Mental Health Treatment Levels of Care at The Lakes
Understanding Mental Health Levels of Care
When it comes to mental health, the right level of care can make all the difference. Each person’s experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges is unique, and so is the support they need.
At The Lakes, we offer multiple levels of mental health treatment that meet clients where they are, whether they’re taking their first step toward healing or continuing progress after more intensive care.
Our mental health levels of care are designed to help clients stabilize, rebuild, and maintain wellness in real life, not apart from it. Each program is led by experienced clinicians who combine evidence-based therapies with compassionate, in-person support.
Located in Lakeland, Florida within an hour of both Tampa and Orlando, The Lakes provides an environment that’s calm, private, and restorative—an ideal space to focus on recovery and growth.
Contact our admissions team to find the mental health treatment level that’s right for you or a loved one.
Mental Health Levels of Care
01
When someone is in a mental health crisis, the first priority is safety and stability. The Lakes helps coordinate placement with trusted hospitals and crisis stabilization units throughout Florida for individuals who need short-term, 24-hour support. This type of care is designed to help someone through intense emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or sudden loss of control in a secure environment.
While The Lakes does not provide inpatient crisis care on site, our team stays closely involved throughout the process. We make sure clients and families understand what’s happening, communicate with the facility providing care, and remain available for ongoing support. Once the person is stable, we help arrange a smooth transition into one of our outpatient mental health programs. Our goal is to make sure no one faces a crisis alone and that every step forward feels safe and supported.
02
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our Mental Health PHP offers the most structured level of outpatient care at The Lakes. It’s a full-day program designed for clients who need the intensity of inpatient care, but don’t require an overnight stay. Each day includes a blend of individual and group therapy, medication management, and holistic activities like mindfulness and art therapy. This level of care helps clients stabilize symptoms, practice emotional regulation, and regain a sense of control in a supportive setting.
PHP is often the next step after a residential treatment or crisis placement. It provides the consistency and clinical oversight needed to maintain progress while allowing clients to return home in the evenings. The Lakes’ team guides each person through a personalized treatment plan, helping them rebuild confidence, routine, and hope for lasting wellness.
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Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
The Mental Health IOP at The Lakes is designed for people who are ready to keep healing while resuming daily life. It offers a structured schedule of therapy several days a week, combining individual sessions, small-group support, and practical skill-building. Clients work on managing symptoms, strengthening relationships, and developing tools to handle stress more effectively.
IOP is a flexible yet focused option for those transitioning from higher levels of care or anyone needing extra support to maintain emotional stability. The Lakes’ clinicians and therapists create a comfortable, collaborative environment where clients can talk openly, set realistic goals, and feel genuinely understood. It’s treatment that fits real life—helping people move forward with more balance, self-awareness, and confidence each day.
Mental Health Conditions We Treat
At The Lakes, we provide care for a wide range of mental health concerns, using evidence-based approaches and compassionate support to help clients find lasting stability. Each condition is treated through an individualized plan that may include group or individual therapy, medication, and holistic care.
Depression
Our depression treatment helps clients move beyond persistent sadness, fatigue, and loss of motivation through supportive, evidence-based care. Each plan focuses on restoring energy, hope, and a stronger connection to everyday life.
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Anxiety Disorders
We help clients understand how anxiety affects both mind and body while developing healthy ways to manage worry, panic, and fear. With therapy and coping tools, clients learn to feel calmer, more grounded, and in control.
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Trauma and PTSD
Our trauma-informed care provides a safe space to process painful experiences and reduce symptoms of hypervigilance, flashbacks, or avoidance. Clients rebuild trust in themselves and regain a sense of stability and safety over time.
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Bipolar Disorder
Treatment focuses on regulating mood changes and maintaining balance between periods of depression and elevated energy. Through therapy and structured routines, clients learn to manage symptoms and build long-term stability.
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OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)
Our clinicians use proven techniques to help reduce intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors that disrupt daily life. Clients gain practical strategies to manage anxiety and regain a sense of control and confidence.
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Personality Disorders & BPD
We use evidence-based approaches like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients understand emotions and create healthier relationships. Over time, they build stronger self-awareness and learn ways to respond rather than react.
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ADHD and Neurodivergent Presentations
Our programs support clients in understanding how their brains work and in developing systems that enhance focus, organization, and self-esteem. Treatment emphasizes strengths while addressing emotional and behavioral challenges with compassion.
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Perinatal and Postpartum
We offer therapy for parents experiencing emotional distress before or after childbirth, including depression, anxiety, or feelings of overwhelm. Care focuses on emotional recovery, self-compassion, and reconnecting with a sense of balance.
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Grief Counseling
Grief therapy helps clients process loss at their own pace and in their own way, without judgment or pressure. Together, we work to honor what’s been lost while finding meaning and connection in the present.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Our Mental Health Levels of Care
What are mental health levels of care?
Mental health levels of care refer to the different stages of treatment support available, from immediate stabilization to ongoing therapy. At The Lakes, we offer Crisis Management Placement, Partial Hospitalization (PHP), and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) to match each person’s needs and level of stability. These programs are part of a comprehensive behavioral health continuum that helps clients move forward at a safe and sustainable pace.
What is Crisis Management Placement?
Crisis Management Placement connects individuals experiencing severe emotional distress or loss of control with short-term, 24-hour inpatient hospitalization through trusted facilities across Florida. While The Lakes doesn’t provide inpatient services directly, we coordinate with licensed providers to ensure clients receive immediate stabilization and a smooth transition back into outpatient treatment once they’re ready.
How do I know which level of care is right for me?
Our admissions team completes a confidential clinical assessment to determine the best fit based on your symptoms, history, and goals. Someone who has recently experienced a crisis may benefit from PHP’s structure, while others may start with IOP if they need support alongside work or family life. We help guide every client toward the right balance of structure, flexibility, and clinical care.
Can I work or attend school during treatment?
Yes. The Lakes’ Intensive Outpatient Program allows clients to keep up with school, work, or family responsibilities while receiving several hours of therapy each week. PHP requires a larger daytime commitment but still allows you to return home each evening. Both programs are designed to support real-life recovery rather than separating you from it.
Do you offer care for families or loved ones?
Yes. Mental health challenges often affect the entire family, not just the individual. That’s why our programs include opportunities for family therapy, communication support, and education about the recovery process. This helps loved ones build understanding, reduce tension, and strengthen the support system at home.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. The Lakes accepts most insurance plans and offers private-pay options for all levels of care. Our admissions team can verify your insurance coverage, explain what’s included, and help you understand your options before beginning treatment. We’re committed to making access to quality mental health care as simple and transparent as possible.
