James E. VanZandt VA Medical Center
Overview
James E. VanZandt VA Medical Center is a mental health treatment center for people seeking treatment near Blair County. As part of their treatment modalities for recovery, James E. VanZandt VA Medical Center provides individual psychotherapy, couples/family therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy during treatment. James E. VanZandt VA Medical Center is located in Altoona, Pennsylvania, accepting cash or self-payment for treatment.
James E. VanZandt VA Medical Center at a Glance
Payment Options
- Cash or self-payment
- Private health insurance
- Federal military insurance (e.g., TRICARE)
- U.S. Department of VA funds
- Aetna
Assessments
- Screening for tobacco use
- Comprehensive mental health assessment
- Comprehensive substance use assessment
- Interim services for clients
- Outreach to persons in the community
Age Groups
- Young adults
- Adults
- Seniors
Ancillary Services
- Assertive community treatment
- Case management service
- Court-ordered outpatient treatment
- Diet and exercise counseling
- Education services
Accreditations
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF):
CARF accreditation is a globally recognized certification for rehabilitation and human service organizations. It signifies that an organization meets high-quality standards and is committed to providing top-level care. Achieving CARF accreditation involves a rigorous evaluation process, including on-site surveys. This accreditation enhances an organization's reputation, instills trust in clients and funders, and encourages ongoing excellence in the field.
The Joint Commission:
The Joint Commission, previously known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehabilitation organizations and programs. Established in 1951, its mission is to enhance the quality of patient care and showcase excellence in healthcare delivery.
Registration: 4583
Treatment At James E. VanZandt VA Medical Center
Conditions Treated
Mental health treatment:
Mental health treatment involves various therapies and support services provided by licensed professionals to address mental health issues. These interventions, which can include therapy, medication, and holistic approaches, aim to enhance well-being, improve coping, and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives. It's personalized, comprehensive care for mental health challenges.
Alcoholism:
Alcohol addiction is when a person becomes physically and mentally dependent on alcohol, leading to mood swings, impulsive actions, intense cravings, and withdrawal symptoms. Treatment includes supervised detox, therapy, and support groups. It's important to note that rehabilitation doesn't "cure" alcoholism, but it helps individuals better manage their addiction, regain their ability to function in daily life, and improve their overall well-being.
Substance use treatment:
Substance use rehabilitation represents a holistic treatment strategy tailored to aid individuals grappling with drug or alcohol addiction. This comprehensive rehabilitation method encompasses two key aspects: first, addressing the physical dependency, often commencing with detoxification, and second, tackling the psychological triggers through a range of therapeutic techniques. The ultimate aim is to empower individuals to attain and sustain sobriety while providing them with the necessary skills and coping mechanisms to successfully reintegrate into society and lead a life free from substance abuse.
Co-occurring Disorders:
Dual-diagnosis rehabilitation centers usually offer the most suitable approach for addressing concurrent mental health and substance abuse conditions. Within these facilities, a team of medical and behavioral professionals is typically assembled, employing diverse interventions and cultivating an optimal therapeutic environment to enable you to attain and maintain lasting recovery. The treatment regimen often encompasses evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, complemented by recovery support gatherings, 12-step program facilitation, skills development, and group therapy.
Levels Of Care
Outpatient:
Outpatient treatment at rehab centers provides adaptable therapy schedules, usually spanning 1-3 hours weekly, enabling participants to maintain their everyday routines while undergoing treatment. On the other hand, intensive outpatient programs require a more dedicated time investment, frequently around 9-15 hours a week, delivering a deeper therapeutic experience without the commitment of inpatient residency.
Outpatient detoxification:
Outpatient Detoxification refers to a medical process where individuals with substance dependence are systematically and safely withdrawn from those substances under medical supervision, while not being admitted to a hospital or inpatient facility. This approach allows patients to detoxify from drugs or alcohol in a less restrictive environment, often enabling them to maintain certain daily responsibilities such as work or family commitments. Close monitoring, medications, counseling, and support are provided to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.
Outpatient methadone/buprenorphine or naltrexone treatment:
Naltrexone, an FDA-sanctioned medication, is employed to address both opioid and alcohol dependencies. It aids in curbing cravings and warding off relapses, facilitating a smoother recovery process. It's available as a daily pill (brands include ReVia and Depade) or as a monthly injection (brand name Vivitrol). Prior to commencing naltrexone, patients should be free of any illicit opioids or opioid medicines for a duration of 7-10 days, including methadone.
Intensive outpatient treatment:
IOP, or Intensive Outpatient, is a structured level of care for addiction, mental health, or other conditions. Unlike inpatient care, it allows individuals live at home and maintain daily responsibilities. They attend multiple weekly sessions totaling 9-20 hours, including individual and group therapy, family counseling, and skill-building classes for symptom management and relapse prevention.
