Why is a clear mental health diagnosis so important?
A clear and accurate mental health diagnosis is a critical part of developing a treatment plan that works. Too often, many years of collected diagnoses and symptoms that evolve over time can leave you confused about what is actually going on – and not getting better.
At The Retreat, we complete a two-week diagnostic process while beginning your individualized treatment plan – meaning that we start treating you from day one. We specialize in complex cases, and many people who have struggled for years start feeling an immediate difference. Our clinicians have deep expertise in getting to the root of the problem. They will complete a thorough diagnostic assessment coupled with observation and therapy from the very beginning of your stay. Many residents leave with a new or clarified diagnosis – and the confidence that they are on the path to healing.
What kinds of mental health conditions are diagnosed at The Retreat?
The Retreat has expertise in diagnosis and treating adults with a variety of mental health conditions. We have particular expertise in:
- Mood disorders - including treatment-resistant depression
- OCD and anxiety
- Co-occurring disorders – when someone has more than one mental health condition at a time, or has a mental health condition complicated by a substance use disorder diagnosis
- And other diagnoses
Specialty consultations are available on-site
Thanks to Sheppard Pratt’s world-renowned continuum of care, we can also fine-tune diagnoses through in-house consultations with specialists across psychiatry, including:
- Eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, ARFID (avoidant restrictive food intake disorder), OSFED (other specified feeding and eating disorder), and others
- Cognitive disorders and dementia
- Personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and others
- Autism spectrum disorder
Who is involved in making a diagnosis?
Every resident has a multidisciplinary treatment team; each member of the team brings a unique perspective and critical insights to the table. The following members of your team at The Retreat may be involved in forming your diagnosis and treatment plan:
- Psychiatrist
- Psychologist
- Nurses
- Social workers
- Addiction counselors
- Family therapists
- Recreational therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Art therapists
The Diagnostic Process at The Retreat
Pre-Admission
The prospective resident (and their family, if desired) will meet with someone from The Retreat admissions team either over the phone or via video conference. Our multidisciplinary team reviews reports and documentation and collaborates with any relevant outpatient providers.
Admission Day
Once the resident arrives, they will be welcomed by our admissions team and given a tour.
The resident will receive a daily schedule and get to know the members of the treatment team and the other Retreat residents. They may also attend some groups if time allows.
The resident’s current medication regimen will be reviewed, and the clinical team will develop and begin the resident’s treatment plan.
Days 2 - 13
The treatment team observes residents as they attend groups and individual appointments tailored to their unique goals. The team also observes how residents interact with each other and participate in group meals and activities.
These notes and observations help contribute to diagnostic determinations.
Day 14
After two weeks, all members of the treatment team will meet for a Diagnostic Conference to discuss the resident’s goals, their progress, a diagnosis, and treatment recommendations going forward.
If the resident desires, the team will also meet with the resident’s loved ones to discuss the diagnosis and treatment plan.
Days 14 - 20 and beyond
The resident will continue their individualized treatment recommendations, beginning to plan for discharge as appropriate. The treatment team will ensure resources are in place for continued recovery after the resident leaves The Retreat.