Our Admissions Process

Seeking professional help for a mental health concern requires courage and strength, and navigating a confusing admissions process can feel daunting. At Bronson Behavioral Health Hospital in Battle Creek, Michigan, we understand the importance of making the journey to wellness as smooth as possible. Our dedicated team strives to provide exceptional customer service to streamline the admissions process and alleviate any concerns you may have.  

From the moment you reach out to us, our compassionate admissions specialists will be by your side, ready to assist you in exploring the available care options and guiding you toward the most appropriate treatment plan. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring that you feel empowered and confident as you embark on your healing journey. With our comprehensive services and personalized approach, we are here to help you regain control of your mental health and pursue a fuller, happier life. 

Overview of Care

Bronson is a renowned provider of inpatient mental health treatment for adults. Our team of trained professionals is committed to delivering exceptional care for adults who have acute behavioral health concerns, guiding them on the path to wellness and greater functioning. As a trusted member of the community, we offer comprehensive and high-quality mental healthcare in an inpatient setting to enhance the well-being of our patients. 

Our state-of-the-art, 96-bed mental health hospital offers acute inpatient treatment for adults age 18 and older of all genders. Conveniently situated less than 50 miles south of Grand Rapids, Bronson Behavioral Health Hospital is located amid picturesque surroundings to promote a sense of peace and tranquility. Patients stay in comfortable, spacious rooms designed for safety and healing.  

Every patient who participates in our inpatient treatment program works closely with a dynamic and diverse team of trained professionals that develops a customized plan of care for each person. These dedicated experts encourage each patient to take full control of their healing journey through participation in elements of care like individual therapy, family therapy, and daily group therapy sessions. Staff members you may work with during your inpatient stay include: 

  • Psychiatrists 
  • Psychologists 
  • Social workers 
  • Licensed professional counselors (LPCs) 
  • Psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs) 
  • Registered nurses (RNs) 
  • Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) 
  • Behavioral health technicians 
  • Dietitians 
  • Recreation therapists 

These behavioral health professionals lead therapy sessions with compassion and expertise. Therapy sessions are guided by principles of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach to counseling that focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health and well-being. CBT involves collaboration between therapist and patient to facilitate positive and lasting change. 

Group therapy is a main form of treatment at Bronson, and patients can expect to participate in daily group discussions led by caring social workers and therapists. These groups offer opportunities to develop a network of supportive peers and enhance social interactions. Topics that may be covered in group therapy include: 

  • How to identify triggers 
  • Healthy coping skills  
  • Emotion regulation 
  • Life skills 
  • Medication education 
  • Common mental health disorders 
  • Healthy communication skills 
  • Stress management 
  • Self-esteem and self-worth 
  • Substance use disorders 

If you have any additional questions about our treatment team or specific therapies, we encourage you to reach out to the admissions team. 

Admissions Criteria

Serving southwestern Michigan and beyond, Bronson Behavioral Health Hospital offers individualized treatment for adults age 18 and older who are struggling with severe symptoms of various mental health disorders. We provide care for many kinds of mental illnesses, but the most common concerns we treat are: 

  • Depressive disorders 
  • Anxiety disorders 
  • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 
  • Bipolar disorder 
  • Psychosis  
  • Schizoaffective disorder 
  • Schizophrenia 
  • Self-harming behaviors 
  • Suicidal ideation 

Sometimes, people who are suffering from a mental health disorder turn to substances to cope with their symptoms. Abusing alcohol or drugs can worsen mental health symptoms and complicate all aspects of someone’s life. At Bronson, we are equipped to treat primary mental health disorders and co-occurring substance use disorders with compassion and understanding. 

Our Admissions Process

During the admissions process, our primary goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of your unique circumstances and any daily challenges you are facing because of a mental illness. This can help us determine if our treatment center aligns with your specific needs. 

To begin the admissions process at Bronson Behavioral Health Hospital, you can call our admissions team. Our dedicated assessment staff is prepared to address your questions about mental health or co-occurring substance use treatment. During this initial evaluation, our experienced clinicians will discuss your needs and determine if inpatient treatment is appropriate. Questions we might ask you as part of the comprehensive admissions process include: 

  • What are the specific symptoms you’re experiencing?  
  • How long have you been experiencing these symptoms? 
  • Have you ever been diagnosed with a mental health condition?  
  • Do you have any mental health treatment history?  
  • Are you taking any medications for a mental health concern or medical condition?  
  • Do you use any substances, such as drugs or alcohol?  
  • Do you have a supportive network of family and friends?  
  • Are you currently experiencing any thoughts of self-harm or suicide?  

If you or a loved one requires comprehensive care to address behavioral, emotional, or mental health concerns, Bronson Behavioral Health Hospital is here to help. We desire to empower people to embark on a path to a brighter and happier future. Please don’t hesitate to contact our team today. 

Preparing for Your Stay

If our admissions team determines that acute inpatient mental health treatment at our hospital would be a good fit for you, you can begin preparing for your stay. Patients in our adult inpatient program can expect to participate in five to seven days of focused treatment. These are the items we recommend you bring with you: 

  • Important phone numbers 
  • Photo identification 
  • Insurance cards 
  • A list of medical or psychiatric providers  
  • A list of any medications you take 
  • A book or journal 
  • Five pairs of pants or shorts 
  • Five shirts without strings attached 
  • Seven pairs of underwear 
  • Two sweatshirts or sweaters (no hoodies or strings)
  • Three bras without underwire 
  • Seven pairs of socks 
  • One pair of slippers 
  • Two pairs of pajamas 
  • One pair of shoes without shoestrings 
  • Two pairs of athletic shorts or sweatpants 

Clothing must be in good repair, clean, weather-appropriate, and without holes or tears. If you bring shorts, they must be at least fingertip-length. Pants must fit well. All clothing must provide adequate coverage, and shorts must be worn under dresses or skirts. Any inappropriate clothing will be labeled with your name and stored for family to pick up, or until you are discharged.  

We will provide you with basic toiletry items, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and feminine hygiene products. For safety reasons, we cannot allow the following items to be brought to our campus: 

  • Hygiene or toiletry products 
  • Glass items 
  • Flat irons, curling irons, hair dryers, and anything with a cord  
  • Shaving kits, razors, and trimmers 
  • Sharp items like scissors, staples, and paper clips 
  • Any electronics, including cellphones, tablets, laptops, and e-readers 
  • Belts, strings, and clothing with ties 
  • Clothing that references drugs, alcohol, violence, or sexually inappropriate themes 
  • Jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets 

Acute inpatient mental health treatment includes intensive, round-the-clock care and support for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis. At Bronson Behavioral Health Hospital, we provide a highly structured, welcoming environment aimed at stabilizing people and promoting their continued healing. 

 

This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Bronson Behavioral Health Hospital. 

 

Marks of Quality Care
  • The Joint Commission (JCAHO) Gold Seal of Approval