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10 Tips for Smoother Mornings

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

10 Tips for Smoother Mornings

Not all of us are morning and getting yourself and your kids ready and out the door can be down right stressful. Here are a few helpful tips to make mornings go smoothly.

1. Pack lunches the night before

Instead of rushing around in the morning to pack lunches for yourself and your kids do it the night before.  You can even include your kids in this and have them help pack their own lunch.

2. Gets backpacks and outfits laid out

Having everything packed the night before eliminates the morning stress have rushing around to find library books that are due or show and tell items that are needed for that day.

3. Create a visual schedule for the morning routine

Visual reminders will help kids remember what is included in their morning routine. It will also help to keep them on task.

4. No screen time until everyone is completely ready

Not having screen time until everyone is ready can help with motivating everyone to stick to the routine so that

5. Give everyone a responsibility

Give everyone a job to help get ready in the morning. Whether it is putting out the dishes for breakfast, helping put away today, or helping a younger sibling get ready. Everyone will play a part in getting ready.

6. Be consistent

Being consistent will help your morning routine become habit for your family.

7. Make sure everyone gets enough sleep

Both you and your kids need sleep. Mornings will go better when everyone wakes up feeling well rested.

8. Don’t leave breakfast until last

Everyone has a hard time concentrating and getting things done when they are hungry. Have breakfast earlier in the morning to avoid cranky kids and cranky adults.

9. Remember to check the calendar

Set notifications if there is something special going on that day. No one wants to forget a fun dress up day for the kids or forget to get a treat ready for the class.

10. Stay calm

The more you can organize the easier it will be to get things ready in the morning without getting frustrated or flustered.

How your morning goes can really set the tone for your entire day. Use these tips to help form a morning routine and have less stressful mornings.

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28

How to help your child get back into a school routine

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

The back-to-school season can be a challenging time for both kids and parents. After a long summer of freedom, it can be tough to get back into the swing of things. But with a little planning and preparation, you can help your child get back into a school routine with ease.

Here are some tips:

  1. Start establishing a routine a few weeks before school starts. This will give your child time to adjust to the new schedule and make it less of a shock when the first day of school arrives. Start by gradually shifting bedtimes and wake-up times earlier. You can also start incorporating some school-like activities into your child’s day, such as reading, writing, and doing math problems.
  2. Create a visual schedule. A visual schedule can be a helpful tool for children who are visual learners. It can help them see what activities they need to do each day and in what order. You can create a simple schedule on a piece of paper or use a more elaborate planner.
  3. Be consistent. Once you’ve established a routine, it’s important to be consistent with it. This means sticking to the same bedtimes, wake-up times, and activities each day. If you’re inconsistent, your child will be more likely to get confused and frustrated.
  4. Be patient. It may take some time for your child to adjust to a new routine. Be patient with them and don’t get discouraged if they have setbacks. Just keep providing them with support and encouragement, and they’ll eventually get the hang of it.
  5. Make it fun. Try to make the school routine as fun and enjoyable as possible for your child. This could mean incorporating some of their favorite activities into the schedule, such as listening to music, playing games, or reading books.
  6. Celebrate successes. When your child does a good job of following the routine, be sure to celebrate their successes. This will help them stay motivated and on track.

Here are some additional tips for helping your child get back into a school routine:

  • Talk to your child about their fears and concerns. Many children are apprehensive about the start of a new school year. They may be worried about making new friends, doing well in their classes, or being bullied. Talk to your child about their fears and concerns and help them develop strategies for coping with them.
  • Help your child get organized. Make sure your child has a place for everything they need for school, such as their backpack, books, and school supplies. You can also help them create a homework space that is quiet and free from distractions.
  • Encourage your child to get involved in extracurricular activities. Extracurricular activities can help your child make new friends, learn new skills, and stay active. They can also provide a welcome break from the stress of school.
  • Make sure your child is getting enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is essential for children’s physical and mental health. It also helps them stay alert and focused in school.
  • Eat healthy meals and snacks. Eating healthy foods gives children the energy they need to learn and grow. It also helps them stay focused and alert in school.
  • Limit screen time. Too much screen time can interfere with sleep, school performance, and overall health. Limit your child’s screen time to two hours or less per day.

Following these tips can help your child get back into a school routine with ease. With a little planning and preparation, you can help them have a successful and enjoyable school year.