Regular outpatient treatment:
Regular Outpatient Treatment typically involves scheduled therapy sessions that occur on a part-time basis, allowing individuals to receive the necessary support and guidance while maintaining their daily routines. These outpatient sessions are generally held multiple times a week, with the exact frequency tailored to the individual's needs and progress. The number of sessions per week can vary, but it commonly ranges from two to five sessions, providing a flexible and effective approach to addiction recovery and mental health treatment.
Aftercare:
Finishing a drug or alcohol rehab program is just the beginning of the recovery journey. Aftercare focuses on establishing a long-term recovery plan, which encompasses continuous support. This might involve options such as residing in sober living homes or halfway houses, receiving career guidance, and connecting the individual with community support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
Treatment Modalities
Individual psychotherapy:
Individual therapy is a one-on-one therapeutic interaction between a therapist and a client to address personal challenges, foster self-awareness, and promote mental, emotional, and behavioral growth. This setting provides a confidential and supportive environment for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, identify goals, and develop coping strategies. Individual therapy can be beneficial for a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, and life transitions.
Couples/family therapy:
Couples Therapy in rehab helps partners facing addiction recovery to strengthen their relationship. Expert therapists guide couples in addressing substance-related challenges, fostering trust, and enhancing communication, enhancing their chances of lasting recovery together.
Cognitive behavioral therapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a evidence-based psychotherapeutic approach that aims to address dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and cognitions through a goal-oriented, systematic process. It involves identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and beliefs and replacing them with more constructive ways of thinking and behaving. CBT is commonly used to treat a variety of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and phobias.
Dialectical behavior therapy:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioral therapeutic approach primarily to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder. It combines standard cognitive-behavioral techniques with distress tolerance, acceptance, and mindfulness concepts. DBT emphasizes the balance between accepting and changing behaviors, aiming to help patients build life skills, regulate emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships. It has since been adapted for and shown effectiveness in treating a variety of other mental health conditions.
Integrated Mental and Substance Use Disorder treatment:
Integrated Mental and Substance Use Disorder treatment is a comprehensive approach to treating individuals with both mental health and substance use disorders. It aims to address both conditions simultaneously through a coordinated and integrated approach. The goal is to improve overall well-being and reduce the risk of relapse.
Telemedicine/telehealth therapy:
Telehealth provides a secure and handy way to access behavioral health care from your home. It eliminates the need for travel, time off work, or organizing childcare. A range of services, including individual therapy, group sessions, and monitoring for anxiety and depression, are available remotely. Rest assured, telehealth video sessions are not recorded, ensuring your information remains as confidential as in-person consultations.
Substance use disorder counseling:
Substance use disorder counseling treatment modalities refer to various approaches and methods used in the counseling and treatment of individuals with substance use problems. This can include individual therapy, group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, family therapy, and 12-step programs. The goal is to help the individual overcome their substance use, develop healthy coping skills, and lead a fulfilling life in recovery.
Trauma-related counseling:
Trauma therapy addresses the deep-seated emotional and psychological wounds often linked with substance abuse disorders. Recognizing that traumatic experiences can be a root cause or a significant contributing factor to substance addiction, this therapeutic approach seeks to help individuals understand, process, and heal from their traumas. Doing so fosters emotional healing and bolsters the individual's chances of long-term recovery from addiction. Integrating trauma-informed care into addiction treatment ensures a comprehensive approach that addresses substance abuse's symptoms and underlying causes.
Smoking/vaping/tobacco cessation counseling:
Tobacco cessation counseling encompasses discussions with a counselor regarding your tobacco or vape usage and its integration into your daily routine, with the goal of devising a strategy to quit. This service caters to individuals desiring to quit tobacco, offering interventions like behavioral support or counseling in groups or one-on-one settings. The counseling sessions may range from brief encounters (under 5 minutes) to more intensive discussions (exceeding 10 minutes) and may necessitate multiple sessions.
Treatment for gambling disorder:
Gambling Disorder is a behavioral addiction marked by an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite harmful consequences. Treatment typically combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, group support like Gamblers Anonymous, and occasionally medications for co-existing mental health issues. The goal is to help individuals regain control and prevent future compulsive behaviors.
Group counseling:
Group Counseling is a therapeutic approach where individuals come together under the guidance of a trained counselor to share experiences, offer support, and gain insights. This collective format promotes mutual understanding and growth, allowing participants to learn from one another's perspectives and challenges.
Family counseling:
Studies consistently show that the likelihood of sustainable recovery increases when family members are involved in rehab and substance abuse treatment. Genetic elements might influence susceptibility to drug and alcohol dependence and mental health challenges. Family interactions frequently contribute to addiction triggers. However, with the right education, family members can become pivotal support pillars during rehabilitation.
Marital/couples counseling:
Marital/couples counseling treatment modalities refer to various therapeutic approaches used to help couples resolve conflicts, improve communication, and strengthen their relationship. These modalities can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, and integrative approaches. The goal of these treatments is to help couples identify and address underlying issues and develop healthy relationship dynamics.
