ABOUT NORTH SHORE LIJ – SOUTH OAKS HOSPITAL
Located on Long Island, New York, in the community of Amityville, South Oaks Hospital offers a comprehensive range of treatment programs, including short-term residential, intensive outpatient (IOP) treatment, and outpatient services. The psychiatric hospital specializes in treating children and adolescents with mental health disorders, as well as adults with psychiatric disorders and chemical dependency. To address withdrawal symptoms, South Oaks provides adults with medically-monitored detoxification services.
TREATMENT & ASSESSMENT
Prior to treatment, clients undergo a psychiatric and substance abuse assessment to assist clinicians in developing individualized programs. South Oaks’ residential program aims to stabilize clients and transition them to less intense levels of care. Unlike residential treatment, the average length of stay in the hospital’s residential program is between five and 15 days. After this phase, clients continue treatment through partial hospitalization or outpatient programs.
South Oaks Hospital utilizes evidence-based treatment modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). These approaches are offered through one-on-one therapy, group counseling sessions, and family therapy with client consent. Clients struggling with chemical dependency are introduced to the 12-Steps and attend daily meetings. Medication-assisted therapy is also available to address cravings, and clients with primary psychiatric issues receive medication consultation and management to alleviate symptoms.
In addition to conventional methods, treatment programs incorporate recreational activities and holistic treatment methods. These may include ceramics, expressive writing and art, pet therapy, exercise regimens, and guided Tai Chi sessions. The programs may also offer vocational training for adults and educational resources for adolescents and children.
Aftercare is available through step-down outpatient programming. IOP sessions take place three to five days per week for three hours each, while general outpatient sessions offer more flexibility.
STAFF CREDENTIALS
South Oaks Hospital employs a large, multidisciplinary staff consisting of medical doctors, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, substance abuse and mental health counselors, licensed social workers, child and adolescent psychologists, recreational therapists, and case managers.
ACCOMMODATIONS & AMENITIES
In 2013, South Oaks Hospital designated Jennings Hall to better serve clients recovering from chemical dependency. The hall provides 24 beds for detoxification and 28 beds for residential rehabilitation. The facility features extensive lounging areas, a dining hall, and an outdoor patio area to create a less clinical atmosphere. Clients also have access to a state-of-the-art fitness studio and full gymnasium on the hospital’s campus.
WHAT ALUMNI SAY
Best-rehabs.com alumni survey data from eight reviewers so far indicates that former clients found the program highly beneficial. They rated the inclusion of holistic methods and the quality of the staff with four and five stars, based on a five-star metric. Based on seven ratings for treatment effectiveness, the facility has earned 4.6 out of five stars. An anonymous alum mentioned that the counselors were a strength and commented that the program “made me aware of root problems.” Carleen, another former client, described the program as “wonderful,” meeting her needs and being structured and goal-oriented.
WHAT FRIENDS & FAMILY SAY
Around a dozen friends and family members also reported mostly positive experiences, describing the staff as accommodating, caring, and hands-on. Eleven ratings for treatment effectiveness have averaged 3.6 out of five stars. However, some loved ones expressed concerns about insurance issues and program costs. While one loved one mentioned that the intake area was crowded, they still deemed the facility a good first step for initial detox and equipped to provide adequate treatment. Kath, another respondent, indicated that their loved one was discharged prematurely. One friend of a client reported long-term recovery, stating that their friend went through a complete turnaround and is now sober and productive after eight months.
FINANCING
South Oaks Hospital accepts a wide range of private insurance providers.