Programs and Services
Individual/Group Outpatient Care | Substance Use Recovery Services | Bereavement Support | Aging-in-Place Support
Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic
Our approach to behavioral healthcare is rooted in the understanding that mental health conditions are not a “natural” part of growing older — yet it is entirely to be expected that some 20% of adults will experience a mental health disorder in later life, particularly during times of frail health, isolation, or bereavement. At SPOP, we know that individual and group therapy can be a highly effective pathway to emotional well-being.
We offer medication management services and goal-oriented therapy in English, Spanish, and other languages for people ages 55 and older. Our staff are sensitive to the needs of mature adults and use an array of therapeutic modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and meditation practices, interpersonal therapy, and motivational interviewing. All clinicians have been trained in trauma-centered treatment, are experienced in working with adults of diverse backgrounds, and practice LGBTQ+ affirming care.
We accept Medicare, Medicaid and many insurance plans. We currently offer sessions by telehealth and at locations throughout Manhattan, the Bronx and Brooklyn. We offer all services in person and by telehealth.
We understand that therapy may be a new experience for many clients and we provide support at every step. Click here to learn how the process works. Clients can co-enroll in multiple programs at SPOP, including Bereavement Support or PROS.
Group Services
SPOP has a robust program of group therapy offerings in English and Spanish, which may be used as the sole therapy modality or in coordination with individual therapy. Groups can be effective in alleviating social isolation, promoting compassion, and creating a supportive environment among clients. Most groups meet by telehealth.
Topics can include Men’s Group; Better Together (isolation); Gay Men’s Group; Spanish-speaking Group (for anxiety or depression); Peace of Mind; Managing Chronic Illness; and A New Chapter (for women over age 80). Not all groups are available at all times.
To participate in a group, you must enroll through our intake department and commit to a regular meeting schedule. Scroll to the bottom of this page and click “Get Started” to learn more.
Personalized Recovery Oriented Services (PROS)
SPOP is home to New York State’s only Personalized Recovery Oriented Services (PROS) program exclusively for adults age 55 and older.
This program is for adults who have an experience of serious mental illness. All participants must be Medicaid-eligible; any questions regarding program eligibility can be addressed during the intake process.
The PROS model uses groups and individualized support to help participants develop independent living skills in such areas as family relationships; technology and communication; health and wellness; or housing. The program is open Monday-Friday from 9:00-3:00. Participants set their own schedules and we provide lunch and a snack each day. The program is currently operating with a mix of on-site and remote services.
Our team includes recovery counselors, licensed practitioners of the healing arts, a vocational specialist, certified peer specialists, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and a psychiatrist. Many are proficient in a second language.
We follow a comprehensive intake process that enables participants to determine if this program is the best fit for them, and we encourage individuals co-enroll in both the Clinic and PROS as needed.
Bereavement Support
The loss of a spouse, partner, loved one, or dear friend can be life-shattering at any age. We understand that the grieving process takes time and is best supported by others who have had the same experience.
Our award-winning program of non-sectarian peer-led bereavement support is open to adults of all ages, personal identities, and walks of life.
Bereavement groups meet for ten weeks of discussion, shared feelings, and support. The program is overseen by a clinical social worker, who interviews all participants in advance, trains the group facilitators, and provides additional resources as needed.
STRIVE: A New Approach to Healthy Aging
Our STRIVE program promotes wellness and aging in place for older New Yorkers by integrating behavioral healthcare with aging services. STRIVE is a three-way partnership among SPOP, New York City Aging, and Metropolitan Center for Mental Health.
The program is defined by a recovery-oriented approach that allows older adults to connect to various services — and works to ensure that they stay connected as they age in place.
The program is focused on adults age 55 and older who reside in the Borough of Manhattan and are seeking at least two types of support:
- Mental health treatment and/or
- Substance use treatment and/or
- Aging services.
Our interdisciplinary team includes peer support specialists, social workers, and other professionals. STRIVE is funded by the New York State Office of Mental Health.