals more opportunities to fully take advantage of the care they are receiving before they are exposed to the outside world.
Like many other therapies, inpatient counseling works over time and requires a commitment from both the individual and the counselor. This commitment is to actively participate in the recovery process and work to reach their goals. Inpatient mental health treatment is an important strategy to help clients reach their health and recovery goals here at Alternative to Meds Center.
Why Choose Alternative to Meds Center for Inpatient Counseling?
The inpatient counseling offered at Alternative to Meds Center is designed to treat the whole unique individual. This approach allows for each person to participate in treatment that is personalized for them and their health journey and goals. Our philosophy of care blends neurotransmitter rehabilitation with other holistic methods to help clients feel good naturally. This can only occur after a thorough individual assessment of each person and then assembling the best treatments for their needs.
A critical focus at ATMC is treatment without medication. For example, accumulated toxins in the body are often overlooked causes of symptoms and can result in misdiagnoses.8 Masking mental health symptoms with medication can cause far more harm than good, not only because it doesn’t provide the healing needed but because it can also create additional physical and mental health symptoms. Therefore, we focus our offerings on holistic adjunctive therapies that do not rely on medication. We believe that treating the whole person and taking a holistic approach to creating treatment plans is what allows our clients to finally address the root of their symptoms.
Inpatient Therapies
The team of mental health providers at Alternative to Meds Center works hard to provide the best care possible to each and every person who crosses our threshold. Their expertise in several therapeutic disciplines allows them to offer a variety of therapies to their patients. Within the inpatient counseling program, we offer multiple different services and therapies.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most widely used “talk” therapies for addiction because research has proven it to be one of the most effective. CBT is especially useful for improving self-efficacy (the confidence that one can control their own behavior) and helping individuals eliminate addiction.9 The aim of cognitive behavioral therapy is to help clients make connections between their thoughts and feelings and how they drive addictive behaviors. Through this understanding, clients can begin to make changes that impact recovery.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy is based on cognitive behavioral therapy, but shaped to help those individuals who experience extremely intense emotions. Through DBT, clients can learn to understand the relationship between intense negative emotions and harmful behaviors. Instead of engaging in harmful behaviors to mask these emotions, dialectical behavior therapy helps individuals find healthy ways to cope. Research has demonstrated that after engaging in dialectical behavior therapy, individuals were better able to tolerate stress, experienced improved mental health states and self-efficacy, and were less likely to use substances.10
Social Cognitive Theory
The social cognitive theory behind therapy focuses on how behavior can be driven by a number of things, both behavioral and cognitive. This can include environmental factors and the behavior of others in addition to personal experiences and emotions. By exploring the individual more holistically, a therapist can help a client understand that they are not a passive reflection of the things that happen to them and can foresee – and control – the eventual consequences of each behavior. Individuals participating in therapies based on social cognitive theory are not only less likely to experience relapse, they also experience improvements in self-efficacy.11
Choice Theory
Choice theory is the basis for reality therapy. This theory posits that although humans cannot control other people, much about their environment, or how they feel about any of it, they can control the choices they make to deal with each of these aspects. Thus, the best way to avoid negative consequences is to seek ways to control behavior. Choice theory is backed by years of data that states that most people who successfully reach recovery do so because they want to eliminate problems in their life, whether medical, psychological, or social.12
Reality Therapy
Similar to social cognitive theory, reality therapy recognizes that the behavior of human beings is ultimately a choice. Mental health symptoms, as a result, are not necessarily caused by an incurable mental health disorder but by unfulfilled needs. This therapy helps individuals understand that while they cannot control their thoughts or feelings, they can control how they respond to them. Reality therapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress in individuals with substance use disorder.13
Structural Family System Therapy
This therapeutic modality is based on structural family system theory, which places an intense focus on the interactions and relationships between family members. Therapists begin by helping family members improve their communication skills. Eventually, the therapist helps the family examine the social structure by which the family operates and make changes to any components that are negatively affecting communication and the overall relationships. With the integration of family system therapy into a treatment plan, clients are more likely to experience favorable treatment outcomes, lasting recovery, and better relationships; this therapy can also help reduce the impact of substance use disorder on family members.14
One-on-One Addiction Counseling
As the name suggests, one-on-one addiction counseling occurs on an individual basis (as opposed to group counseling) and focuses primarily on the factors that surround a person’s addiction. The above-listed therapeutic modalities may be used in addiction counseling depending on the client’s needs, with the intent to identify and address the root contributors to that individual’s relationship with a substance. Addiction counseling can also help the individual develop healthy coping skills to address the elements that drove addiction, and is especially effective when combined with therapies like CBT for co-occurring disorders like PTSD.15
Gestalt Equine-Assisted Therapy
While Gestalt therapy is centered around helping an individual focus on the present rather than dwelling on the past and obsessing over the future, Gestalt equine-assisted therapy takes this approach a step further. With the help of equine animals like horses, clients can explore the feelings that may have been masked by other feelings, worries, or stress. Developing a mutually trust-driven relationship with a horse can help an individual to process these emotions, improve emotional regulation, and even build confidence in their ability to develop mutual trust in their own human relationships.1617
Mindfulness Practices
Similar to Gestalt therapy, the purpose of mindfulness is to help individuals focus on the here and now. The intent is to help focus and accept the thoughts and feelings they are having in the moment and develop healthy ways to address those thoughts and feelings instead of avoiding them with substance use. Mindfulness practices can be put to use after recovery has begun when cravings, triggers, and other stressors occur.18
How Does Inpatient Therapy at Alternative to Meds Center Work?
