P.A.R.C. Mag: In regards to the intensive outpatient program. Have you had much success with patients in that particular program?
Dr. Sunny: "The success varies in intensive outpatient programs. I am currently the Clinical Director at Compassion Behavioral Health. We have clients who have to maintain alcohol and drug-free and, some clients who continue to relapse. It is all about the support network they establish and apply the coping skills they develop while in treatment."
P.A.R.C. Mag: Through the aid of therapy and other services your ultimate goal is for clients to be resilient and in recovery. What does recovery look like to you? Generally, how frequently does a client visit your facility once they're in recovery? How are they monitored?
Dr. Sunny: "To me, recovery is all about taking one day at a time and remaining positive in the midst. Currently, we have several clients who visit once a month and contact via phone bi-weekly. Clients are monitored by staff, they are invited to come and speak for the current clients. If they are not speaking, they interact with staff in a private office space so confidentiality is kept."
P.A.R.C. Mag: In terms of your Day Night Care for the Hospitalization Program, can you tell us a little more about how this program is structured? Are there any particular patients that are considered too high-risk to stay at your facility?
Dr. Sunny: "Day/Night is a program that provided clinical groups and individual sessions for clients who have a history of relapses and they are not able to manage their sobriety in their own environment. The clients live in a sober housing and they are transported to the center for group therapy and individual therapy sessions. Day/Night provides a minimum of 25 hours of services (24 Hours of group therapy and 1 hour of individual therapy). High-Risk patients will be individuals who are not able to attend outside support meetings without relapsing."
P.A.R.C. Mag: What insurances does your practice require? Are there programs to help persons with limited income or at the poverty level that can’t afford adequate care or treatment?
Dr. Sunny: "As far as Healing Hearts Therapy Center Inc. I accept BCBS out of network benefits, Tricare, and First Health"
P.A.R.C. Mag: I noticed you have art therapy. Can you discuss the therapy? What kinds of individuals generally participate in this program? Children, adults, persons with persistent mental health issues etc.?
Dr. Sunny: "During art therapy, I utilize it with children and adults who have difficulties expressing their emotions verbally."
P.A.R.C. Mag: Tell us about your case management services? Who qualifies to receive these services?
Dr. Sunny: "All clients at CBH qualify for case management services."
P.A.R.C. Mag: Have you participated in any healthcare fairs or events? Please share which ones you were involved in. Also, what was your most memorable experience?
Dr. Sunny: "I attend several events such as networking events to meet professionals who are in the field. I enjoy learning about new programs and meeting new faces."
P.A.R.C. Mag: What are your hopes for your practice in the next five years? Do you want to expand into other locations etc.?
Dr. Sunny: "I would like to build a program for autistic children. I would love to expand in San Diego, CA since I have a twin sister who is also a mental health clinician."