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Ascend Program

as-cend: V. to go or move upward; rise; advance.

Ascend is an intensive outpatient program that was developed to help young women between the ages of 18 and 28 who are struggling to navigate the path from adolescence to young adulthood.

Program Description

To help clients achieve increased self-reliance, Ascend thoughtfully integrates individual, family, group and art therapy with DBT skills training, medication evaluation and management, and life skills training. Most treatment in Ascend will take place within a dynamic and cohesive peer group, and participation in the program is limited to 8 clients at a time to ensure that each client’s unique needs can be met. In addition, clients work with the Ascend Program Coordinator individually and as a group to explore academic, employment and volunteer opportunities. Clients can then actualize a plan that is consistent with the client’s unique short and long-term goals.

Family Involvement

Family involvement in Ascend is crucial to the client’s success. In addition to family therapy, parents participate in a monthly family support group. Additionally, the Program Coordinator contacts each family weekly to offer feedback from the treatment team and to closely track progress.

Intake and Admission

Prior to admission, the Intake Coordinator and Medical Director will conduct a thorough assessment to determine whether Ascend and this specific level of care is appropriate for the client. The Ascend intensive outpatient program does not participate with health insurance plans, however many health plans include benefits for out of network mental health treatment. In addition, many plans require pre-authorization for services. We strongly encourage families to research their health benefits prior to admission so that we can provide any necessary documentation for authorization.

Stages of Treatment

Once admitted, participation is voluntary and requires a minimum commitment of three months. Clients and their families gradually progress through three stages of treatment. Stage I, called Intensity, focuses on short and long-term goal identification, forming working alliances with the treatment team, and developing connections to peers in the program. Stage II, called Progress, emphasizes the implementation and monitoring of treatment goals. Stage III, called The Ascent, is characterized by the achievement of increased self-sufficiency. Clients in this stage gradually transition out of Ascend and back to their individual treatment providers, who will help them to maintain their progress.

If you would like to schedule an intake appointment, gather more information or are a provider interested in making a referral please call 301-654-7770 or email ascend@metcounseling.com.

Ascend Information and Forms

ASCEND PROGRAM SCHEDULE AND FEES

ASCEND CLIENT INFORMATION SHEET

ASCEND CONTRACT

ASCEND CREDIT CARD AUTHORIZATION FORM

ASCEND CLIENT CODE OF CONDUCT

ASCEND FAMILY PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT