- At THE BALANCE, admission into any treatment program is guided by careful clinical assessment and ethical responsibility.
- We do not believe that every individual, condition, or situation is suited to our model of care.
- Program are offered only when there is a reasonable clinical basis to believe that the setting, level of structure, and therapeutic approach are appropriate.
At THE BALANCE, admission into any treatment program is guided by careful clinical assessment and ethical responsibility.
We do not believe that every individual, condition, or situation is suited to our model of care. Program are offered only when there is a reasonable clinical basis to believe that the setting, level of structure, and therapeutic approach are appropriate. Suitability protects both the individual and the integrity of care.
WHY SUITABILITY MATTERS
Treatment that is poorly matched to an individual’s needs can be ineffective or harmful. Suitability assessment ensures that:
- the level of care is appropriate
- risks are understood and managed
- expectations are realistic
- boundaries are clear
- treatment goals are achievable within the program framework
Responsible admission is a clinical decision, not a commercial one.
THE ASSESSMENT PROCESS
Program suitability is determined through a structured assessment process. This may include:
- clinical interviews
- review of mental health history
- consideration of trauma exposure and stress load
- evaluation of substance-related risks
- medical and psychiatric information where relevant
- understanding of personal, family, and professional context
Assessment is collaborative, confidential, and thorough.
FACTORS CONSIDERED IN PROGRAM PLACEMENT
Placement decisions may take into account:
- psychological and psychiatric presentation
- trauma history and regulation capacity
- substance use patterns and withdrawal risk
- medical stability and complexity
- readiness for engagement
- capacity to participate in a residential or outpatient setting
- need for structure, containment, or autonomy
No single factor determines suitability.
CLINICAL BOUNDARIES & LIMITATIONS
Not all presentations are appropriate for treatment at THE BALANCE. In some cases:
- a higher level of medical or psychiatric containment may be required
- a different institutional setting may be more appropriate
- timing may not yet be suitable for engagement
- alternative or preparatory care may be recommended
These decisions are communicated openly and respectfully.
PROGRAM-SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS
Each program has distinct entry criteria. For example:
- residential care requires capacity for structured engagement
- medical stabilisation requires identifiable clinical indication
- outpatient care requires sufficient stability and autonomy
Program selection is reviewed continuously as care progresses.
CONSENT, EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITY
Admission requires informed consent and shared understanding. This includes clarity around:
- the scope and limits of care
- roles and responsibilities
- confidentiality and boundaries
- participation requirements
- review and transition processes
Clear expectations support trust and engagement.
REFERRALS & PROFESSIONAL COLLABORATION
Suitability assessment may involve collaboration with:
- referring clinicians
- medical professionals
- family members (with consent)
- existing treatment providers
Collaboration supports continuity and safety.
WHEN ADMISSION IS NOT RECOMMENDED
When admission is not advised, support may include:
- explanation of clinical reasoning
- guidance toward more appropriate services
- coordination with external providers where possible
Declining admission is part of ethical care.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is admission guaranteed after inquiry?
No. Admission follows assessment and confirmation of suitability.
Can program placement change over time?
Yes. Placement is reviewed and adjusted as needs evolve.
What if the program is not suitable after admission?
Care plans are reviewed, and appropriate transitions are discussed responsibly.
