At Brookhaven Retreat we feel strongly that the success of our clients is best supported when loved ones are involved in their treatment as well as their follow-up care after 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 in order to help 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 their loved one while at Brookhaven Retreat.
We make efforts to involve the family in treatment at Brookhaven Retreat in several ways. 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. Family members may be asked to do their own assignments and reading as part of the treatment. This is a very individualized aspect and will be addressed as part of the treatment planning.
For our alumnae we continue to encourage family involvement in treatment after our clients have returned home. We may recommend outpatient family or marital therapy or support groups for family members to attend with their loved one or independently. Maintaining a positive support system is a crucial piece of long-term success in recovery.