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What your emotions are trying to tell you?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention deficit disorder (ADD) are neurodevelopmental disorders that can cause difficulty with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These disorders can impact many areas of life, including school, work, relationships, and overall well-being.

While there is no cure for ADHD or ADD, there are many effective treatments available. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. With the right treatment, people with ADHD or ADD can live full and productive lives.

Here are some tips for navigating through life with ADHD or ADD:

  1. Get diagnosed and treated. The first step to managing ADHD or ADD is to get diagnosed by a qualified healthcare professional. Once you have a diagnosis, you can work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
  2. Take medication, if needed. Medication can be an effective way to manage the symptoms of ADHD or ADD. If you are taking medication, it is important to take it as prescribed by your doctor.
  3. Get therapy. Therapy can help you learn how to manage your ADHD or ADD symptoms and develop coping skills. There are many different types of therapy that can be helpful for people with ADHD or ADD, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).
  4. Make lifestyle changes. There are a number of lifestyle changes that can help you manage your ADHD or ADD symptoms. These changes may include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
  5. Find a support system. Having a support system of friends, family, and other people with ADHD or ADD can be invaluable. Talking to others who understand what you are going through can help you feel less alone and more empowered to manage your condition.

Navigating through life with ADHD or ADD can be challenging, but it is possible to live a full and productive life. By getting diagnosed and treated, getting therapy, making lifestyle changes, and finding a support system, you can manage your symptoms and live a happy and fulfilling life.

Here are some additional tips that may be helpful for people with ADHD or ADD:

  • Set realistic goals. When you have ADHD or ADD, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by tasks. Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
  • Reward yourself for your accomplishments. When you reach a goal, take some time to celebrate your success. This will help you stay motivated and on track.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you are struggling, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, therapist, or other professional.
  • Learn to forgive yourself. Everyone makes mistakes. When you make a mistake, don’t dwell on it. Learn from your mistake and move on.

Living with ADHD or ADD can be challenging, but it is also an opportunity to learn and grow. By following these tips, you can manage your symptoms and live a happy and fulfilling life.

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24
Pride Month;A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Identity and History

Pride Month: A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Identity and History

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and its history. The month is marked by parades, festivals, and other events that bring people together to celebrate their identity and advocate for equality.

What is Pride Month?

Pride Month is an annual observance that commemorates the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City. The riots were a turning point in the gay liberation movement, and they helped to spark the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States and around the world.

The first Pride march was held in New York City in 1970, and it was a small event with about 1,000 people in attendance. However, the march quickly grew in popularity, and today Pride events are held all over the world.

How to Celebrate Pride Month

There are many ways to celebrate Pride Month. Some people participate in parades, marches, and other public demonstrations. Others attend festivals, concerts, and other cultural events. Still others simply wear rainbow flags or other symbols of pride.

Here are some additional ideas for celebrating Pride Month:

  • Attend a Pride parade or march.
  • Go to a Pride festival or concert.
  • Visit a local LGBTQ+ community center.
  • Volunteer for an LGBTQ+ organization.
  • Support LGBTQ+ businesses.
  • Be an ally to LGBTQ+ people in your community.
  • Talk to your friends and family about LGBTQ+ issues.

Support Resources

There are many resources available to help you learn more about LGBTQ+ issues and celebrate Pride Month. Here are a few:

Why is Pride Month Important?

Pride Month is important because it is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and its achievements. It is also a time to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues and advocate for equality.

Pride Month is a reminder that the LGBTQ+ community has come a long way, but there is still work to be done. We must continue to fight for equality for all LGBTQ+ people, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, or socioeconomic status.

Conclusion

Pride Month is a celebration of LGBTQ+ Identity and history, but it is also a time to reflect on the challenges that the LGBTQ+ community still faces. In conclusion we must continue to fight for equality for all LGBTQ+ people, furthermore we must never forget the sacrifices that have been made to get us where we are today.

Happy Pride Month From Collaborative Counseling!

