Understanding Level 3 Mental Health Facilities: Care & Support

Sometimes outpatient therapy and medication are not enough to help a person recover from a mental illness. When this happens, a person may need to enter a facility where their needs can be met more effectively. The type of facility depends on the level of care needed.

Levels of Mental Health Facilities

• There are six levels of mental health care. They are listed from least restrictive, level 1, to most restrictive, level 6. Level 3 mental health facilities fall in the middle. Services are still provided on an outpatient basis, but on a more intensive level.

Intensive Outpatient Services

• Intensive outpatient services are designed for people who do not yet need 24 hour care in a hospital setting. With the help of a team of nurses, counselors, doctors, and family, the individual works on a program designed to resolve immediate areas of concern. Short-term stabilization often occurs as a result.

Provision

• Choosing a level 3 facility can mean choosing a less restrictive environment in which the individual can receive help while still maintaining independence.

Location

• The best place to seek help in finding a level 3, or intensive outpatient facility, is your local community service board. Your primary care physician can also help you in connecting with an intensive outpatient facility.

Insurance

• Most insurance companies will pay for intensive outpatient treatment because the overall cost is much lower than at an inpatient facility. They are not paying for a bed and meals. However, it is always best to check with your insurance carrier before starting services.