catatonia treatment
catatonia treatment for adolescents and adults
When a loved one becomes unresponsive, rigid, or unusually agitated, it’s frightening and confusing. Catatonia is a complex and serious condition that affects both the body and mind, leaving individuals trapped in a state of psychological and physical distress. At Galen Hope, we meet this condition with compassion, clinical expertise, and a deep belief in each person’s capacity for healing. We provide individualized catatonia treatment for teens and adults that addresses symptoms and contributes to sustainable recovery, grounded in dignity, understanding, and connection.
what is catatonia?
Catatonia is a psychomotor syndrome marked by disruptions in movement, speech, and responsiveness. The catatonic person may appear frozen in place, stop speaking entirely, repeat others’ words or actions, or display extreme agitation. While often associated with schizophrenia, catatonia can also occur alongside mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder, as well as in response to trauma, substance use, or medical conditions.
Symptoms may vary, from stupor and immobility to intense restlessness, and can shift quickly. Without proper treatment, catatonia may lead to serious medical complications such as malnutrition and injury. Fortunately, with swift and comprehensive care, catatonia is highly treatable. At Galen Hope, we work closely with clients and families to demystify this condition, support immediate stabilization, and support long-term well-being.
our approach to catatonia treatment
At Galen Hope, we recognize that catatonia is never just a symptom—it’s a signal or “alarm bell.” Often, catatonia emerges as the body and mind’s response to overwhelming stress, trauma, or underlying psychiatric or medical conditions. That’s why our treatment approach is both medically grounded and deeply relational.
Our clinical team conducts a thorough assessment to identify contributing factors—psychiatric, physiological, or neurological—and quickly begins targeted treatment. For many, this includes benzodiazepine therapy, psychiatric medications, nutritional stabilization, or medical treatment. For others, more advanced interventions like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be considered.
Healing doesn’t stop at symptom relief. We integrate trauma-informed psychotherapy, family systems work, and mind-body practices to help clients reconnect to themselves and their environment. From the moment a client arrives, they’re met with warmth, not fear—because we believe healing begins with being seen, heard, and cared for.
what catatonia treatment might look like at galen hope
1. connect
Connect with us: A compassionate care coordinator will listen and help you take the first step towards healing and moving forward with your life.
2. Collaborate
Collaborate on your treatment plan: Our expert clinical team will design a personalized roadmap based on your goals, needs, and life circumstances.
3. Engage
Engage in our healing community: Participate in a structured, supportive treatment program alongside peers and professionals who understand trauma.
4. Healing
Begin your journey toward lasting healing: As symptoms ease, you will develop skills, insight, and a renewed sense of self to carry with you long after treatment ends.
typical catatonia clients we work with
Catatonia affects individuals from all walks of life. At Galen Hope, we work with teens, college students, and adults, many of whom are coping with co-occurring mood or psychotic disorders. We offer affirming, inclusive care for the LGBTQ+ community, the Jewish community, neurodivergent individuals, athletes, BIPOC communities, and Latin and Hispanic communities (most of our employees are bilingual).
we invite you here to heal in your own very special way
At Galen Hope, every client is immediately acknowledged as an individual whose story may not be represented by traditional diagnostic criteria. We seek to fully understand their life experience and to provide them with an affirming environment where they feel accepted and supported.
For someone struggling with an eating disorder or mental illness, finding a place in the world, forming connections, developing meaning and purpose in life, and having day-to-day support is vital to better outcomes, long-term health, and well-being. We create a sense of community inside our doors, where we facilitate a commitment to recovery. We find tremendous meaning in bringing someone into our circle and helping them recognize the importance they play in it. It is through these relationships that healing takes place and clients begin to develop the skills to live both independently and in relation to others.
catatonia faqs
what are the symptoms of catatonia?
Catatonia can present in many forms, but common symptoms include mutism (not speaking), stupor (immobility or lack of response), posturing, waxy flexibility (holding a rigid position), echolalia (mimicking speech), and agitation. Some people alternate between states of restlessness and stillness. Each person’s presentation is different, which is why a thorough clinical assessment is necessary.
what causes catatonia?
Catatonia can be caused by psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, or bipolar disorder. It can arise due to trauma, infections, metabolic imbalances, or drug reactions. Often, it’s a complex interplay of factors. Galen Hope’s team works to identify and treat the root causes—not just the symptoms.
can catatonia occur with depression or schizophrenia?
Yes. Catatonia frequently co-occurs with mood disorders such as major depression and bipolar disorder. It’s also observed in schizophrenia. It can be a response to overwhelming emotional pain or psychosis. Regardless of the underlying diagnosis, individualized care is the key to effective recovery.
is catatonia a medical emergency?
