Behavioral Health Services

At Mount Nittany Health, we know that asking for help can be difficult. That’s why our Behavioral Health Services are designed to provide care in a safe, supportive and confidential setting. Our team offers short-term inpatient care for adults who are experiencing acute mental health challenges. With 12 beds in six semi-private rooms, our unit is built to feel calm and comfortable, giving patients space to begin their journey.

Care is provided by a dedicated team of psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, counselors and recreation specialists working together to meet each patient’s unique needs. We recognize that mental health care is not one-size-fits-all, which is why we focus on individual treatment planning and involving trusted supports. We explore what services will be needed following inpatient treatment.

Through individual and group therapy, we help patients build coping skills, reshape thought patterns and develop healthier strategies for the future.

Behavioral health conditions we treat

We understand the challenges that mental health crises bring, and we’re here to provide compassionate, effective support for you or your loved ones. We provide inpatient support for individuals experiencing a range of acute behavioral health challenges, including:

• Major depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Suicidality
• Severe anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

When is impatient care needed?

Inpatient facilities provide intensive support through therapy, medication management and round-the-clock supervision. It is required when a person’s safety or the safety of others is at risk, or if a person is struggling to function in daily life. This includes situations involving suicidal or homicidal thoughts, where constant monitoring in a secure environment is essential. Care is also necessary when symptoms are too severe to be managed in an outpatient setting.

Inpatient treatment is short-term, can be 24/7 and includes psychiatric evaluations to manage active symptoms and prepare for the next level of care.

Behavioral health treatments and services

Our team uses evidence-based practices to foster healing and resilience, including the following treatments:

• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT): Strategies to improve distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Techniques to identify and challenge negative thought patterns to encourage healthier behaviors and emotions.
• Group therapy: A supportive environment where patients connect and learn from shared experiences.
• Family and support involvement: Strengthening relationships and building communication tools to support recovery.
• Individualized safety and aftercare planning: Collaboration with patients and their support networks to ensure continued care beyond inpatient treatment.
• Medication management: Careful evaluation and administration of medications by board-certified psychiatrists to treat symptoms and support mental health stability.

We also help patients plan for life after hospitalization by connecting them with outpatient providers, community resources and more.

Outpatient behavioral health services

Coming 2026

We provide support for individuals experiencing a range of acute behavioral health conditions, including:

• Depression and mood disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
• Bipolar disorder
• Unhealthy coping skills
• Grief and loss
• Family/relationship problems
• Stress management issues
• Post-traumatic stress
• Anger management
• Self-injurious behaviors
• Suicidal thoughts
• Substance use
• Isolating behaviors
• Poor body image
• Boundary issues

Traditional outpatient care

Your Mount Nittany Health primary care physician can refer you for mental health treatment.

Partial hospitalization program (PHP)

Our PHP is the most intensive step-down option, ideal for those who need structured, full-day support. This program requires a minimum of 20 hours per week and includes three hours of group therapy each day, two hours of self-directed therapeutic activities, one individual or family therapy session each week and weekly appointments with a psychiatric nurse practitioner.

PHP offers a comprehensive treatment plan to help you build skills and address your mental health needs while returning home each evening.

Intensive outpatient program (IOP)

IOP provides a moderate level of support, balancing therapy with your everyday responsibilities. Participants attend a minimum of 10 hours of therapy each week, including three-hour group therapy sessions, individual or family therapy every two weeks and monthly consultations with a psychiatric nurse practitioner.

This program is designed to help you strengthen coping skills, manage stress and create a healthier routine.

No matter where you start, our goal is to empower you with the tools and strategies needed to improve your mental health and overall well-being. At Mount Nittany Health, you can trust that you’ll receive compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to your unique needs.

These programs (PHP and IOP only) operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.