Encouraging treatment plan adherence: Strategies for mental health professionals

The success of therapy often hinges on a client’s adherence to their treatment plan, with consistent follow-through on recommendations and appointments. Mental health professionals face the challenge of engaging clients and ensuring they remain committed to their treatment journey. This article explores five strategies to encourage treatment plan adherence while staying compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Adherence is shockingly low: according to a study published by BioMedCentral, “overall, 49% of major psychiatric disorder patients were non-adherent to their psychotropic medication.” Similar outcomes existed across studies in mental health and chronic illness treatment. 

The bottom line: People are bad at sticking to their treatment plans.

Here are five simple and effective ways to improve client engagement and ensure HIPAA compliance.

1. Goal setting and monitoring 

What it is: Collaborative goal setting involves working with clients to establish clear, realistic, and measurable objectives for their treatment.

How it encourages adherence: By actively involving clients in the goal-setting process, therapists can increase motivation, ownership, and accountability, leading to better adherence.

First steps to goal setting:

• Hold a dedicated goal-setting session with the client.
• Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable milestones.
• Regularly review and adjust goals as needed.

2. Client education and empowerment

What it is: Educating clients about their mental health condition and the rationale behind their treatment plan.

How it encourages adherence: When clients understand the importance of their treatment and how it addresses their needs, they are more likely to follow through with the plan.

First steps to educate clients:

• Provide clients with resources and materials about their condition.
• Explain the rationale behind each aspect of the treatment plan.
• Encourage questions and address any concerns.

3. Leveraging technology

What it is: Utilizing digital tools and platforms to engage clients and support treatment plan adherence.

How it encourages adherence: Technology can streamline communication, track progress, and provide helpful reminders, making it easier for clients to adhere to their treatment plans.

Steps to leverage technology:

• Use secure, HIPAA compliant email for communication and appointment scheduling.
• Use mobile apps or online tools to help clients track progress and set reminders.
• Encourage clients to use digital resources like meditation apps or mood-tracking tools.

Related: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide

4. HIPAA Compliant email marketing 

What it is: HIPAA compliant Email marketing involves sending targeted, helpful, and relevant content to clients to keep them engaged and informed throughout their treatment journey.

How it encourages adherence: By consistently delivering value-added content, therapists can maintain regular contact, foster trust, and encourage clients to stay on track with their treatment plan.

How to send HIPAA compliant newsletters:

• Use a HIPAA compliant email marketing platform to ensure client information remains secure.
• Develop a content strategy that includes tips, resources, and success stories about treatment adherence.
• Personalize email content based on the client’s specific condition and goals.
• Track email engagement metrics to identify and address any gaps in client communication.

Related: Use email marketing to improve patient adherence to treatment plans

5. Building a Supportive Therapeutic Alliance 

What it is: A strong therapeutic alliance is the relationship between the client and therapist, characterized by trust, empathy, and collaboration.

How it encourages adherence: A positive therapeutic relationship can motivate clients to adhere to their treatment plan by creating a safe and supportive environment.

Steps to build a solid therapeutic alliance:

• Be empathetic, actively listen, and validate the client’s experiences and emotions.
• Collaborate with the client on their treatment plan and decision-making.
• Demonstrate consistency and reliability in appointments and communication.

By incorporating these strategies into their practice, mental health professionals can effectively support and encourage clients to adhere to their treatment plans. In doing so, they can create a foundation for lasting, positive change while maintaining HIPAA compliance.