Willow Program: Inpatient Acute Psychiatric Facility

Located in Philadelphia, Malvern Behavioral Health-Ford Road is a dedicated inpatient acute psychiatric facility designed to support adults navigating their most challenging moments.
Our 28-bed mental health inpatient unit provides a safe, structured environment for those experiencing a mental health crisis, including difficulties related to mood, reality, or thoughts of suicide.
Comprehensive Psychiatric Inpatient Treatment
We believe that every individual deserves a path to recovery tailored to their unique strengths. While we treat those with co-occurring substance use disorders, our primary focus is the stabilization and treatment of mental health disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Our psychiatric inpatient treatment is built on a foundation of:
- Evidence-Based Treatments: Utilizing proven clinical interventions individualized to meet your specific needs.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Prioritizing physical and emotional safety to help you feel empowered during your recovery.
- Holistic Philosophy: Meeting the full continuum of care from admission to discharge by focusing on whole-person treatment.

A Collaborative, Multi-Disciplinary Team
At the Willow Program, the patient is the center of a diverse professional team. Our collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of your health is addressed by experts, including:
- Attending Psychiatrists and Physicians
- Registered Nurses and Mental Health Technicians
- Social Workers and Master’s Level Clinicians
- Expressive Arts and Recreational Therapists
- Dietitians and Pharmacists
Therapeutic Programming & Interventions
Our mental health crisis center offers a compassionate therapeutic environment through a disciplined schedule of evidence-based treatments.
Core Therapeutic Activities
- Daily Process Groups: Led by master’s level clinicians to support growth and healing.
- Community Meetings: Morning and evening sessions to discuss daily expectations and track progress on personal goals.
- Educational Groups: Focused sessions on medication education, coping skills, stress management, and healthy sleep hygiene.
- Recreational Therapy: Facilitated weekly to build skills that support long-term wellness.

Assessment & Evaluation: What to Expect
Your care begins immediately upon arrival. Within the first few days, our team completes a series of assessments to understand your needs and create a personalized treatment plan.
1. Nursing Assessment
Your first evaluation focuses on immediate needs, including physical and mental health, pain, nutrition, and daily functioning.
2. Medical History & Physical
A physician reviews your overall health, medical history, and current symptoms to support safe, coordinated care.
3. Psychiatric Evaluation
Your psychiatrist assesses your mental health history, current concerns, and strengths to establish a diagnosis and initial care plan.
4. Psychosocial Assessment
Our social services team explores your background, relationships, environment, and long-term goals, including discharge planning.
5. Therapy Assessment
Your therapist begins identifying the most effective therapeutic approach for your treatment.

Planning for Your Future
Recovery does not end at discharge; it’s an ongoing process. Our goal is to help you achieve the highest level of independence by connecting you with the right aftercare supports.
We also encourage family involvement whenever possible, helping to build a strong, lasting support system that extends beyond treatment.
Through dedicated transition planning groups, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of personal triggers and stressors while developing a clear, confident plan for your next steps after leaving our care.
If you or someone you know is seeking help, request more information about the Willow Program today.