Collaborative care
Working together to support the best possible outcomes
At Mental Health Systems, we believe clients benefit most when providers work together collaboratively.
Mental health care is rarely one-size-fits-all, and many clients already have trusted therapists involved in their care. Our goal is to strengthen support through specialized DBT and trauma treatment.
For most MHS programs, clients are able to continue working with their outside individual therapist while participating in group DBT treatment at MHS. The primary exception to this is our State-Certified Adherent DBT program. Due to requirements by the state, individual therapy must happen at the same agency as group therapy.
Supporting clients alongside their individual therapist
DBT works especially well as part of a collaborative treatment approach.
In most cases:
- Outside therapists continue focusing on individual therapy goals
- MHS provides structured DBT skills training and group programming
- Providers work together to support consistency and progress
This approach allows clients to benefit from both:
- Ongoing individual therapy
- Intensive, skills-based DBT programming
A team-based approach to care
When appropriate and authorized through a Release of Information, our clinicians collaborate with outside providers to help coordinate care and improve continuity.
Collaboration may include:
- Sharing treatment recommendations
- Coordinating care plans
- Discussing progress and challenges
- Supporting transitions between levels of care
- Helping reinforce DBT skill use across settings
We value the expertise and relationships outside providers bring to a client’s care and view treatment as a shared effort focused on helping the client succeed.
Helping clients access additional support when needed
We also recognize that some clients may need services beyond what MHS provides directly.
When appropriate, we may refer clients to outside organizations and providers for additional or alternative services such as:
- Psychiatry and medication management
- Specialty individual therapy
- Psychological testing
- Higher levels of care
- Community-based services
- Substance use treatment
- Family or specialized support services
Our goal is always to help clients access the most appropriate level of care and support for their individual needs.
Focused on the whole person
At MHS, collaborative care means looking beyond a single program or provider.
We believe clients benefit when treatment feels connected, coordinated, and supportive across the different areas of their lives.
By working together with therapists, families, schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations, we help create a stronger support system focused on long-term growth, stability, and meaningful progress.
If you have a client who can benefit from our services, you can contact us at Referrals@mhs-dbt.com.
