University of Rochester Medicine Mental Health & Wellness – Adult Partial Hospitalization

“You receive the daily schedule on the day of your intake so you will know what to expect, and a workbook on day one to bring to each day. Of the ten day program you are permitted to miss two days - regardless of the reasoning. I am on the middle of processing a very big trauma without medication so my anxiety is overwhelming. I was discharged from the program before being prescribed anything or properly diagnosed because I missed three days during a chronic pain flare up. I am literally unable to walk at all, sometimes can with a walker but not much because it's very painful, and can't even bathe myself and I'm being penalized for it. I never received any diagnosis or medication to help me cope with life which was the whole point so the days I did go were a waste. I am extremely disappointed with their failure to allow any leniency or extension on my program when I'm in a medical emergency. They solely reminded me of the walk in resources over the phone and told me I'm being discharged. That's cold and extremely disrespectful to everyone's individual process. They were told during my medical intake that I have chronic pain/spinal issues. This only amplifies my pre-existing mental health issues. I've been out of work on disability because my mental health is so bad and was referred bc BHCAC @ St. Mary's and I genuinely regret getting my hopes up.”

“I attended the adult partial hospitalization program at the recommendation of my therapist. Unfortunately, my expectations were not met. The program consists of five-hour group sessions, five days a week, focusing on strategies for managing depression and anxiety. Supplemental activities include video presentations and larger group exercises. However, participants are not permitted to discuss past traumas or share detailed personal experiences, and conversations about substance abuse or suicidal ideation are discouraged, despite being addressed daily. The staff comprises a social worker, counselor, and medical doctor, with whom participants meet twice during the ten-day program. Regrettably, my counselor compromised patient confidentiality by disclosing another patient's health information, which I reported to the director and was dismissed as a 'misunderstanding.' The first week was overwhelming, and I experienced crises on multiple days. The counselor's response was to suggest I discharge myself from the program, which was not only unhelpful but also dismissive. I persisted, and the second week showed some improvement. It is challenging to find effective mental health support, and trust is a significant barrier. If genuine help is what you seek, I would not recommend this program.”

“This program completely changed my life and made me a happier person. The information taught is generalized to fit everyone's mental health issues and it is very focused on group work and practicing the skills you are taught. If you aren't willing to "buy in" it won't work, a self-fulfilling prophecy. I tend to be very analytical and need something tangible in order to believe in it, so buying in was difficult but necessary. The rules may be strict but they are in place to protect the safety and mental health of everyone around you. It is not a program intended to deal with your traumas or the causes of your mental illness, but instead there to help stabilize you and teach you coping skills that will be beneficial to you for your whole life. I went from a very sad, depressed person with no motivation to do anything who could barely force myself to get out of bed in the morning to a woman who has more energy, motivation, and a better outlook on life. I cannot thank the staff more for everything and the people in my group were amazing and all intent on recovery, which is the only way it will work.”

“It is a 10 day program that runs Monday to Friday from 8:30-3:00. You will sit in a classroom for 5 hours a day with a group of 12 people. You will study a textbook of general, simplified information about behavioral problems and coping skills. You will have access to a therapist, a nurse practitioner (to prescribe medication), and a social worker. But you will only see these people once or twice during the program. If you need transportation, they will have cab pick you up and drop you off for free. **IF YOU MISS MORE THAN 2 DAYS, YOU WILL BE KICKED OUT - EVEN IF YOU ARE SICK.**”