1. Where will I receive my outpatient treatment?

Depending on your rehabilitation needs, you may participate in therapy services at one of Special Tree’s therapy clinics, or in a home or community setting.

2. What happens on the first day that I’m admitted to the outpatient program?

When you first arrive, our staff will show you around to help you become familiar with the outpatient center. If you receive two or more therapy services, you’ll be paired with a Special Tree Case Manager who will assess your rehabilitation needs. During this time, your family members or guardians (as appropriate) may meet with your Case Manager to review and complete the admissions paperwork. A few days later, a Special Tree staff member (social worker, nurse, or Case Manager) will meet with you and your family to answer any questions and to gather information about your background to help familiarize Special Tree staff with you and your family. The entire process usually takes place within the first week of your admission.

3. Once I’m admitted to the outpatient program, what happens next?

Within the first 5 to 10 days of your admission, your treatment team or primary therapist will meet with you and your family to review your individual rehabilitation goals. This “Intake Conference” is where the team or your therapist will talk with you about your transition and discharge plans, and will work closely with you and your family to develop a rehabilitation plan that establishes the necessary steps to achieve your goals. Your Special Tree Case Manager or therapist will also schedule periodic Care Conferences for your treatment team to present and discuss your progress with you and your family.

4. How long will I be an outpatient at Special Tree?

The length of your outpatient program is determined largely by your individual needs and goals. Each rehabilitation program is unique to each person, so this is a difficult question to answer. An important component of the rehabilitation plan is to identify steps you must achieve to reach each milestone in your recovery. In this way, you and your family will have an understanding of what needs to happen for you to reach your transition and discharge goals.

5. How should I dress for therapy?

When you arrive for your outpatient therapy, you are encouraged to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, underclothes, and shoes.

6. How often will I attend therapy sessions?

Therapy is offered weekdays and occasionally on Saturdays. Your physician will determine the type and frequency of your therapy sessions. While most therapy is provided in our clinics, some sessions may be provided in your family home or in the community. It is very important that you arrive on time for your therapy and attend all scheduled sessions.

7. Can my family attend my therapy sessions and care conferences?

Family support and participation in your rehabilitation program is not only encouraged, it can be a critical factor in your recovery. Family members are welcome in therapy sessions unless their participation becomes a distraction. If you are your own guardian you may determine, whether your family members should be involved. Special Tree will always respect your autonomy and privacy. Your progress and recovery must remain the most important priority at all times.

8. Who will make medical decisions regarding my care?

You are encouraged to continue relationships with medical specialists and family and hospital physicians who may currently be providing treatment and guidance in your post-injury rehabilitation. Depending on your needs, your Case Manager and other staff will maintain contact with your physicians and medical specialists.

9. Who do I (or my family members) contact if we have a question, problem or concern?

We value honest feedback and encourage you and your family to share your thoughts and concerns with your Special Tree Case Manager or your primary therapist so that we consistently deliver outstanding care and services. Your Special Tree Case Manager or your primary therapist is available to assist you and your family throughout the entire rehabilitation process and serves as the link between clients and families and their physicians, insurance company, external case manager, outside stakeholders, community resources, and the Special Tree treatment team.