Table 2.1.

Summary of Phases of Treatment, Objectives, and Actions.

Phase of treatment	Duration of phase	Objectives	Actions
Acute	Approximately 8–16 weeks, until symptom remission.	Address patient safety.	Assess suicide and safety risks. Define treatment setting (inpatient vs. outpatient). Develop a safety plan.
		Treat to symptom remission and functional improvement.	Establish rapport and therapeutic alliance. Use psychoeducation and self-management. Select and implement evidence-based treatment(s). Monitor tolerability, adherence, response, and side effects.
Maintenance	Approximately 6–24 months following the acute phase (or longer if clinically indicated).	Maintain symptomatic remission.	Make evidence-based adjustments to treatment(s). Address residual symptoms.
		Restore functioning and quality of life to premorbid levels.	Use psychoeducation and self-management. Treat comorbidities. Consider additional psychosocial interventions.
		Prevent recurrence.	Use psychoeducation to identify early symptoms for early intervention. Monitor for long-term side effects and adherence issues. Address barriers to care. Use interventions to promote resilience.
		Consolidate gains during treatment discontinuation.	Discontinue treatments when clinically indicated. Use evidence-based approaches when stopping treatment. Continue treatment when discontinuation is not indicated.