How is Integral Theory applied to residential treatment?
At Innercept we take a balanced look at the resident’s life from each of the perspectives or quadrants described by Integral Theory. We focus on the internal self (feelings, self esteem, needs, spirituality and values) and external functioning (health, behavior and academics). We assist the resident in functioning optimally in their family, peer relationships and community, as well as help them develop healthy values and a work ethic that refines their inner character. The paths or lines addressed include:
- Physical (hygiene, diet, exercise, sleep habits, vitamins/medication)
- Behavioral (personal safety, physical/verbal control, attitude/manners)
- Self Image (developing a positive and realistic view of oneself in the world)
- Emotions (establishing a stable mood state, expressing emotions in a modulated manner)
- Coping skills (handling the stresses of life in a healthy manner, soothing oneself when upset)
- Needs/Goals (understanding the needs, emotions and impulses which can motivate actions)
- Values (clarifying the qualities that give life meaning and setting purposeful goals)
- Spiritual (understanding oneself in relationship to God/Higher power/Self/Spirit)
- Responsibility for one's home and living environment
- Interpersonal relationships (developing effective social skills)
- Family relationships (improving or healing relationships to significant family members)
- Community involvement and community service
- Finding and establishing support groups with whom one shares values and meaning
We take a developmental perspective with each resident in order to determine in what areas they are functioning at an age-appropriate level and in what areas they may be more immature. Many of our residents come with serious deficits in one or more area which has made it difficult for them to function in a typical home or school environment. At the same time, they may excel in another area. Residents are assisted in moving into a more mature level of functioning.
An individualized treatment plan is developed for each resident covering all of the above areas. Parents, staff and the resident complete assessment interviews which are incorporated into the overall plan. The resident is assisted in recognizing areas where they are already successful and are demonstrating age appropriate development. They are helped to determine areas of need where their functioning is less mature and in need of growth. A plan is established with specific step-wise goals to help the resident learn and practice the skills that are needed to catch-up when they are behind.
he resident participates in group and individual therapy designed to educate them regarding healthy functioning and helping them resolve issues which may have interfered with their development. Activities and daily life in the milieu allow the resident to practice the skills they are learning. Each resident has an individual therapist who is responsible for coordinating their treatment plan and maintaining communication with the family. Family therapy (phone and face to face) allows the resident to improve communication with the family and resolve issues of conflict. The resident is assisted in recognizing their own unique potential and to understand their personality type, emphasizing the positive and healthy aspects of their style. May residents come to Innercept having difficulty managing the emotional states of anger, depression and anxiety. They are assessed through group therapy in better being able to mange difficult emotions and influence their own internal states. Groups focusing on teaching anger management, relaxation and meditation are offered.
At Innercept we believe that the residents do not only need help in changing their behavior, but also need support in identifying the internal values which will help guide them through life. We maintain a respect for the diversity of the cultural, philosophical and spiritual values of each resident’s experience. We strive to help them identify, explore and internalize the values that they choose for themselves. We help each resident develop an understanding of the values that we share and help instill responsibilities of safety and respect for our physical well-being, responsible actions, cooperation with and accept of others, personal autonomy and working up to one’s potential. Innercepts Program Values are:
- Maintain a physically and emotionally safe environment
- Create order out of chaos, inside and outside
- Work hard; work together
- Acknowledge that everyone has something to contribute; everyone has the right to be heard
- Encourage positive communication and feedback among staff, residents, families, and neighbors
- Encourage others to explore their dreams and actualize their potential