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22
Self care, biking, running, meditate

Self-care is important for everyone, but it can be especially difficult to make time for when you’re on a budget. Taking care of yourself is an investment in your health and well-being, and it’s worth it to make time for it, even if you’re on a budget. Here are 20 budget-friendly self-care ides that can help you take care of yourself without breaking the bank:

  1. Take a walk. Going for a walk is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, both of which are beneficial for your physical and mental health. And, it’s free!
  2. Read a book. Curling up with a good book is a great way to relax and escape from the stresses of everyday life. If you don’t have a lot of money to spend on books, check out your local library or bookshop for used books.
  3. Listen to music. Listening to music can help to improve your mood and reduce stress. Create a playlist of your favorite songs or listen to a new album.
  4. Take a bath. Adding some essential oils to your bath can help to create a relaxing atmosphere. You can also add some bath salts or bubbles for an extra treat.
  5. Get a massage. If you can afford it, a massage is a great way to relax and de-stress. However, there are also many ways to give yourself a massage at home. Try using a tennis ball or rolling pin to massage your muscles.
  6. Meditate. Meditation is a great way to reduce stress and improve your focus. There are many different types of meditation, so find one that works for you.
  7. Yoga. Yoga is a great way to improve your flexibility, strength, and balance. It can also help to reduce stress and improve your mood.
  8. Spend time in nature. Spending time in nature has been shown to have a number of benefits for your physical and mental health. Go for a walk in the park, hike in the woods, or just sit in your backyard and enjoy the fresh air.
  9. Get enough sleep. When you’re well-rested, you’re better able to handle stress and make good decisions. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
  10. Eat healthy foods. Eating healthy foods gives you the energy you need to feel your best. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
  11. Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is important for your physical and mental health. Aim to drink 8 glasses of water per day.
  12. Get regular exercise. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, improve your mood, and boost your energy levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
  13. Spend time with loved ones. Social connection is important for your mental health. Make time for the people who matter most to you.
  14. Do something you enjoy. Whether it’s reading, painting, or playing music, make time for something that you enjoy doing. This will help you to relax and de-stress.
  15. Set boundaries. It’s important to set boundaries between work and personal time. Make sure to take some time for yourself each day to relax and recharge.
  16. Say no. It’s okay to say no to things that you don’t have time for or that you don’t want to do. Don’t feel guilty about putting your own needs first.
  17. Take care of your mental health. If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to develop coping mechanisms and strategies for dealing with stress.
  18. Be kind to yourself. It’s important to be kind to yourself, even when you make mistakes. Forgive yourself and move on.
  19. Take a break from social media. Social media can be a great way to stay connected with friends and family, but it can also be a major source of stress. Take a break from social media every now and then to clear your head and relax.
  20. Do something nice for someone else. Doing something nice for someone else can help to improve your mood and make you feel good about yourself. Volunteer your time, donate to a charity, or simply do a kind act for a stranger.

These are just a few ideas for budget-friendly self-care. The most important thing is to find activities that you enjoy and that help you to relax and de-stress.

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19

The Importance of Fathers

Posted by Sam McManigle

Father’s Day is a special day to celebrate all the fathers in our lives. It is a time to show our appreciation for their love, support, and guidance. Fathers play a vital role in the development of their children, and their influence can be felt for a lifetime. The importance of fathers cannot be overstated.

Here are some of the reasons why fathers are so important:

  • They provide love and support. Fathers are a source of love and support for their children. They are there to comfort them when they are sad, to cheer them on when they are happy, and to help them through tough times.
  • They teach their children important life skills. Fathers teach their children important life skills, such as how to be responsible, how to work hard, and how to be kind and compassionate. They also help their children develop their talents and interests.
  • They serve as role models. Fathers serve as role models for their children. They teach their children what it means to be a man, a husband, and a father. They also show their children how to be responsible, how to work hard, and how to be kind and compassionate.

Fathers play a vital role in the development of their children, and their influence can be felt for a lifetime. On this Father’s Day, let us all take a moment to thank our fathers for all that they do.

Here are some specific ways that fathers can positively impact their children’s lives:

  • Be present. The most important thing that a father can do for his children is to be present in their lives. This means spending time with them, listening to them, and being involved in their activities.
  • Be a role model. Children learn by watching the adults in their lives. If a father wants his children to be kind, compassionate, and responsible, he needs to model those qualities himself.
  • Set high expectations. Fathers should set high expectations for their children. This doesn’t mean that they need to be perfect, but they should expect their children to work hard, do their best, and be respectful of others.
  • Be supportive. Fathers should be supportive of their children’s dreams and goals. They should encourage them to follow their passions and to never give up on their dreams.
  • Be patient. Parenting is a journey, and it’s important to be patient with yourself and your children. There will be ups and downs, but if you’re patient and loving, you’ll get through them together.

