What Admissions Looks
Like at The Lakes
Entering a treatment program can be a big decision. Our admissions process is designed to be as easy as possible and create an environment of compassion and reassurance.
Starting treatment can feel like a big step. Our admissions process is designed to be clear, compassionate, and as low-stress as possible so you can focus on getting help, not paperwork.
Whether you are calling for yourself or someone you care about, The Lakes admissions team will help you at each step of the process, answer your questions, and determine if The Lakes is the best option for you.
Who We Help
The Lakes is a treatment program that offers structured inpatient care to adults who experience any of the following:
- Mental illness such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and related disorders
- Mental illness with co-occurring substance use, where clients are using drugs or alcohol to cope
- Ongoing symptoms after a recent hospital stay or treatment in a crisis stabilization unit.
- Growing stress, mood swings, or issues in functioning that are impacting daily life
We are not an emergency room or an inpatient hospital. If someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, please call 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room before contacting us.
Once a person is assessed to be medically safe, our staff will assist you in planning for next steps into Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP) treatment, or higher levels of care when required.
What To Expect When You Call
Most admissions will begin with a phone call. The goal of the first conversation is to give you clarity and support. There is no obligation when you call.
When you contact The Lakes, you can expect our team to:
Listen first
When we receive your call, we will listen to your concerns about what you are experiencing. We will also inquire about the length of time you have experienced these problems, and what kind of treatment support you are looking for. You can share as much or as little as you are comfortable discussing.
01
Gather basic information
We will ask for contact details, any current diagnoses or medications, recent hospitalizations, and whether there is current substance use. This helps our clinical team understand what level of care might be appropriate.
02
Discuss levels of care
Based on the information you share with us about your situation, we will discuss different levels of care available at The Lakes, such as PHP, IOP, and outpatient services, and provide you with an overview of a typical day at each level.
03
Review insurance and payment
Our team will collect your insurance information, explain how benefits are verified, and talk about any expected out-of-pocket costs before you decide to move forward.
04
Clinical Assessment
and Next Steps
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STEP 1
If it is determined that The Lakes is a good fit for you, our staff will schedule you a clinical assessment. The clinical assessment will consist of a more detailed appointment with a licensed mental health professional to:
- Review your mental health and medical history
- Explore current symptoms and safety concerns
- Ask about substance use, if present
- Talk through your goals for treatment
STEP 2
From there, we will recommend a level of care and collaborate with you on a plan. Sometimes that means admission into one of our programs. In other cases, the safest or most helpful option might be:
- Placement in an inpatient psychiatric facility for immediate stabilization
- Referral to a medical detox program before starting care with us
- A different type of service that better matches your needs
Our priority is that you end up in the right place, even if that is not always The Lakes.
Paying for Treatment
at The Lakes
The Lakes works with many major insurance plans, and we know that figuring out coverage can feel overwhelming. During the admissions process, our team will take your insurance information, verify your benefits, and explain what your plan is likely to cover for PHP, IOP, or outpatient care. We will also talk through any deductibles, copays, or coinsurance in straightforward language so you know what to expect.
If you prefer to pay privately, we will walk you through those options as well and help you build a plan that fits the level of care recommended. The goal is simple: to be honest and clear about costs so there are no surprises once treatment begins and you can focus on getting support.
Start Your Admission Today
If you’re considering treatment for yourself or someone you care about, our team is here to make the first step feel easier. We’ll answer your questions, talk through what to expect, and help you understand whether The Lakes is the right fit.
Take the next step toward stability and support.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Lakes Admissions
How long does it take to get into a program?
Timing depends on your clinical needs, schedule, and current availability in our programs. In many cases, once assessment and insurance verification are complete, admission can happen relatively quickly. If there is a wait, we will be honest about timelines and offer guidance on how to stay supported in the meantime.
Do I need a formal diagnosis before I call?
No. Many people contact us because they are not sure what is going on, only that things are not improving. Part of the assessment process is helping clarify what you are experiencing and what type of care makes sense.
What if I am already working with a therapist or psychiatrist?
We often coordinate care with outside providers. With your permission, our team can collaborate with your existing therapist, psychiatrist, or primary care doctor to support a smoother transition into and out of our programs.
Can my family be involved in the admissions process?
Yes. With your consent, family members or trusted support people can join calls, attend parts of the assessment, and ask questions about treatment. We know that recovery often involves the whole support system.
What if you decide The Lakes is not the right fit for me?
If our clinical team believes you need a different level or type of care, we will explain why and help you find appropriate options. This may include crisis stabilization, inpatient hospitalization, medical detox, or community resources. Our commitment is to your safety and long-term wellbeing, even if that means referring you elsewhere.


