The Ochsner Mental Wellness Program at Ochsner Medical Center is an intensive outpatient program for individuals facing mental health challenges requiring more intensive treatment than traditional outpatient therapy and medication management. This structured day program is designed to assist patients with their current psychological and medication management needs while teaching them the skills necessary for achieving and maintaining greater health and well-being.

Ochsner Mental Wellness Program

The Ochsner Mental Wellness Program is an intensive outpatient program for individuals facing mental health challenges requiring more intensive treatment than traditional outpatient therapy and medication management. This structured day program is designed to assist patients with their current psychological and medication management needs while teaching them the skills necessary for achieving and maintaining greater health and well-being.

Many patients in the program experience problems such as:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Sleep difficulties
• PTSD
• Panic Attacks and Phobias
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Medical Issues
• Relationship issues
• Work stress
• Grief and Loss
• Parent-child relational issues

Program Structure

Our team of psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, social workers, and psychiatric nurses address the broad scope of patients’ needs. New patients receive a thorough assessment that includes a full psychiatric interview, a review of their medical history and current medication regimen. If needed, meetings are conducted with the referring professional or family members.

Our holistic program skillfully navigates every patient’s biopsychosocial needs with evidence based and supportive therapies. We are adept at distinguishing between diagnoses and other medical or psychological illnesses, pinpointing areas of treatment and formulating the most effective treatment plans, in collaboration with the patient.

Through their active participation in the program, patients are taught ways to take personal responsibility for their overall health and well-being.

The daily program consists of group therapy and educational classes, with individual therapy and medication management when needed. The program emphasizes group therapy process and application of skills in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. These sessions facilitate the development of skills to assist in regaining a higher level of functioning and enhancing quality of life.

Themes covered in treatment:

• Stress management
• Cognitive restructuring
• Assertiveness
• Communication skills
• Behavioral health
• Emotion regulation
• Interpersonal effectiveness
• Relaxation Training
• Mindfulness
• Healthy eating
• Physical activity

Continuity of Care

To maintain the progress made in treatment, all patients are strongly encouraged to participate in aftercare activities such as individual counseling, follow up with psychiatrist if needed and/or the Ochsner Mental Wellness Program's aftercare groups.

Enrollment

To discuss enrollment into the Ochsner Mental Wellness Program, call 504-842-3999 option 3 or toll-free at 1-800-231-1969.