At Brookhaven Retreat we feel strongly that the success of our clients is best supported when loved ones are involved in their treatment and their follow up care post discharge. While the person who comes to us for treatment may be in the greatest level of distress, the entire family system is often affected and needs support, education, and therapy as well to solidify the gains of the person seeking care. The best way a family member can support or help their loved one is to be involved and take guidance from those who are working clinically with them while at Brookhaven Retreat and on an outpatient basis when they return home.
While at Brookhaven Retreat we make efforts to involve the family in treatment in many ways. Please keep in mind, it is always up to the client as to who they will authorize us to involve in their care but this is something we strongly encourage. We offer family therapy to our clients at least once a week as recommended by the primary therapist and treatment team. We have a standard visitation time every Sunday afternoon, maintain weekly contact with family, and offer on and off campus therapeutic passes with family when it is appropriate in the course of treatment. After all, the family will be the informal support that our clients have when they return home and we want to educate and strengthen these connections to allow for the best transition home possible.
For our alumnae we continue to encourage family involvement in treatment after our clients have returned home. This may take place in outpatient family or marital therapy or support groups for family members to attend with their loved one or independently. Again, maintaining a positive support system is a crucial piece of long-term success in recovery. Being willing to involve family in your care both during and after this treatment and for family to be willing to engage in your treatment efforts will be essential.