Each provider works closely with their clients to develop practical strategies to achieve the mental health goals they want to reach. This expertise and attention of our staff providers is what makes Alternative to Meds Center the right choice for inpatient counseling. Our commitment to each unique individual patient makes us stand out among other inpatient treatment centers.
Our Holistic Approach
One of the core pillars of the Alternative to Meds Center treatment techniques and processes is taking a holistic approach to the treatment for the individual. The providers at ATMC take every aspect of the individual into account while creating treatment plans and during the entire recovery process. At ATMC, we help people become the best version of themselves through a journey of self-discovery, lifestyle choices, and new insights. An important aspect of our holistic approach to inpatient counseling and therapy is the rejection of the “Disease Model of Addiction.” The “Disease Model” is the idea that people struggling with addiction have a chronic, permanent brain disease and need to be prescribed medication, either long-term or for life, to change their behavior.7 We reject this idea and instead aim to help our clients heal without toxic medications.
Our Personalized Care and Treatment Plans
As mentioned, one of the most critical components of inpatient counseling is cognitive behavioral therapy. The umbrella of CBT has a variety of different therapies and techniques that can be personalized to fit each person’s needs. For example, for a person struggling with compulsions and/or obsessive behaviors, practicing mindfulness and choice therapy may help them control their negative urges.
That’s why there is no “one size fits all” treatment plan when struggling with mental health and addiction. Here at Alternative to Meds Center, we work to personalize each patient’s care plan to help them become the best version of themselves.
Inpatient Counseling FAQs:
What Is Inpatient Counseling, and How Does It Differ From Outpatient Counseling?
Inpatient counseling clients receive mental health services within a residential treatment program, whereas outpatient counseling clients go to a clinic or private office to receive their therapies but return home afterward. Inpatient counseling is more intensive and is designed for those who need more support. It is also readily available for people who need 24/7 support for medication toxicity or substance use disorders.
Who Might Benefit From Inpatient Counseling?
Inpatient counseling is often recommended for individuals experiencing severe mental health crises, acute psychiatric conditions, or those at risk of harming themselves or others. Within the context of SUD treatment, it is an essential component of holistic treatment and helps address underlying mental health symptoms that contribute to substance use. Inpatient counseling provides a structured and supportive environment for stabilization and treatment.
What Types of Mental Health Issues Are Addressed in Inpatient Counseling?
Inpatient counseling can address a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, acute anxiety disorders, and other conditions that require immediate intervention and close monitoring. Within the inpatient substance use treatment center, patients are often experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental health symptoms that may have contributed to substance use or resulted from acute toxicity.
How Long Does Inpatient Counseling Typically Last?
The duration of receiving inpatient counseling services varies from individual to individual and depends on the severity of their mental health struggles and what their health goals are. Some people can receive treatment for a matter of weeks and others for some months. The goal is always to stabilize the person and help them reach their personal goals. At Alternative to Meds Center, clients begin counseling at an appropriate point in their treatment plan, and continue to receive inpatient counseling throughout their stay.
What Therapeutic Modalities Are Commonly Used in Inpatient Counseling?
Inpatient counseling often incorporates a combination of modalities, including individual therapy, group therapy, structural family system theory, medication management and weaning, one-on-one addiction therapy, and other therapeutic interventions tailored to the specific needs of the individual. At Alternative to Meds Center, we conduct a thorough assessment and intensive lab testing to determine an individual treatment plan for each individual.
Is Family Involvement Encouraged in Inpatient Counseling?