Fathers play a vital role in the lives of their children. By being present, being a role model, setting high expectations, being supportive, and being patient, fathers can help their children grow into happy, healthy, and successful adults.

How to Celebrate Father’s Day There are many ways to celebrate.

Here are a few ideas:

  • Spend time together. The best way to celebrate Father’s Day is to spend time with your father. Go on a hike, play catch, or just sit and talk.
  • Give him a gift. A gift doesn’t have to be expensive. A homemade card, a framed photo, or a gift certificate to his favorite store will show him how much you care.
  • Make him a meal. Cooking dinner for your father is a great way to show him how much you appreciate him. He’ll love a home-cooked meal, especially if it’s his favorite dish.
  • Write him a letter. A letter is a personal way to express your love and appreciation for your father. Tell him how much he means to you and why you’re so grateful to have him in your life.
  • Take him out to his favorite place. If your father has a favorite restaurant or activity, take him out to enjoy it. He’ll love spending time with you and doing something he enjoys.

Overall no matter how you choose to celebrate Father’s Day, make sure to let your father know how much you love and appreciate him. He deserves it!

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18

Helping others improves your mental health

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
Helping others

Helping others can be altruistic and also helping others can be a way to improve your mental health. Helping others improves your mental health and well being. We all have those days when we’re feeling down. Maybe we had a bad day at work, or maybe we’re just feeling stressed out about life in general. On those days, it can be really helpful to have a little bit of kindness from a stranger. Even a small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day.

Here are 20 ways to brighten a stranger’s day

  • Pay them a compliment.
  • Hold the door open for them.
  • Let them go ahead of you in line.
  • Give them your seat on the bus or train.
  • Help them carry their groceries.
  • Pay for their coffee or meal.
  • Give them a flower.
  • Write them a thank-you note.
  • Smile at them.
  • Listen to them.
  • Offer to help them with something.
  • Give them a compliment on their work.
  • Give them a gift.
  • Volunteer your time.
  • Be kind to animals.
  • Be patient.
  • Be forgiving.
  • Be positive.
  • Be grateful.
  • Just be kind.

These are just a few ideas for ways to brighten a stranger’s day. There are many other ways to show kindness to others. The important thing is to be mindful of the people around you and to look for opportunities to make a difference. Even a small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day.

Here are some ways that helping others can improve mental health

  • Reduce stress: Helping others can take your mind off of your own problems and give you a sense of purpose. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Increase self-esteem: When you help others, it can make you feel good about yourself and your abilities. This can help to improve your self-esteem.
  • Build relationships: Helping others can help you to connect with others and build strong relationships. This can provide you with social support, which can be helpful for mental health.
  • Feel connected to something bigger than yourself: Helping others can help you to feel like you are part of something bigger than yourself. This can give you a sense of purpose and meaning in life, which can be helpful for mental health.

Acts of kindness help everyone

These acts of kindness can also have a positive impact on the mental health of the person doing the helping.

For example, when you pay someone a compliment, it can make them feel good about themselves. This can boost their self-esteem and make them feel more confident. When you hold the door open for someone, it shows that you are considerate of others. This can make them feel appreciated and valued. When you let someone go ahead of you in line, it shows that you are patient and understanding. This can make them feel less stressed and more relaxed.

All of these acts of kindness can have a positive impact on the mental health of the person doing the helping. They can reduce stress, increase self-esteem, build relationships, and make people feel more connected to something bigger than themselves. To learn more about ways to boost your self esteem, visit our page on self esteem by clicking here!

If you are looking for ways to improve your own mental health, consider finding ways to help others. It’s a win-win for everyone involved. Helping others improves your mental health and theirs!

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10

A Closer Look at Anxiety

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
What your emotions are trying to tell you?

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health issues people face. While it is common, there is still some misunderstanding about what anxiety can look like. Lets take a closer look.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a general term that refers to many disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder & panic attacks, separation anxiety and specific phobias (e.g. germs, flying, driving etc.). All of the disorders categorized under Anxiety, share the concept of excessive fear that results in a behavioral and functional disturbance. Excessive fear can refer to an emotional response to either a perceived threat or anticipation of a future threat. Panic attacks are an example of a fear response.

It is important to note that anxiety is a normal part of life. However, when anxiety interferes with daily activities due to overwhelming and persistent worry, you may have an anxiety disorder.

