Patient Education
Empowerment Begins with Understanding
Whether you’re entering treatment for the first time, supporting a loved one, or exploring your options after a relapse, one thing is always true:
Knowledge reduces fear, strengthens confidence, and leads to better outcomes.
At Epic Health Partners, we believe that education is a vital part of every recovery journey. That’s why we offer accessible, clinically reviewed resources to help you understand:
- What mental health and substance use disorders really are
- What recovery looks like — and how it’s different for everyone
- What levels of care are available in Virginia and which one might be right for you
- How to access services through Medicaid, commercial insurance, or community referrals
- How to advocate for yourself or your loved one through each phase of care
What You'll Find in Our Patient Education Library
Understanding Conditions and Diagnoses
- What is a substance use disorder (SUD)
- Signs of alcohol, opioid, stimulant, and cannabis dependence
- Co-occurring mental health and addiction: what is dual diagnosis
- Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder: how they affect recovery
- Behavioral and emotional disorders in children and teens
Navigating Levels of Care
- What is the difference between outpatient, IOP, and PHP?
- When is residential treatment necessary?
- How Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) supports opioid and alcohol recovery
- When to consider psychiatric care or skill-building services
- What family involvement looks like in treatment
Preparing for Treatment
- What to expect during the admissions process
- How to talk to your children or partner about entering care
- Questions to ask before choosing a provider
- What to bring (and not bring) to residential treatment
- Rights and responsibilities as a client
Support for Families and Loved Ones
- How to set healthy boundaries without giving up
- Understanding relapse and the recovery cycle
- Coping with shame, stigma, or guilt
- Getting involved in a loved one’s care
- Connecting to community resources and support groups
Insurance, Referrals & Accessibility
- Using Virginia Medicaid or commercial insurance for behavioral health services
- How to get a referral from a doctor, case worker, or court
- Sliding scale options and prior authorization requirements
- Telehealth access and transportation assistance
- HIPAA, consent, and confidentiality policies
Who These Resources Are For
- Clients entering or preparing for treatment
- Parents and caregivers of children or adults in care
- Referring professionals such as probation officers, DSS workers, or hospital discharge teams
- Community partners looking to educate their networks
- Anyone unsure if what they’re going through is “enough” to seek help
If you’re searching for answers about what treatment really looks like — you’re in the right place.
More Than Information — A Path Forward
Use this page to explore core concepts and get clear on your next steps
Download PDFs and handouts to review with loved ones
Ask your provider or case manager about personalized recommendations
Or contact us directly if you need help choosing the right level of care
Need a Place to Start? Try These Popular Topics
What Is the Difference Between IOP and PHP
How MAT (Suboxone, Vivitrol) Helps with Opioid Recovery
When Is It Time to Consider Residential Treatment
Mental Health Services for Children Covered by CSA in Virginia
Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders: Substance Use + Depression
Start the Healing Journey Today
Speak confidentially with an admissions specialist — no judgment, just support