In some cases, yes. When this condition leads to a refusal to eat or drink, extreme agitation, or medical instability, urgent intervention is needed. Prompt treatment prevents complications and improves outcomes. Galen Hope provides rapid assessment to determine the safest and most effective care plan.
is hospitalization necessary for catatonia?
Hospitalization may be necessary if symptoms are severe or if the individual is at risk of harm. However, many clients can receive excellent care in intensive outpatient or partial hospitalization settings. At Galen Hope, we carefully evaluate the most appropriate level of care and offer flexible programs that promote recovery while preserving autonomy.
what's the difference between an inpatient vs outpatient treatment center?
Inpatient treatment involves 24-hour care within a hospital or residential facility. Outpatient centers, like Galen Hope, offer structured therapeutic programming during the day while clients return home or to supported housing at night. Our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provide high-level care with a focus on integration, healing, and community.
how can I help a friend or family member with catatonia?
Stay calm and avoid trying to force a response. Catatonia is not a choice—it’s a neuropsychiatric condition that requires compassionate medical care. Seek help for your loved one if they are unable to do so. Consider attending family therapy or education sessions to learn how to best support them in recovery. Galen Hope offers collaborative support for families every step of the way.
does galen hope take insurance?
Yes. Galen Hope accepts insurance for mental health and eating disorder treatment. We are in-network with ComPsych, Claritev (formerly called Multiplan), Aetna, and Optum/UnitedHealthcare plans. We also work with many out-of-network insurance providers and offer benefit verification to help you understand your options.
What insurance plans does Galen Hope accept for eating disorder and mental health treatment?
Galen Hope is currently in-network with ComPsych, Multiplan, Aetna, and select Optum/UnitedHealthcare plans. Through our Optum contract, we may also be able to work with commercial plans such as UnitedHealthcare, AvMed, and Oscar. We also support many clients through out-of-network benefits with providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Cigna, First Health, and others. To determine how your specific plan may apply to treatment, please contact us for a complimentary insurance verification.
Can I use out-of-network insurance to pay for treatment at Galen Hope?
In some instances, we can accept out-of-network (OON) as full payment while in others, we provide a scaled partial payment. This may also be connected with your out or pocket max, as well as co-pays and co-insurance. The degree to which out of network benefits cover the full cost of treatment varies greatly from policy to policy. In some instances it can serve as full payment, while others may cover a portion. In all cases, individuals using out of network benefits will be subject to paying their out-of-network deductible and other fees such as the out of pocket max, co-insurance or co-pays as dictated by your insurance policy.
Does Galen Hope help verify insurance benefits for treatment?
Absolutely. We offer free insurance benefit verification to help you understand what your policy may cover before you begin treatment. We aim to provide full transparency around coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Can I get a Single Case Agreement (SCA) for treatment at Galen Hope?
When clinically indicated and appropriate, we pursue Single Case Agreements (SCAs) to help families access in-network-level coverage with an out-of-network provider. Our team advocates on your behalf and provides clinical documentation to support the request. We encourage you to call us so that we can determine if a SCA is warranted.
What happens if my insurance stops covering treatment early?
If your insurance coverage ends unexpectedly and we believe the denial of care is not in your best clinical interest, our team will work directly with your insurance carrier to appeal the decision. You will receive timely notification of any changes in authorizations for care in order to explore financial options and clinical recommendations to help minimize any disruption in care.
How can I find out what my insurance covers for eating disorder or mental health treatment?
Our admissions team will assess your insurance policy, the recommended level of care, and your treatment location to give you a clear understanding of what your plan is likely to cover. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
Are insurance benefits different depending on where I live?
Yes. Insurance coverage may vary by state and plan type. We consider your plan’s regional requirements when evaluating your benefits.
Will I know my treatment costs before starting at Galen Hope?
Yes. Before admission, we’ll walk you through all anticipated costs, including what insurance is likely to cover and any out-of-pocket expenses, so there are no surprises.
Can Galen Hope help me understand my insurance coverage?
Yes. Our experienced admissions team will break down your policy, explain your mental health or eating disorder benefits, and help you make the most informed decision possible.
our catatonia treatment centers in florida
With two best-in-class catatonia treatment centers in Florida, Galen Hope is committed to transforming lives through expert clinical care and compassionate connection. We understand the urgency and complexity of catatonia—and we respond with clarity, speed, and kindness. Our personalized programs support full-body healing and emotional restoration, offering a pathway to hope and wholeness. You might be local or traveling from out of state; whatever your story, Galen Hope is here to help you find your way back to yourself.
coral gables
Address: 806 Douglas Road, Suite 625
Coral Gables, FL 33445
delray beach
Address: 4600 Linton Blvd.
Delray Beach, FL 33445