Family involvement is often encouraged during inpatient counseling. When people have a strong support system in addition to their counseling services, it can help them have confidence that they will reach their health goals. The support of family members can play a crucial role in the individual’s recovery. After SUD treatment is complete, family therapy sessions and education about the individual’s condition might be a part of some treatment plans depending on the needs of the individual.
How Is Confidentiality Maintained in an Inpatient Counseling Setting?
While confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of counseling, there are certain limitations in an inpatient setting due to the need for collaboration among the treatment team of providers. However, efforts are made to share information only on a need-to-know basis to protect each individual’s privacy.
What Happens After Inpatient Counseling?
After inpatient counseling, individuals often transition to outpatient care for ongoing treatment and support. This may involve regular therapy sessions and other interventions aimed at maintaining mental health and preventing relapse. The inpatient counseling services at Alternative to Meds Center are structured to help people stay in recovery and can facilitate continuing their continuing treatment outside the health center.
Can Individuals Leave the Inpatient Facility During Treatment?
The ability to leave the inpatient facility during treatment varies depending on the individual’s condition and guidelines created by the provider. In some cases, supervised outings may be allowed, while in others, individuals may need to remain on-site for the duration of their treatment. During the duration of the treatment plan, providers will work with individuals to see what will best benefit them throughout their recovery process.
What Types of Services Does Alternative to Meds Center Offer?
Here at ATMC, we offer a wide variety of mental health recovery and rehabilitation services. Some examples include:
How Can Someone Access Inpatient Counseling Services?
Anyone who has experienced a substance use disorder or medication toxicity can access inpatient counseling services at Alternative to Meds Center. Sometimes, a referral can be used to access our services, but most times, it is not necessary. Simply contact us to learn more about how we can help you achieve your health goals.
Take the First Step to Recovery Today
We have heard from previous and current clients that seeking out mental health help was the best decision they made for themselves. Taking charge of their mental health journey and working towards reaching their health goals gave them back the power in their relationship with their mental health. That feeling of hopelessness is sometimes the most dangerous part of SUD and mental health struggles, but it’s important to know that recovery is possible and you do not have to suffer.
Reaching out for help can be the hardest step to take in your SUD and mental health journey. If you or a loved one is struggling and ready to take the step towards recovery, Alternative to Meds Center is here to help. Contact our team to learn more about how our inpatient counseling and personalized recovery services can help you become the best version of yourself.
Reach out to us today to get more information and understand how we can assist you or a loved one.
4. Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Rockville, MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. 2016.
5. Merikangas KR, He J, Burstein M, et al. Lifetime Prevalence of Mental Disorders in US Adolescents: Results from the National Comorbidity Study-Adolescent Supplement (NCS-A). Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 2010;49(10):980-989. doi:10.1016/j.jaac.2010.05.017.
6. Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Rockville, MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. 2016.
7. MacKillop J. Is Addiction Really a Chronic Relapsing Disorder?: Commentary on Kelly et al. “How Many Recovery Attempts Does It Take to Successfully Resolve an Alcohol or Drug Problem? Estimates and Correlates From a National Study of Recovering U.S. Adults”. Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 2020 Jan;44(1):41-44. doi: 10.1111/acer.14246. Epub 2019 Dec 24. PMID: 31758562; PMCID: PMC7739524.
18. Garland, E. L., & Howard, M. O. (2018). Mindfulness-based treatment of addiction: current state of the field and envisioning the next wave of research. Addiction science & clinical practice, 13(1), 1-14.
This content has been reviewed and approved by a licensed physician.
Dr. Samuel Lee
Dr. Samuel Lee is a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in a spiritually-based mental health discipline and integrative approaches. He graduated with an MD at Loma Linda University School of Medicine and did a residency in psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. He has also been an inpatient adult psychiatrist at Kaweah Delta Mental Health Hospital and the primary attending geriatric psychiatrist at the Auerbach Inpatient Psychiatric Jewish Home Hospital. In addition, he served as the general adult outpatient psychiatrist at Kaiser Permanente. He is board-certified in psychiatry and neurology and has a B.A. Magna Cum Laude in Religion from Pacific Union College. His specialty is in natural healing techniques that promote the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
Lyle Murphy is the founder of the Alternative to Meds Center, a licensed residential program that helps people overcome dependence on psychiatric medication and addiction issues using holistic and psychotherapeutic methods.
Medical Disclaimer: Nothing on this Website is intended to be taken as medical advice. The information provided on the website is intended to encourage, not replace, direct patient-health professional relationships. Always consult with your doctor before altering your medications. Adding nutritional supplements may alter the effect of medication. Any medication changes should be done only after proper evaluation and under medical supervision.
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