12-step facilitation:
Recovery models grounded in 12-step programs prominently incorporate peer coaching, strongly emphasizing personal growth as the pathway to enduring sobriety. Regular participation in 12-step meetings, known for their anonymity, cost-free access, and daily availability, is encouraged. The 12 steps of recovery, anchored in spiritual principles, guide participants in unraveling the core issues of their addiction, taking accountability for their decisions, and coming to terms with aspects beyond their control. Chosen by the individuals themselves, sponsors offer personalized one-on-one mentorship, aiding in navigating through the recovery journey.
Intervention Services:
Intervention refers to organized efforts designed to guide individuals away from potentially harmful behaviors or decisions and towards healthier alternatives. Often used in the context of substance abuse or addiction, these services employ a structured approach where professionals, loved ones, and peers come together to confront the individual in a supportive manner, emphasizing the need for change and providing pathways for treatment or assistance. The goal is to break through denial, facilitate recognition of the problem, and initiate positive change.
Contingency management/motivational incentives:
Contingency management and motivational incentives are evidence-based treatment modalities used in addiction and behavioral health programs. Contingency management involves the use of rewards to reinforce positive behaviors and change negative behaviors, while motivational incentives provide incentives to engage in treatment and sustain recovery. Both approaches are designed to increase motivation and engagement in treatment and have been shown to be effective in promoting positive outcomes.
Motivational interviewing:
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered counseling approach designed to enhance an individual's intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. Through empathetic engagement and evoking personal reasons for change, MI helps individuals recognize the negative consequences of their substance use and empowers them to take steps toward recovery.
Anger management:
"Anger Management" refers to a set of therapeutic techniques and exercises that help individuals recognize the signs of their growing anger and take action to calm down and deal with situations in a constructive manner. It aims to reduce both emotional feelings and the physiological arousal that anger can cause, ensuring that anger does not lead to aggressive outbursts or other harmful actions. Individuals can navigate tense situations with more remarkable composure and control by understanding triggers and developing healthy coping strategies.
Community reinforcement plus vouchers:
Community Reinforcement + Vouchers is an evidence-based intervention strategy designed to treat substance use disorders. It combines behavioral therapy with a voucher-based system that rewards individuals for substance-free urine tests. This approach encourages individuals to reduce or abstain from drug use by emphasizing positive reinforcement, skill-building, and tangible incentives, fostering healthier life choices and improved community relations.
Relapse prevention:
The Relapse Prevention Model is a cognitive-behavioral approach designed to help individuals anticipate and effectively cope with potential challenges and high-risk situations that may lead to a return to undesired behaviors, often after a period of abstinence or behavior change. This model emphasizes the importance of recognizing early warning signs, developing coping strategies, and building self-efficacy to sustain positive change and avoid setbacks. Commonly used in addiction therapy, it can also be applied to other areas where behavior change is sought, such as weight management or anger control.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) is a psychotherapeutic technique aimed at alleviating distress associated with traumatic memories. It involves a structured eight-phase approach, during which the client recalls distressing images while receiving bilateral sensory input, such as side-to-side eye movements. Through this process, EMDR aids in the reprocessing of traumatic memories, potentially rendering them less distressing and allowing for improved mental health and functioning.
Abnormal involuntary movement scale:
The AIMS is a 12-point evaluation instrument that clinicians employ to assess the severity of dyskinesias, notably in the face, limbs, and torso, for patients on neuroleptic medications. It gauges the overall effect, the level of impairment, and the patient's awareness and distress about these involuntary movements. Frequently used in research on antipsychotic drugs to detect tardive dyskinesia, the AIMS is prized for its clear format and swift assessment, making it suitable for routine clinical examinations by trained professionals.
Treatment for other addiction disorder:
Treatment for other addiction disorders typically involve a combination of therapy and medication. This may include individual therapy, group therapy, and behavioral therapy. Medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms and reduce cravings. Additionally, support groups and aftercare programs can be beneficial in maintaining recovery and preventing relapse. The treatment modality should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and circumstances.
Ancillary Services
Languages
- Sign language services for the deaf and hard of hearing
Additional Services
- Pharmacotherapies administered during treatment
- Mentoring/peer support
- Breathalyzer or blood alcohol testing
Special Programs
- Clients with co-occurring mental and substance use disorders
- Veterans
- Active duty military
- Members of military families
- Criminal justice (other than DUI/DWI)/Forensic clients
Contact Information
DISCLAIMER: The facility name, logo and brand are the property and registered trademarks of James E. VanZandt VA Medical Center, and are being used for identification and informational purposes only. Use of these names, logos and brands shall not imply endorsement. BetterAddictionCare.com is not affiliated with or sponsored by James E. VanZandt VA Medical Center.
