What Are the Different Types of Mental Health Counseling Services?

Have you ever felt overwhelmed, anxious, sad, depressed, or lost? Well, you are not alone.

Many people suffer from mental health issues. 1 in every 4 American adults experiences a mental disorder at some point in his life.

But do not fret! Treatment is becoming more and more accessible than ever. Mental health counseling is also less expensive and more personalized than in the past.

Not sure if you need counseling? Don’t worry. We got you!

Read below to learn about the different types of mental health counseling services.

Inpatient and Outpatient Mental Health Counseling Services

Inpatient mental services offer more intensive treatment for patients with mental illness. They’ve got to stay in the hospital or other facility where they could get 24-hour care.

The treatment could last a few days, weeks, or even months. That is why it can be a little costly. It will help if you choose therapists that accept Kaiser Permanente to reduce expenses.

Patients usually receive a combination of individual, group, and family counseling. To recover from drinking problems, alcoholics need this type of service.

Meanwhile, outpatient services are for people who do not need to stay in a hospital or facility. They can see a mental health counselor for a few hours each week. They can live at home or wherever they like, then go to the office for appointments.

That makes it less expensive. The patient is also more comfortable because of the familiar environment.

Some counselors may also provide online or telephone counseling services.

Inpatient and outpatient services are both effective for treating mental illness. Choose the most appropriate that would cater to your needs and preferences.

Partial Hospitalization Program

A systematic mental health and addiction therapy program known as a partial hospitalization program (PHP) allows individuals to engage in activities during the day and return home at night. Inpatient or residential treatment centers offer these programs.

PHPs give clients thoroughly structured care while letting them go about their daily activities. Because they don’t call for an overnight stay, they are sometimes known as a day or intensive outpatient programs (IOPs).

One-On-One and Group Counseling

One-on-one or individual counseling is a common type of mental health counseling service. Counselors work with clients to help them address personal issues.

They also help in setting goals and working through problems. Plus, they give education on stress management and healthy coping mechanisms.

This type of counseling allows a personal conversation between the counselor and client. It can be beneficial in building trust and rapport. It also helps explore sensitive topics or issues that may be difficult to discuss in a group setting.

Group counseling involves several people coming together to share their experiences and feelings. Topics discussed are issues or problems of each patient.

It can be helpful because it allows people to hear different perspectives. Patients learn from each other.

People also feel less alone because of this supportive environment. They can receive feedback and encouragement from others without feeling judged.

Short-Term and Long-Term Services

Short-term mental health services are helpful for those who deal with specific issues. These services can provide support and guidance during a difficult time.

One example of a short-term mental health counseling service is grief counseling. It helps individuals cope with the death of a loved one. Counselors teach the patients coping skills and strategies to deal with their problems.

Long-term mental health counseling services are for those who need ongoing support. These services help individuals manage their mental health for some time. Counselors assist them in making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking.

Individual and family counseling are typical long-term services. Counselors and patients work together to look at different issues and resolve conflicts.

Psychotherapy and Medication Management

Psychotherapy is the primary form of mental health counseling. It involves talking to a therapist either for the short or long term. The goal is to identify and change negative thinking and behavior patterns.

A psychotherapist can conduct it in individual, group, or family sessions. It can be in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as medication.

Art therapy is a type of psychotherapy that uses art to communicate. Patients can express their feelings, work through trauma, and explore their creative side. Therapists use it often with other types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Medication management is the use of psychotropic medications to treat mental health conditions. Doctors use sedatives and antidepressants to stabilize mood, relieve symptoms, and prevent relapse. Medication management is often used with psychotherapy to provide a holistic approach.

A holistic treatment approach involves recovering the patient’s mind, body, and spirit. It suggests physical health, relationships, lifestyle choices, and spiritual beliefs affect mental health. Holistic treatment aims to address all these factors to promote wellness.

Counseling for Mental Illness and Mental Wellness

Some mental health counselors specialize in counseling for mental illness. Some choose to counsel for mental wellness. Some work with both populations.

Mental illness counseling usually focuses on diagnosing and treating mental disorders. Counselors who work with this population may provide individual, group, or family therapy. They may also provide case management services. And then refer clients to other resources, such as psychiatrists or support groups.

Mental wellness counseling focuses on helping people maintain their mental health. It helps individuals create and keep up positive psychological well-being. Counselors can assist the patients in adjusting to different circumstances. And further roll out positive improvements in their lives.

Mental Health Care Matters Too

There are different types of mental health counseling services. Each one has its focus and goals.

Some of them focus on helping mentally ill people manage their symptoms. Other services cater to resolving personal issues and coping with stressful life events.

Do you or someone you know battle with a mental health issue? You’d better get a mental health counseling service fast.

Do not ignore the signs and symptoms. Seek support and help before it is too late.

Did you enjoy this article? Check out more great content like this on our website.