Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center Admissions FAQs
Our Admissions and Clinical teams work hand-in-hand to ensure a smooth transition into treatment. Below are some FAQs on the admissions process:
Q: How do I reach Admissions to learn more about your program?
A: Please call (877) 958-9212 and a member of our team will be happy to speak in great detail about our program and, more importantly, gather information to ensure it’s a good fit from the patient’s side. Our co-founders Jaime Blaustein and Ben Brafman are often able to get on a Zoom to connect with families.
Q: How do I determine if I’m qualified for Admission?
A: Our Admissions team will gather information through a pre-admission assessment. Our clinical team will quickly render a decision on clinical approval and may ask to speak to the patient and support members. Any financial responsibilities will be articulated around the same time. Sylvia Brafman is sensitive to the urgent need to get help at times and will do our best to gather information promptly and efficiently in order to get the identified patient the help they need. If Sylvia Brafman is not the best fit, we are happy to provide a referral to a trusted facility that may be a better option.
Q: What are the costs?
A: Sylvia Brafman accepts a number of insurances with out-of-network benefits. Please call admissions and we can quickly verify what any patient responsibility may look like. Outside of clinical, medical and psychiatric care, there may be small fees for other expenses. We are extremely transparent with our financial policy and are happy to walk you through it in great detail and in writing.
Q: What do I need to bring?
A: We suggest patients pack as if they are going on a week-long vacation to Florida. Nothing is truly needed beyond clothes, any creature comforts / sentimental items, a bathing suit, and any legal medication currently being prescribed. Our staff is available to obtain items for patients as needed.
Q: What type of communication with the “outside” is permitted?
A: Sylvia Brafman attempts to strike a balance between eliminating distractions and utilizing one’s support system for conducive communication. After a 5 day “blackout period” where communication is primarily with the patient’s therapist, we gradually introduce greater access to communication through our Phase System whereby patients have an opportunity to gain increasing access to phones and technology through good faith efforts to work the program, complete assignments, etc. Please also see the Family Involvement page for additional color on this.
Q: Can I work while in your program?
A: It depends. At the PHP level of care, patients are fully focused on treatment. Those that seek career and/or educational guidance and progress may be eligible for our Career Launch program with our CEO. Once transitioning to our intensive outpatient program, patients may work outside of treatment hours.
Q: How will I get off work / school in order to attend?
A: We can provide detailed guidance on the rights you have and how to communicate with your employers / school, providing letters and documentation as needed. Our Case Management team assists with issues exactly like this while in treatment, and our Admissions team can walk you through that process.