Page 19 - Silver Linings Issue2

with individualized case management, coordination of care, crisis support, and family support at both pre- and post- discharge. It also gives patients a fast track for readmission, should that become necessary. The program launched for psychotic spectrum and bipolar disorder patients and has expanded to include those living with personality disorders and adolescents.
“Our patients told us of their need for more support in maintaining stability in the community,” Dr. Groat says. “Aftercare support helps people stay connected within their community. We provide a lot of tangible support for them and keep in touch with their care providers. This new service is a way of extending our continuum of care.”
Dr. Groat notes that the stress caused by past traumatic experiences can sometimes be difficult to overcome. People may avoid relationships or
live in fear. To resolve these challenges, a trauma therapist uses an evidence-based treatment approach to help the patient break through “stuck points” that prevent the patient from living life to the fullest.
“Over 90% of those who complete our 12 to 15 session trauma program experience significant symptomatic
relief from the symptoms of trauma. People feel freer and better able to cope,” Dr. Groat says. “We believe the Trauma Recovery Service differentiates Silver Hill in this region.”
DBT-S
(Specialized Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Substance Abuse)
Silver Hill Hospital launched its Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Substance Abuse, or DBT-S, program earlier this year. This customized curriculum builds on the principles of DBT and applies similar coping strategies for people struggling with a substance abuse disorder and co-occurring psychiatric conditions.
In the DBT-S program, patients learn how to manage their emotions and urges to use more effectively. They also learn and practice the skills necessary to
build emotionally healthy and sober lives.
“This new curriculum builds on a Silver Hill strength,” Dr. Groat says. “We are among only a few programs in the United States that offers a staff as intensively and expertly trained in DBT as those found at Silver Hill. This new program helps us stand out even more.”
What’s ahead for Silver Hill?
The future is bright!
Clinical innovation will continue in the year ahead for Silver Hill Hospital. Dr. Groat says the clinical team is looking ahead to proactively address emerging mental health concerns.
Silver Hill Hospital is looking into ways to better serve
the LGBTQ communities. Many of the adolescents who come to Silver Hill have confusion
or discomfort around their gender identity.
“There is more openness to
examining the distress many
feel around gender identity,” Dr.
Groat says. “We are looking at
how to respond to these needs, including more gender affirming programming, staff training,
and inclusive messaging. We
want to be proactive and lead
the way.” 19
Trauma
Recovery
Services
Helps Patients Get ‘Unstuck”
Trauma and adverse childhood experiences are far more common than many people think. Upwards of 60 percent or more of patients that come to Silver Hill Hospital report experiences of adversity in their lives. Increased exposure to adversity in one’s life can incrementally increase the risk of physical and mental illness later in life.
SILVER LININGS MAGAZINE | ISSUE TWO | 2021