What are RTFs?
Aurora House, an RTF, provides residential treatment for up to sixteen adults aged 18 and over diagnosed with severe and persistent behavioral health disorders. Services include assessment, psychiatric evaluation, medication monitoring, case management, counseling, groups, mental health education, crisis resolution, and skills training regarding activities of daily living. The program focuses on helping residents reach increasing recovery levels to transition into the community successfully.
Who do RTFs serve?
Individuals discharging from psychiatric hospital inpatient units receive priority placement for admission into Aurora House. Aurora House also serves individuals unable to live independently in the community who require a higher level of care, support, and structure for future success.
Approach to care
An individual treatment plan is developed for each resident that addresses the specific goals to help them develop the skills necessary to transition successfully to independent living in the community. Individuals needing substance abuse treatment are referred to outpatient Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment programs to further enhance their chance of success at the RTF and, later, in the community. Collaboration with referral sources, SUD providers, and programs accepting discharging clients from the facility is essential. The length of stay varies but is typically from 4 – 12 months. The program is staffed by mental health technicians, a master’s level clinician, a nurse, and a psychiatric provider.
Goals of RTFs
A successful stay at Aurora House looks like clients working with the treatment team to develop strategies for managing their behavioral health symptoms, enhancing their socialization skills, and helping them develop the skills needed to reside independently in the community upon discharge.