Make an Appointment

714-456-5902

Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic


714-456-2924

Behavioral Health Day Treatment Programs: PHP/IOP

Teen Mental Health FAQ

What is the philosophy of UCI Health’s psychiatric programs?

The UCI Health philosophy of care is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy principles. We teach kids how to reframe negative thoughts (e.g., catastrophic thoughts, black-and-white thinking, negative self-talk) to help them feel differently about their lives based on what they tell themselves. Behavior changes often stem from feelings and perceptions. Positive thoughts often generate more socially appropriate behavior.

Who pays for the Neuropsychiatric Teen Partial Hospitalization Program?

UCI Health contracts with many insurance companies that cover the program. For patients without coverage, there is a daily rate available. MediCal does not offer this program as a covered benefit.

Why do we need to have an assessment before starting the Partial Hospitalization Program?

A team of professional psychiatrists, social workers and the clinical manager of the Teen Partial Hospitalization Program meets with the parent(s) and team to determine if this is the appropriate level of care for the patient. They also gather information for the insurance company to authorize this level of care.

Will my adolescent get further behind in school by going into the Partial Hospitalization Program?

The absence is considered a medical leave while the adolescent remains under a doctor’s care. We understand that school is also important. Therefore, we provide a teacher both in the inpatient and outpatient program. Every effort is made to encourage and support the adolescent's learning while dealing with their emotional issues.

Often any short-term loss is worth the long-term gain for the teen to learn reinforcing and coping skills, and increase the chances of concentrating more effectively.

Will my adolescent learn dangerous behavior being around others with more severe problems?

Many teens are already exposed to a variety of societal ills and transgressions through peers, the media, school and other families. In the Partial Hospitalization Program, many addictions, maladaptive coping skills and poor choices are discussed and deterrents offered as a means of relapse prevention. Outpatient therapy is likewise encouraged to reinforce gains made.

How much supervision will my adolescent have in the Partial Hospitalization Program?

The Partial Hospitalization Program is a voluntary program conducted in an unlocked unit. Patients are supervised at all times by an interdisciplinary staff of nurses and social workers. Access to security guards and child psychiatrists is always available in cases of emergency or psychiatric crisis.

How involved are parents in these programs?

The program is family focused, and all parents participate in weekly family therapy sessions with a staff therapist. For patients in the inpatient and partial hospitalization programs, outpatient family therapy after discharge is encouraged. Feedback from parents on a daily basis is requested and encouraged.

Make an Appointment

714-456-5902

Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic


714-456-2924

Behavioral Health Day Treatment Programs: PHP/IOP