For Families
Supporting a loved one through mental health treatment can be difficult. Families often feel uncertain about how to help, worried about saying the wrong thing, or exhausted by the weight of long-term concern. We recognize this. We want to help.
What We Offer Families
With the patient's consent, Thornridge offers family consultation sessions. These are meetings between a clinical team member and family members, focused on practical questions: how to support your loved one's recovery, how to recognize signs of relapse, how to take care of yourself while caring for someone else. Family consultations are an additional service and are scheduled separately from the patient's own appointments.
Communication During Treatment
Federal and state privacy laws, including HIPAA, protect the confidentiality of adult patients' mental health records and treatment details. Thornridge follows these laws carefully. We cannot discuss specifics of an adult patient's diagnosis, treatment plan, or clinical progress with family members unless the patient has specifically authorized us to do so.
This can feel frustrating, especially for family members who are actively providing care and support. We understand. We encourage patients to include family members in their care when they feel comfortable doing so, and we provide clear information about how to grant communication consent when desired.
Family Liaison Line
Thornridge maintains a dedicated telephone line for family members who have questions about the process of supporting a loved one in treatment. Messages left on this line are returned by our Patient Services team during business hours. Please note that we cannot discuss specific clinical details with family members unless the patient has authorized us to do so; this line is intended for general guidance, scheduling of family consultations, and questions about visitor policies.
Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Voicemail after hours.
Supporting Yourself
Caring for a family member with mental health challenges is hard work. We encourage family members to seek their own support — whether through friends, support groups, therapy, or simply rest. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
If You Are Concerned About a Family Member
If you believe a family member may benefit from psychiatric care, you can encourage them to contact us directly or visit our Contact page. We cannot initiate care on behalf of an adult patient. We can, however, provide general information to family members who are considering whether Thornridge might be a good fit for someone they love.
In Crisis
If you or a family member is experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 988, the national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or visit your nearest hospital emergency department. Thornridge is not a 24-hour facility and cannot provide emergency psychiatric care.