- Admission to THE BALANCE follows a clear, deliberate process designed to provide clarity, safety, and appropriate guidance from the first point of contact.
- Each step exists to ensure that care is suitable, responsible, and aligned with the individual's needs and circumstances.
- 1: CONFIDENTIAL INITIAL CONVERSATION Admission begins with a private and confidential conversation.
Admission to THE BALANCE follows a clear, deliberate process designed to provide clarity, safety, and appropriate guidance from the first point of contact. The process is structured, but never rushed. Each step exists to ensure that care is suitable, responsible, and aligned with the individual’s needs and circumstances.
Admission is not automatic. It is a considered clinical decision.
STEP 1: CONFIDENTIAL INITIAL CONVERSATION
Admission begins with a private and confidential conversation. This initial discussion allows us to understand the situation in context, including:
- Current concerns and challenges
- Relevant mental health or substance-related history
- Safety considerations and urgency
- Personal, professional, or family context
The purpose of this step is to listen carefully and establish whether further assessment is appropriate. There is no expectation to commit or proceed at this stage.
STEP 2: CLINICAL REVIEW & SUITABILITY ASSESSMENT
Where appropriate, relevant medical or therapeutic information may be reviewed. This step helps determine:
- Clinical suitability for our programs
- Level of complexity and support required
- Potential risks or contraindications
- Whether THE BALANCE is the right setting
Not all situations are suitable for the same type of care. Where appropriate, alternative recommendations may be discussed.
STEP 3: PROGRAM & ENVIRONMENT RECOMMENDATION
If admission is considered appropriate, we outline a recommended care approach. This may include:
- Suggested treatment setting
- Level of intensity and structure
- Expected duration (where possible)
- Rationale behind the recommendation
Recommendations are explained transparently and without obligation.
STEP 4: DISCREET LOGISTICAL COORDINATION
Once a decision to proceed has been made, practical arrangements are coordinated with care and discretion. This may involve:
- Travel and arrival planning
- Coordination with representatives or family
- Communication protocols
- Privacy and scheduling considerations
Logistics are handled quietly and professionally to minimise unnecessary exposure or stress.
STEP 5: ASSESSMENT ON ARRIVAL
Admission formally begins with a comprehensive assessment on arrival. This assessment may include:
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Medical review
- Psychological assessment
- Nutritional and physiological review
Findings from this assessment inform the integrated treatment plan and guide next steps.
ONGOING REVIEW & ADAPTATION
Admission is not a one-time decision. Care is reviewed continuously, and the approach may evolve as understanding deepens and circumstances change. Flexibility within structure is essential.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need a referral to begin admission?
No. Individuals, families, or representatives may initiate contact directly.
What if the situation is urgent?
Safety is prioritized. We will guide next steps responsibly and promptly.
Can admission be delayed or scheduled later?
Yes. Timing is discussed openly and considered carefully.
Is admission guaranteed after the first conversation?
No. Admission depends on suitability, safety, and appropriateness.
A NOTE ON RESPONSIBILITY
Admission marks the beginning of a professional relationship grounded in trust, clarity, and responsibility. Our role is not to persuade, but to guide — including when that guidance means advising against admission.
