Understanding Levels of Mental Health Care

Mental health services are offered at various levels of care to meet the unique needs of each individual. The level of care that’s right for you depends on several factors—such as the intensity of your symptoms, your current functioning, safety concerns, and your support system. Here's a general overview of the different levels of care:

1. Inpatient Hospitalization

This is the most intensive level of care and is designed for individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis that requires immediate stabilization. This may include severe suicidal thoughts, psychosis, or inability to function safely without 24-hour supervision.

Who should go?

• Individuals at risk of harming themselves or others

• Those experiencing severe symptoms of psychosis or mania

• People who need medication stabilization under close supervision

2. Residential Treatment

Residential care provides a structured, supportive environment 24/7, but it’s less acute than hospitalization. It is often used for individuals needing long-term treatment for conditions like eating disorders, substance use disorders, or complex trauma.

Who should go?

• Individuals stepping down from hospitalization

• Those with chronic or treatment-resistant issues needing sustained care

• People who need a structured healing environment away from daily stressors

3. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

PHP offers intensive care during the day (often 5 days/week), but clients return home in the evenings. This is a bridge between inpatient/residential care and outpatient services.

Who should go?

• Individuals recently discharged from the hospital

• People who need daily therapeutic support but can manage safely at home

• Clients requiring structured support without 24-hour care

4. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

IOPs provide a moderate level of care, usually involving therapy several days a week for a few hours at a time. It supports individuals who need more than weekly therapy but don’t require daily supervision.

Who should go?

• People struggling to maintain progress in weekly therapy alone

• Individuals in recovery who benefit from group and individual support

• Clients transitioning from a higher level of care

5. Outpatient Therapy (What We Offer at Restoration Counseling)

Outpatient counseling is the most flexible and commonly used level of care. It includes regularly scheduled sessions—typically once a week or every other week—with a licensed mental health professional. Restoration Counseling specializes in this level of care.

Who is a good fit for outpatient therapy?

• Individuals experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma

• People navigating life transitions, relationship concerns, or stress management

• Clients who are stable and do not require daily or intensive support

• Those who want to integrate their Christian faith into the healing process

• Children, teens, adults, and couples seeking support in a safe, therapeutic environment

At Restoration, we walk alongside clients through life’s challenges, providing biblically grounded, clinically informed therapy tailored to your needs. If you're unsure what level of care is right for you, we’re happy to provide a consultation and help you take the next step in your healing journey.