Assisted Outpatient Treatment
Assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) is a court-ordered program that provides mental health services to individuals with severe mental illness who have a history of noncompliance with treatment. It typically involves a combination of medication management, therapy, and support services, all aimed at helping individuals maintain stability and avoid hospitalization.
AOT is designed for those who may not seek help voluntarily, often due to their illness, and it usually requires regular check-ins with mental health professionals. The goal is to improve the individual’s quality of life and reduce the risk of crises that could lead to hospitalization or incarceration.
The Court is responsible for ensuring that your legal rights are respected and carried out according to Washington law.
- The judge will listen to your concerns and encourage you to remain engaged and participate in your treatment.
- Your legal representative will ensure that you are fully represented and heard in legal proceedings.
Requirements
While in the AOT Program, you will be an active participant in your recovery and will be required to work with your treatment team and the Court as follows:
- Help to develop your treatment plan and treatment goals.
- Follow your treatment plan and recommendations to progress through the program.
- Attend and participate in court hearings by giving the judge an update on your treatment progress and how you feel you are doing in AOT.
- Take all prescribed medications and update your treatment team with any issues or side effects.
- Attend all appointments with your treatment providers
- Keep your case manager informed of your current address or location.
- Notify your case manager if you:
- Run out of medication
- Miss an appointment
- Are hospitalized
- Are arrested
- Obey all laws
- Abstain from the use of illegal substances and refrain from alcohol use as it may affect prescribed medication.
Treatment Provider Responsibilities
The AOT Team will work with you in developing an individualized treatment plan that is specific to you and identifies your personal treatment goals, while helping you to attain them.
Your AOT team will:
- Work with you to navigate the services and supports that will lead to successful outcomes.
- Listen to you and make changes to your treatment plan when you feel something is not working for you.
- Be available to you when you need them and walk beside you throughout the AOT process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I be in the Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) Court Program?
The court order may last up to 18 months. The length of the program will vary based on your level of need, cooperation, and adherence. In general, the court will use these guidelines:
Phase 1 – Appear before the Court every two weeks
Phase 2 – Appear before the Court once a month
Phase 3 – Appear before the Court every 6 weeks
Phase 4 – Graduate from the program
How do I successfully complete the program?
This is up to you and your treatment team. The Court will determine when your court order ends based on your participation in treatment, as well as your adherence to your treatment plan and recommendations from your treatment team. By the time you complete the program, you should have attained stable housing, be functioning well in the community, and actively managing your symptoms and recovery.
What happens if I am sick or forget an appointment?
You must contact your case manager immediately and provide the reason for missing the appointment. You will need to reschedule the appointment as soon as possible.
What if I do not want to take the medications that have been prescribed?
Your psychiatrist has prescribed the medication(s) they feel is best to address the symptoms of your mental illness. If you are having side effects or want to request a change in medications, you must discuss this with your psychiatrist. Please contact your case manager for assistance. Remember, taking your medication(s) as prescribed is part of maintaining compliance.
Am I allowed to speak to the Judge?
Yes. The Judge will give you the opportunity at each court hearing to discuss your progress and any other concerns you may have.
Are there any costs to participate in the AOT Court Program?
No.