Ottawa Institute of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Why Stepped-Care?

Assessment and treatment services offered at the Ottawa Institute of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy vary in approach, intensity, and cost.  Our treatment approach reflects the OICBT’s commitment to a stepped-care model of service delivery.

Within a stepped-care model, clients seeking treatment are first carefully assessed to determine the nature, history, and severity of the problem they are experiencing and the impact of this problem on their life.  After this initial assessment, treatment recommendations are made to address the identified difficulties.  These treatment recommendations are designed to match the severity and complexity of the problems reported.  Progress in treatment is monitored weekly using self-report tools, and based on how treatment is progressing we may suggest that treatment be continued as it is, or be reduced (stepped down) or increased (stepped up) in terms of intensity.   Depending on the types of problems someone may be experiencing, the most appropriate level of care may range from involvement in a non-intensive psychoeducational group all the way to a more intensive day treatment program requiring the ongoing involvement of several mental health professionals.

The rationale for increasing the intensity of treatment, when needed, is to reduce the duration and total cost of treatment while aiming to resolve symptoms and improve quality of life as soon as possible.  The stepped-care approach that we employ allows clients the opportunity to allocate resources in the most efficient manner possible.

For more information on stepped-care and how it will shape your experience at the OICBT, please click here.

If you would like to know more about the services offered at the OICBT, you may review the descriptions and fact sheets here. 

If you have reviewed the OICBT’s treatment philosophy and areas of practice, and would like to schedule an intake appointment, please click on the “Book Now” button on our homepage. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions by calling us at 613-820-9931 (ext. 0).