What are diversion services?

Diversion services are specialized programs designed to address the unique needs of individuals with a history of severe and persistent mental illness, as well as those who have experienced long-term or multiple hospitalizations.

As a community-based alternative to state hospital services, our primary goal is to create a safe and nurturing residential environment where individuals can enhance their emotional well-being, build stronger relationships and develop essential daily living skills. Family members and significant individuals are actively involved in ongoing treatment, contributing to a holistic approach that fosters healing and growth.

Through our comprehensive approach, we strive to empower individuals to achieve greater independence and improve their overall quality of life.

Who is a candidate for diversion services?

To be eligible for diversion services, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• receive a referral from Lancaster County Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (BH/DS)
• be at least 18 years of age
• have a chronic psychiatric illness and a history of long-term hospitalization or have been identified by the Lebanon County MH/ID/EI Program (Mental Health/Intellectual Disabilities/Early Intervention)
• not be a danger to oneself or others and agree to a safety contract in the event of harmful thoughts towards oneself or others
• be receptive to medication education and participation
• be willing to address any current drug or alcohol issues while in the program
• agree to maintain a therapeutic alliance necessary to benefit from the program's environment and adhere to program guidelines
• have had a complete physical examination within the first five days of admission
• have the ability to self-administer medications

What to expect during treatment

If you choose diversion services, you can expect the following:

Before treatment, you’ll be referred by Lancaster County BHDS and will need to meet the admission criteria. The admissions process will then be completed, which includes a review of your case by the diversion program.

During treatment, you’ll receive:

• supportive counseling
• therapy of varying modalities
• educational programs
• behavioral management
• crisis intervention

You’ll also develop community reintegration skills, such as independent living, social and leisure skills. You’ll meet with the program psychiatrist once a week for treatment review and medication management. A program nurse will oversee the administration of medications and your overall medical management.

Planning for your discharge will begin at the time of admission, and you will be expected to be an active participant in the process. The goal of the program is to help you become self-sufficient in a more independent setting. You’ll be expected to develop a network of support and services to successfully transition from the program to a less restrictive setting.

Your readiness for discharge will be based on:

• your mental stability
• medication compliance
• degree of self-initiative
• access to and utilization of adequate community support

Benefits of diversion services

• Personalized treatment plans: Our team of experienced behavioral health professionals develops a customized treatment plan for each resident, ensuring their unique needs and goals are met.
• Supportive environment: We provide a safe and supportive home-like environment where residents can focus on their recovery without the stress and anxiety of a traditional hospital setting.
• Emphasis on independent living: Our program emphasizes the development of independent living skills, such as medication management, budgeting and household chores, preparing residents for a successful transition back into the community.