Levels of Care in Mental Health

You’ve probably clicked on this article because you noted 2 things: 

(1) There are A LOT of acronyms and titles that appear to be the same and 

(2) navigating the mental health care system can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to determine the ‘right’ level of care for your needs. 

Sometimes you might find yourself straddling two different levels or all levels throughout the day. 

It’s important to recognize that seeking support is a brave and vital step toward well-being, and the complexity of the system does not reflect any inadequacy on your part. In Minnesota, a robust continuum of mental health services exists to meet people where they are, ranging from outpatient care, the most common and flexible option, to more intensive levels such as Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs), residential care, and inpatient hospitalization. 

For many, outpatient therapy—whether with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), or Licensed Psychologist (LP)—is the first and often most appropriate step. This setting offers therapy and, when needed, medication management through psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners. 

For individuals requiring additional support, options like IOPs provide structured group and individual therapy for a few hours daily, while PHPs offer more intensive daily treatment, often serving as a bridge between hospitalization and outpatient care. Residential and inpatient services provide 24/7 support for those facing significant challenges. 

Minnesota's system also includes specialized crisis services, mobile crisis teams, and community-focused supports like Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health Services (ARMHS) and supportive housing programs. While it may seem daunting to identify the best care, know that there are compassionate providers ready to help you understand and access the support that aligns with your needs. Reaching out is a meaningful first step in reclaiming your mental health.

Using a search engine or a director site for therapists like Inclusive Therapists or Psychology Today, with search terms for the type of care you think you might need can help speed up the process.

Below is an outline of the continuum of care that exist:

1. Inpatient Mental Health Care

  • Overview: For individuals experiencing acute psychiatric symptoms, severe impairment, or imminent safety risks to themselves or others.

  • Key Features:

    • Highly structured and restrictive to ensure safety.

    • Provides 24/7 medical and psychiatric care.

    • Includes crisis stabilization, medication management, and therapy.

    • Average stay: 3-7 days for voluntary patients; 14-90+ days for involuntary patients, depending on severity.

  • Who It’s For: People experiencing a psychiatric crisis or severe substance use-related impairment.

2. Residential Mental Health Care

  • Overview: Live-in treatment with 24-hour professional support for those whose daily functioning is significantly impacted by mental health symptoms.

  • Key Features:

    • Medication management often included.

    • Focus on developing independent living, vocational, and social skills.

    • Duration varies based on program goals and individual needs.

  • Who It’s For: Individuals requiring more intensive support than outpatient care but not in immediate crisis.

3. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

  • Overview: A step-down from inpatient care, PHP provides structured, intensive therapy while allowing individuals to return home at the end of the day.

  • Key Features:

    • 4-6 hours of therapy daily, 5-7 days per week.

    • Includes group and individual therapy, along with medication management.

    • Often used as a transition from inpatient care.

  • Who It’s For: People needing significant support but not requiring 24-hour supervision.

4. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

  • Overview: A flexible, structured program focusing on symptom management and skill-building.

  • Key Features:

    • 2-3 hours of therapy per day, 3-5 days a week.

    • May include group or individual therapy, sometimes medication management.

    • Some IOPs specialize in specific conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, eating disorders).

    • Available in-person or virtually.

  • Who It’s For: Individuals who need more support than standard outpatient care but can manage their symptoms with part-time treatment.

5. Outpatient Mental Health Care

  • Overview: The most common and accessible level of care, typically provided in specialty mental health clinics or primary care settings.

  • Key Features:

    • Therapy sessions (individual or group) once a week or adjusted based on needs.

    • Medication management with a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner.

    • Includes evidence-based treatments tailored to personal goals.

Who It’s For: The majority of people seeking mental health support, often for mild to moderate symptoms.