Levels of Mental Health Treatment

Mental health services include a continuum of care based on the individual needs of each person seeking care.  Treatment recommendations are based on several factors, including the presenting concerns, treatment history, severity of symptoms, level of disruption in daily function, and risk to self or others.  The Counseling Center scope of services includes short-term individual counseling, often on a bi-weekly basis, and group counseling.  Counseling Center staff are available for support with treatment recommendations, referrals, and admission to off-campus resources when recommended or preferred by students.

Loyola University is committed to supporting students’ emotional well-being and seeking the level of mental health treatment that is most appropriate for their needs.  For support with academic or other campus-related needs that may arise due to seeking a higher level of care, please contact the Office of Undergraduate Studies at 410-617-5547 or the Office of Student Support and Wellness Promotion at 410-617-2928.

Ongoing Outpatient Therapy

Outpatient Therapy includes regular meetings with a licensed therapist in the community.  Outpatient therapy is appropriate for students who are experiencing stressors or life adjustments, mild or moderate depression, anxiety, or other mild mental health concerns.  More frequent meetings with an outpatient therapist may be recommended for someone who is experiencing increased distress. 

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An Intensive Outpatient Program typically provides a half day of treatment, three to five days a week.  A typical range of treatment is 2-6 weeks.  This often includes assessment, individual therapy, group therapy, and meetings with a psychiatrist and social worker. IOP is a good fit for students who have recently been discharged from inpatient treatment, completed a Partial Hospitalization Program, or struggle with moderate to severe depression, self-injury, suicidal ideation, or psychosis. IOP programs offer a range of scheduling options, with weekday, evening, in-person, and virtual options.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A PHP typically meets for the majority of the day Monday through Friday.  A typical range of treatment is 1-3 weeks.  These programs may include assessment, individual therapy, group therapy, and meetings with a psychiatrist and social worker.  PHPs are appropriate for students who have recently been discharged from inpatient treatment, experience significant depression, self-injury, suicidal ideation, or psychosis.  

Inpatient Care

Inpatient care is recommended for students who are experiencing active suicidal ideation, significant or life-threatening self-harm, significant depressive symptoms, or a break from reality due to psychosis, bipolar disorder, or substance use.  Inpatient treatment consists of assessment, individual, family, and group therapy, psychiatry, and social work.  An inpatient stay may range from a few nights to several weeks.  At the end of an inpatient stay, students are discharged into the community with appropriate support, which may include psychiatry and outpatient therapy, IOP, or PHP.  Prior to returning to campus, students and their families meet with Loyola’s Dean of Students to review treatment recommendations and academic and campus-related needs.