Program Overview

The MH IOP is a structured, time-limited service designed to provide a higher level of therapeutic support than standard outpatient care.

Services may include:

  • Group therapy (primary service modality)

  • Individual therapy sessions (as clinically indicated)

  • Family therapy and caregiver involvement (especially for adolescents)

  • Psychoeducation and skill-building interventions

  • Care coordination and discharge planning

Program intensity, frequency, and duration are individualized based on clinical need and ongoing assessment of progress and medical necessity.

Services are delivered by qualified mental health professionals practicing within their scope and under appropriate supervision, consistent with regulatory standards.

Our Treatment Approach

Kendall’s Independence and Developmental Services utilizes evidence-informed, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive interventions tailored to both adolescents and adults, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-informed skills

  • Trauma-informed care

  • Strengths-based and person-centered approaches

Core areas of focus include:

  • Emotional regulation and mood stabilization

  • Distress tolerance and coping skill development

  • Interpersonal effectiveness and communication

  • Problem-solving and decision-making

  • Building structure and routine in daily functioning

All services are delivered in a manner that respects the dignity, preferences, and autonomy of each individual.

For adolescents, caregiver participation is an essential component of treatment. For adults, involvement of natural supports is encouraged when appropriate and with consent.

Support system involvement may include:

  • Family therapy sessions

  • Participation in treatment planning

  • Education on supporting recovery and skill use

  • Coordination with identified supports

This collaborative approach promotes continuity of care and long-term stability.

Family and Support System Involvement

Safety and Clinical Oversight

The Kendall’s Independence and Developmental Services MH IOP maintains a strong focus on participant safety through:

  • Ongoing clinical assessment of risk (including suicidal ideation and self-harm)

  • Development and review of individualized safety plans

  • Use of crisis intervention and de-escalation strategies

  • Coordination with emergency services or higher levels of care when clinically indicated

The MH IOP is not a substitute for inpatient or emergency services. Individuals requiring a higher level of care will be referred appropriately.

Each participant receives a person-centered Individualized Service Plan (ISP) that:

  • Is developed collaboratively with the individual (and caregiver, when applicable)

  • Reflects identified strengths, needs, and goals

  • Includes measurable objectives and interventions

  • Is reviewed and updated regularly based on progress

All services are guided by medical necessity and individualized clinical need.

Individualized Treatment Planning

Care Coordination and Continuity of Care

We are committed to coordinated, integrated care. We collaborate with:

  • Outpatient therapists and psychiatric providers

  • Primary care providers

  • Schools, employers, and community supports (as appropriate and authorized)

Discharge planning begins at admission and focuses on step-down services, relapse prevention, and sustained recovery.

We operate in full compliance with:

  • Virginia DBHDS licensing regulations

  • DMAS service and documentation requirements

  • HIPAA privacy and confidentiality standards

  • Human rights and person-centered care principles

Our program maintains audit-ready documentation, qualified staffing, and service delivery practices aligned with regulatory expectations.

Commitment to Quality and Compliance

How to Get Started

Referrals may be made by healthcare providers, schools, community agencies, individuals, or family members.

All referrals are processed through a structured intake and assessment to determine clinical appropriateness for the MH IOP level of care.

Submit the brief form below; a member of our advisory team will respond within 24 hours.