Risk Factors

There are several risk factors for developing anxiety. Major ones include:

  • Genetics: Anxiety has a hereditary risk factor as it can run in families.
  • Environmental Factors: Parenting behaviors such as being controlling or exhibiting anxious behavior can be risk factors for children.
  • Personality: Those who are introverted and less conscientious may be at risk for an anxiety disorder
  • Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop anxiety.

Treatments for Anxiety Disorders

There are many different forms of therapy and treatment for anxiety. Some of the most common include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that focuses on changing the way you think and behave. CBT can help you identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to your anxiety, and learn new coping skills to manage your anxiety symptoms. Learn more about CBT in this article: APA – What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
  • Exposure therapy is a type of therapy that involves gradually exposing you to the things or situations that make you anxious. This can help you learn to manage your anxiety and cope with your fears.
  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a type of therapy that focuses on helping you accept your anxiety and commit to living a meaningful life despite your fears.
  • Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that combines CBT, mindfulness, and acceptance skills to help you manage your emotions and cope with difficult situations.
  • Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is a type of therapy that focuses on your relationships with others. IPT can help you improve your communication skills, resolve conflict, and build stronger relationships.

In addition to therapy, there are also a number of medications that can be used to treat anxiety. These medications work by changing the way your brain functions, and can help to reduce your anxiety symptoms.

However, if you are struggling with anxiety, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist or doctor can help you develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

Steps you can take to get help for anxiety disorders

    • Talk to your doctor. Your doctor can refer you to a therapist or counselor who specializes in anxiety disorders.
    • Do your research. Once you have a few names, take some time to research each therapist or counselor. Read online reviews, and see if you can find any testimonials from other patients.
    • Schedule a consultation. Once you have found a few therapists or counselors that you are interested in, schedule a consultation with each one. This will give you a chance to meet with them and see if they are a good fit for you.
    • Be patient. Finding the right therapist or counselor can take time. Don’t be afraid to try out a few different people until you find someone who you feel comfortable with.
    • Self care. Begin with some basic self care. You can learn more at our blog at: Simple Self Care

For therapy support in Minnesota or Wisconsin, you can reach out to our team to help you find a therapist by calling 763-210-9966 or requesting an appointment by clicking here.

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24

Types of Licensure

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

This article shares about types of licensure so you can understand the difference in types of therapists. There are several ways that one can pursue education in order to become a therapist. Understanding the differences in each licensure will help you understand how your therapist, or potential therapist is trained.

Here we will outline some of the most common licensures that our therapists have here at Collaborative Counseling.

Masters Degree

Above all else, a masters degree is required before obtaining licensure. Therapists can received a masters degree in many areas of study. These include psychology, social work, counseling, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, and many more.

It typically takes two years to complete a masters program. And requires completion of a four year degree.

Once a masters degree is obtained and before one can take the state or professional exam, several steps of provisional licensure and supervised counseling take place. When an applicate completes and passes this exam, they are a licensed therapist.

In the U.S., requirements for becoming a therapist are determined by state. As a result, the requirements vary depending where you live.

Types of licensure
Types of Licensure

Here are general descriptions and requirements of different licensure.

Licensed Psychologist (PhD, PsyD, or EdD)

Generally, you will need a doctoral degree to practice as a licensed psychologist. Doctorate programs are often the highest level of education in most fields. They take around four years to complete, after completing a bachelors degree. These psychologists have the ability to do psychological testing. In general, other licensed professionals cannot.

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Licensed Professional Counselors are masters level mental health providers. They require:

  • A minimum of 700 hours of supervised field experience in graduate school
  • Depending upon degree, 2,000-3,000 hours of post-graduate clinical supervision hours
  • Passing the credentialing exam

These professionals can work in a variety of settings, including communities and private practice. LPC’s work with individuals, families, couples and groups.

In Minnesota, LPC is not a common licensure, but Wisconsin uses these requirements for LPC’s.

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors are also masters level professionals that have a masters degree in counseling or another related field. Some requirements for these counselors include:

  • an additional 2,000 post graduate supervision hours for licensure compared to LPC’s, for a total of 4,000 hours.
  • passing the credentialing exam

This is a more common licensure in Minnesota because this is the license insurance companies will reimburse.

LPCC providers can work in a variety of settings including private practice, residential facilities, community based agencies, schools and more! This licensure level is trained to offer therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups.

