Navigating Your Care

Life is complicated. Navigating mental health care shouldn’t be. At McLean, we are with you every step of the way, ensuring patients and their families have an expert guiding them through every step of their treatment journey.

About Mental Health

Everything You Want to Know

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At McLean, we know that understanding your conditions is an important part of starting the path toward recovery. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of many mental illnesses.

More About Conditions
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Patient Stories

Watch these videos to learn more about the patient experience at McLean.

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What to Expect When You’re a Patient

Guides to Care

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Patient Rights

We treat people with dignity and respect, as we provide the best care possible and assist you in your recovery. It is important for patients to be aware of their rights. This information is also available in Spanish.
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Arrival Guide

A comprehensive resource regarding patient arrival and what to expect throughout the steps from arrival to admission for those who may be unfamiliar with the process. This guide is also available in Spanish.
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ECT Guide

ECT is used to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions, including depression and some psychotic illnesses. This guide walks patients and their families through the treatment and what to expect.
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Student Guide

Each year, more than 600 college students are treated at McLean Hospital. This guide, written with direct contributions from students, for students, aims to answer questions and alleviate concerns.

COVID-19 Information for Patients

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At McLean, we are dedicated to supporting our patients and their families through the coronavirus pandemic.

COVID-19 Information
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Patient Resources

Find more information about your care at McLean and resources to help you before, during, and after your care.

Find Resources

Defining Commonly Used Terms

Levels of Care

McLean Hospital offers comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults with a range of psychiatric diagnoses and symptoms. Care is available at varying levels of intensity, from acute inpatient hospitalization to outpatient groups and individual therapy.

Inpatient

Used for crisis stabilization when there is risk of harm to self or others. 24-hour nursing supervision and care is provided in a secure setting.

Residential

For people who are stable but need intensive, around-the-clock care. Structured treatment is provided alongside comfortable accommodations.

Partial Hospital

Also known as day programs—best for patients who do not require hospitalization yet need more structure than is available in outpatient visits.

Outpatient

Patients attend appointments for therapy and medications, and may participate in group therapy.

Schools

McLean is home to two therapeutic schools for students who also struggle with mental health issues.

Services

Auxiliary services can include imaging, internal medicine, diagnostic assessment, and more.