During the past fifty years, mental and behavioral health treatments and patient needs have changed drastically within the psychiatric field.... Show moreDuring the past fifty years, mental and behavioral health treatments and patient needs have changed drastically within the psychiatric field. However, architecture and design characteristics of a mental healthcare facility have not adapted to meet the demands. In addressing numerous aspects related to psychiatric care, a new hospital design needs to emerge in order to better serve those in need of treatment related to mental and behavioral health disorders. The design of a Mental and Behavioral Health Facility should focus on and incorporate recent healthcare design theories, such as Evidence-based Design and Biophilic Design Theories. The integration of current theories will aid in the development of a healing environment that will support the successful functioning of the facility and patient/family treatment. Facility designs must consider staff areas, inpatient and outpatient care, rehabilitation and family/patient education, as integral components that contribute to the treatment of mental health disorders and illness. M.S. in Architecture, December 2012 Show less