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

A Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker is within the field of Social Work. These training programs focus on therapy from a perspective of the community that surrounds oneself.

To become a LICSW:

  • First, one must get their masters in social work (MSW)
  • After that you work towards licensure via clinical experience in and after graduate school.
  • After schooling comes a post graduate school experience. During this time social workers are supervised by a fully licensed person before receiving their own independent licensure.
  • Then they must take the state licensing exam.

Also, another variation of LICSW’s is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). This includes minor changes in requirements from state to state. For example, LCSW’s practice in Wisconsin, while LICSW’s practice in Minnesota.

A big benefit of this type of license is the type of insurance that LICSW’s and LCSW’s can accept. For example, they are able to accept Medicare if they choose to, while other licensed professionals do not have the option to accept this due to Medicare guidelines.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Licensed Marriage and Family therapists are another sub-sect of mental health providers that offer services to couples, families, and individuals. While LMFT’s do tend to work more in family and relationship settings, this is not the only population LMFT’s can work with.

Marriage and family graduate programs focus more on the family systems and relationships surrounding one’s life. This training informs and impacts the way LMFT’s approach therapy.

These therapists require:

  • 4,000 hours of post graduate supervised experience
  • Passing the national MFT exam.

LMFT’s can also work in private practice, community settings or residential facilities.

Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC)

Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors are master level professionals. They require:

  • Completion of 880 hours of supervised experience during the alcohol and drug graduate program
  • Candidates must pass the licensing exam

Having a variety of training programs for counseling helps keep our field diverse. It also helps provide a variety of specialties in our field. The vast array of services that are offered come from the differences in licensure. Providers with different licensure often focus their practice in certain specialties based on their degree and license.

However, a provider’s specific area of expertise could vary. It is best to schedule an appointment or meet a therapist personally to see if they are the best fit for you. We hope it helped to learn about the types of licensure of our providers.

For more information, call our office today to see who is available and may be a good fit for you! To learn more about our providers visit our website at https://www.collaborativemn.com/meet-our-team.

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02

Levels of Mental Health Care

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
How to Successfully Co-parent with your Ex Partner and How it Benefits your Child

There are many different program options for addressing issues with mental health. It can be difficult to know which type would be the best fit for you or a loved one. We are going to try to break down the levels of mental health care to make it a little simpler!

Outpatient Options

In outpatient care, the patient goes to the place of service, gets said service, and then goes back home all in one day. There are four levels of outpatient care: 12-Step programs, routine outpatient programs, intensive outpatient programs, and partial hospitalization.

12-Step Programs

12 step level of mental health care

In a 12-Step program, participants typically meet on a weekly or monthly basis to talk in a group about shared struggles. People share their experiences and build a support community through those stories. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is one really common example of this type of service. Other subject areas include gambling, sex addition, eating disorders, and many more.

Routine Outpatient Care

Routine outpatient care is what we do here at Collaborative Counseling. In this level of mental health care, patients meet with a therapist in an office. Sessions typically last around an hour. Therapists will facilitate conversation to help with whatever may be happening in their life.

Intensive Outpatient Programs

outpatient level of mental health care

Intensive outpatient programs are similar to routine care in that the client goes to an office for services. However, these programs often involve both group therapy and individual therapy on a regular basis. The sessions are typically longer or occur more often.

Partial Hospitalization

Partial hospitalization (PHP) is one step higher in care. These programs are usually all day. The client would spend their day in different therapy sessions and/or programs and then go home for the night. There is more structure and help with basic care needs.

Inpatient Options

These levels of care take place in a hospital or residential setting. People typically check to a hospital or another facility where they spend the night. The two levels of inpatient care are: acute inpatient care and residential treatment.

Acute Inpatient Care

Acute inpatient care is a short term hospitalization. When care in an outpatient setting is not enough, clients can go to an inpatient facility. Facilities are staffed 24 hours a day by trained individuals monitoring client. The goal is usually to get the client stable enough to go back home.

Residential Treatment

Residential Treatment options last a bit longer than acute care. They take place in a home or apartment setting. There are still medically trained staff present, but they may not be monitoring the client as close as in a hospital. Clients work on building community in their living space while addressing their personal concerns.

No matter where you are at in your mental health journey, there are options for you! Hopefully this information helped clarify the levels of mental health care available.

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