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Whole-Person Care Starts at Intake
An Atracare Mental Health conversation with Therapist Marie Hudson
“If someone’s needs are met, they stand a better chance—not only in mental health treatment, but also in substance use disorder treatment.”
Quick Summary
- What we do first: A thorough, whole-person intake—medical history, daily health habits, and community connection—not just symptoms.
- Why it matters: When sleep, food, safety, transportation, and support needs are addressed, outcomes improve for both mental health and substance use disorder (SUD).
- Helpful resource: The American Psychiatric Association (APA) offers a clear, patient-friendly explainer on SUD.
What We Assess (Beyond Symptoms)
At Atracare, your first visit focuses on you, not just a diagnosis. Marie Hudson explains the core elements of our intake:
- Medical history & conditions — current/past conditions, medications, allergies, and your care team.
- Daily health basics — sleep, nutrition, movement, and stress load (mind and body heal together).
- Safety & stability — housing, transportation, finances, childcare, and immediate risks.
- Social connection — family, friends, peer groups, faith communities, and other supports.
- Community belonging — are you plugged into a group that gives you purpose and accountability?
- Barriers & resources — if you’re not connected, what can we provide or refer so needs get met?
This is person-centered care: your plan is built around your goals, culture, strengths, and pace—never one-size-fits-all.
What Is a Substance Use Disorder?
SUD is a medical condition characterized by continued use of a substance despite harmful consequences, often with cravings and disruptions to daily life. Diagnosis follows established clinical criteria and can range in severity (mild, moderate, severe). Understanding SUD as treatable—not a moral failing—shapes compassionate, integrated care from day one.
For more info about SUD please clink: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/addiction-substance-use-disorders/what-is-a-substance-use-disorder
Why Whole-Person Intake Improves Outcomes
- Needs met → engagement up. Solving for transportation, food, or sleep helps people show up and benefit from care.
- Co-occurring focus. Many patients face both mental health and substance-related challenges; addressing them together is more effective.
- Community connection = staying power. Belonging boosts motivation, resiliency, and relapse prevention.
What Happens After Intake
- Collaborative care plan — clear goals, check-ins, and evidence-based therapies matched to your needs.
- Warm referrals — introductions to local resources and peer/faith/volunteer groups that fit your definition of community.
- Follow-through support — problem-solving around transportation and scheduling; telehealth when appropriate.
Your First Visit: What to Expect
- Conversation, not interrogation — share your story at your pace.
- Whole-person screening — medical, mental, and social factors reviewed together.
- Strengths & goals — define what “better” looks like for you.
- Next steps before you leave — appointments booked, referrals made, and a practical plan for the week ahead.
Services at Atracare Mental Health
- Individual therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and SUD support
- Co-occurring care integrating mental health and substance use treatment
- Family-informed strategies and communication skills
- Flexible access, including telehealth and timely scheduling
Care in Sussex County—365 Days a Year
Atracare bridges prevention and treatment across Mental Health, Primary Care, Pediatrics, Urgent Care, and Lactation Consulting—so you can get comprehensive help close to home.
Get seen. Get better. Get on your way.
Ready to start? Book a confidential appointment with Atracare Mental Health today.
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