Legislative changes in the late 1980s brought the concept of de-institutionalization to the doorstep of the mental health industry. Rather than restricting those suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and various types of depression in state facilities and county hospitals, the move was underway to integrate them back into the local community. Alternative Paths, Inc., a non-profit community mental health agency, was founded on July 1, 1989 to provide a variety of support programs designed to assist in this transition. Debra Beckstett, Executive Director of Alternative Paths graciously spent time with us explaining Alternative Paths' mission, services, and goals;
Alternative Paths, Inc. offers an array of support programs to adults with a severe mental illness. These services include counseling, case management, group work, diagnostic assessment, forensic services, and others. We provide 24 hour pre-screening and crisis services for any county resident that may be in danger to self or others. As an independent, non-profit corporation, we offer specialized treatment for disorders such as schizophrenia, manic-depression, psychotic disorders, and major depression. We receive a major part of our funding through a contract with the Medina County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Board and strive to provide services to all Medina County residents regardless of their ability to pay.
Our Diagnostic Assessment Service is designed to acquire accurate and descriptive information about a client or potential client's needs. Details relating to the client's social, emotional, family, and psychological background are assimilated into a descriptive diagnostic picture. This diagnostic summary is processed in a discussion with the client about the types of services that might be appropriate to their needs.
Through our Psychiatric Emergency Service program, we strive to create an environment that maximizes the potential for stabilization and the protection of dignity while recognizing our clients needs for comfort, support, and help at critical times in their lives. We provide 24 hour crisis intervention to any adult or child who may be at risk of harming themselves or others and our Emergency Service staff attempt to assist the person served in obtaining all services necessary to assess and stabilize their situation.
The Med/Somatic Department of Alternative Paths is responsible for the psychiatry and related medical services provide within the Agency. The department provides ongoing prescriptions for psychotropic medication, assesses the client's level of functioning, and provides support for life stresses. At times, the department provides monitoring of medication, coordination of services with other medical providers, and assistance in obtaining needed medication.
Our Social Recreational Program is designed to assist clients with severe mental disabilities in developing or enhancing the skills needed for successful re-integration into the community. Clients have the opportunity to learn about and participate in community events and promotes the positive use of leisure time. Staff assisted group outings not only allow clients to practice social skills in the community but they also promote healthy peer interaction.
We have a Counseling Program designed to offer time limited supportive counseling to assist clients in identifying their personal goals and plans for self improvement. Counseling may also be used as an educational tool to help individuals and/or their families understand the implications of mental illness and ways to better cope with symptoms and life stressors.
Alternative Paths provides an array of educational seminars and training for schools, police, courts, hospitals, and other community entities. The topics may include, but are not limited to, information about our services, suicide, forensic services, mental illness, stress management, and psychotropic medications.
We accept private and group insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and private pay. As insurance doesn't always provide full coverage for mental health services, we assess each client's ability to pay and, when it's available, help them apply for state and federal funds to defer some of the cost of our services. In addition, we utilize the Medina County sliding fee scale to ensure our services are available to all regardless of their ability to pay.
Throughout my thirty year career in the mental health industry, one of my goals has been to encourage the best and the brightest mental health experts to return to the public sector. We work very hard to attract professionals who are dedicated and competent to ensure that the quality of care normally found in the private sector or university hospitals is available to people from all walks of life.
Alternative Paths, Inc. provides seamless mental health services throughout Medina County. For more information or to speak with a counselor, call Alternative Paths, Inc. today!
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