Teen mental health is on the decline. Fortunately, there are several effective mental health treatment options available – including residential care. 

Residential programs for teens offer targeted mental health care for adolescents in an environment where teens can really focus on health and healing. Residential facilities are more intensive than outpatient care or general therapy. They’re also more comprehensive, providing daily therapy and helping teens learn and practice healthy mental health strategies. 

Learn more about what it entails below and why, for many, it’s the best option on the path to recovery. 

What is a Residential Treatment Center for Teens?

A residential treatment center for teens offers mental health therapy in a home-like setting and is just below inpatient hospitalization on the spectrum of care. 

Residential programs generally run from 30 to 90 days, during which teens live at the facility and receive regular treatment services from a highly trained staff, many of whom are available around the clock. Services usually include:

• Individual and group counseling
• School assistance
• Behavior modification techniques
• Dual diagnosis support

Intensive residential programs are intended for teens and young adults who are struggling with one or more serious mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, mood disorders, or substance use disorders. They can also offer treatment for self-harm behaviors. 

Is Residential Treatment Effective? Yes! Here’s Why…

Residential care can be an investment for families. When you’re deciding if it’s worth it, it helps to understand the benefits for teens and how residential care supports long-term success in recovery. 

Top-Tier Staff

Residential treatment centers are staffed by a range of qualified professionals, including psychiatrists, licensed nurses and therapists, and dedicated teachers and directors. These individuals are passionate about the work they do and bring expertise and experience to residential treatment that isn’t always available at lower levels of care. 

Structure and Routine

Teens are provided with predictable daily routines that offer stability during an otherwise tough transition. As a result, many find it easier to focus on what they’re trying to achieve and actively work toward more positive outcomes.

Specialized and Attentive Care

Residential treatment tailors treatment to the specific needs of each individual. This is less feasible in an outpatient setting but necessary for teens dealing with severe mental health issues. 

Minimized Distractions

By living on-site, teens are removed from environments and social circles that may be contributing to their struggles. This separation allows teens to focus solely on their recovery without distractions, triggers, or peer pressure. 

Skill Building and Personal Development

Because they are so immersive, residential programs allow teens to go beyond the basics when it comes to their treatment. This includes the development of essential skills related to problem-solving, conflict resolution, and communication – all of which are vital for personal growth outside of treatment. 

Peer Support

Residential care often entails group therapy, peer mentoring, and peer-led activities. These foster mutual support and understanding among patients and help teens feel less isolated. They’re also key to self-empowerment, giving each patient a role in the shared environment and a built-in system of support.

Family Involvement

The role of the family is well-recognized in residential mental health care, and many facilities include family therapy and workshops as part of their programs. This helps heal and strengthen family dynamics and is important for supporting a teen’s recovery post-discharge. 

Aftercare Planning

Effective residential facilities work hard to prepare teens for reintegration into their everyday lives. This is done through detailed transition plans, plus access to aftercare support like therapy, support groups, and alumni networks. 

Choosing a Teen Residential Treatment Center

Before committing to a residential program for your teen, make sure you:

• Talk to your teen about their needs and preferences
• Contact prospective centers to discuss specifics
• Attend informational meetings or calls
• Tour the desired facility
• Verify insurance coverage

Following these steps will help ensure you find the best fit and will save you the trouble of having to change course later. 

Qualified Teen Mental Health Care at Ridge RTC

Just because a teen is struggling with their mental health doesn’t mean they can’t go on to live a healthy, fulfilling life. As one of the top adolescent residential treatment centers in the U.S., Ridge RTC is here to help your child however we can, offering exceptional residential care at our New Hampshire and Maine facilities. Get more information on treatment admissions and insurance verification, and check out frequently asked questions for additional guidance.