Successful treatment hinges on many elements but none more important than the communication process which allows for an exchange of information to guide treatment decisions. At a follow-up appointment one can expect the following questions:

• What improvement has occurred with the disorder as a whole or with specific symptoms since your last visit?
• What concerns or problems need to be addressed during today’s visit?
• Are you keeping track of the names and dosages of the medications prescribed to you?
• How often do you miss or forget to take prescribed medications?
• Are you having any physical, psychological or emotional changes that might be side effects?

Additionally, patients are asked to complete self assessment instruments (Eg. PHQ9, GAD7 and SDS) prior to visits in order to more accurately gauge the level of illness during the intervening period between appointments.

Integrated Psychotherapy

Life Change Associates relies heavily on evidence-based therapies, in both individual and group formats, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
• Motivational Interviewing
• Interpersonal Therapy
• Solution-Focused Therapy
• Psychoeducation

Refills

• Need to be requested at the time of the office visit
• Are sent electronically to your pharmacy
• Are provided in sufficient supply to last a minimum of 2 weeks beyond the next recommended clinic visit
• Of controlled substances are made only during the clinic visit unless other arrangements have been made with Dr. Ravsten or your medication provider

Acute Hospitalization, Crisis Services and Numbers

• Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department for emergency assessment and services
• Acute inpatient stabilization: admission for emergent services to a behavioral health unit can be sought through the emergency rooms at Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello, Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls and St. Lukes in Twin Falls.
• SE Idaho Behavioral Crisis Center:  this is an adult 24 hour crisis center designed to assess, support, and refer individuals suffering from a mental health and/or substance use related crisis.  They are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.  They can be contacted at (208) 909-5177.
• Crisis numbers:
  • Depression Hotline: 1(800) 784-2433
  • National Suicide Help Line: 1(800) 273-TALK
  • Idaho Care Line: 1(800) 926-2588 – press 8