Teens & Adolescent Residential Treatment Centers in Valencia, CA

Photo of Luana Olavarria - New U Therapy Center & Family Services/ IOP, Treatment Center
New U Therapy Center & Family Services/ IOP
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
We use innovative and personalized approaches for IOP/PHP Substance/Trauma clients! We are a one-stop-shop clinic with all services under the same roof such as psychiatry, psychotherapy, ketamine assisted psychotherapy, MAT, Spravato. We coordinate all services in the best interest of each client before, during and after the IOP program for additional support and continuation of the care. We also can find mental health support for family members so the whole family system unit receives an adequate guidance and treatment. Our psychiatric services as permanent within the clinic virtually and in person. Our Veterans' mental health program provides ketamine assisted psychotherapy as additional service to the IOP. Our Substance Use IOP program is supported by the MAT service during and after the completion of the program. Each IOP/PHP client has individual therapy on top of the group therapy to work on your own traumas, blocks, substance and drugs dependance, anxiety and depression. Our Hybrid in person and virtual programs available in CA. To check the program's details or run your insurance eligibility, please contact us at 818 697 4180
We use innovative and personalized approaches for IOP/PHP Substance/Trauma clients! We are a one-stop-shop clinic with all services under the same roof such as psychiatry, psychotherapy, ketamine assisted psychotherapy, MAT, Spravato. We coordinate all services in the best interest of each client before, during and after the IOP program for additional support and continuation of the care. We also can find mental health support for family members so the whole family system unit receives an adequate guidance and treatment. Our psychiatric services as permanent within the clinic virtually and in person. Our Veterans' mental health program provides ketamine assisted psychotherapy as additional service to the IOP. Our Substance Use IOP program is supported by the MAT service during and after the completion of the program. Each IOP/PHP client has individual therapy on top of the group therapy to work on your own traumas, blocks, substance and drugs dependance, anxiety and depression. Our Hybrid in person and virtual programs available in CA. To check the program's details or run your insurance eligibility, please contact us at 818 697 4180
(661) 451-7398 View (661) 451-7398
Photo of Alissa Whiteley - ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, Treatment Center, PhDs, LMFTs, LCSWs, AMFTs, ACSWs
ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers
Treatment Center
Serves Area
ROWI is a comprehensive mental health facility for teens ages 12-17. We are clinician-owned and operated, with 25+ locations across Southern California. Our program includes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and psychiatric care. In addition, we provide art, fitness, mindfulness, music, UCLA's "PEERS" social skills program, and other therapies to provide a holistic approach to care. We offer full-day (Partial Hospitalization) and after-school (Intensive Outpatient) services for teens experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidal ideation, school avoidance, ADHD, trauma, gender identity issues, and more.
ROWI is a comprehensive mental health facility for teens ages 12-17. We are clinician-owned and operated, with 25+ locations across Southern California. Our program includes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and psychiatric care. In addition, we provide art, fitness, mindfulness, music, UCLA's "PEERS" social skills program, and other therapies to provide a holistic approach to care. We offer full-day (Partial Hospitalization) and after-school (Intensive Outpatient) services for teens experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidal ideation, school avoidance, ADHD, trauma, gender identity issues, and more.
(805) 793-0892 View (805) 793-0892
Photo of Emily Pedersen - Clear Behavioral Health - Mental Health Services, Treatment Center
At Clear Behavioral Health, our outpatient programs support teens and adults struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or other emotional difficulties. We create personalized treatment plans tailored to you, providing therapy, support, and coping strategies in a flexible, outpatient setting. We focus on helping you or your loved one heal, build resilience, and regain balance in daily life. Reach out today to start your path to recovery with expert guidance and care.
At Clear Behavioral Health, our outpatient programs support teens and adults struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or other emotional difficulties. We create personalized treatment plans tailored to you, providing therapy, support, and coping strategies in a flexible, outpatient setting. We focus on helping you or your loved one heal, build resilience, and regain balance in daily life. Reach out today to start your path to recovery with expert guidance and care.
(661) 384-8295 View (661) 384-8295

More Treatment Centers Nearby

Photo of Lindsey Rae Ackerman - Clear Behavioral Health Outpatient Mental Health , Treatment Center
At Clear Behavioral Health in Los Angeles, we support teens and adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use and want to reclaim stability and hope. Our flexible outpatient programs are in-network and combine personalized therapy, evidence-based care, and holistic support, allowing you to heal, build resilience, and return to life with confidence. Whether you’re looking for IOP, regular outpatient sessions, or support after more intensive care, we’re here to help you — you don’t have to face this alone.
At Clear Behavioral Health in Los Angeles, we support teens and adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use and want to reclaim stability and hope. Our flexible outpatient programs are in-network and combine personalized therapy, evidence-based care, and holistic support, allowing you to heal, build resilience, and return to life with confidence. Whether you’re looking for IOP, regular outpatient sessions, or support after more intensive care, we’re here to help you — you don’t have to face this alone.
(310) 893-6715 View (310) 893-6715
Photo of Ian Wolds - Muir Wood Teen Treatment, Treatment Center, PsyD
Muir Wood Teen Treatment
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Hope starts here— help for your teen, support for your family. Muir Wood Teen Treatment specializes in treating primary mental health, substance use disorders, and trauma. Our early reputation was built on dual-diagnosis expertise, and we have become truly exceptional by grounding that expertise in a broader foundation of trauma-informed mental health.
Hope starts here— help for your teen, support for your family. Muir Wood Teen Treatment specializes in treating primary mental health, substance use disorders, and trauma. Our early reputation was built on dual-diagnosis expertise, and we have become truly exceptional by grounding that expertise in a broader foundation of trauma-informed mental health.
(951) 720-2803 View (951) 720-2803
Photo of Dr. Eda Gorbis - Westwood Institute for Anxiety Disorders, Inc., Treatment Center, PhD, LMFT
The Westwood Institute for Anxiety Disorders, Inc. was founded in response to the lack of expertise and successful treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). In 1994, upon completing her training with Dr. Edna Foa, an internationally renowned authority on the psychopathology and treatment of anxiety, Dr. Gorbis was granted the use of Dr. Foa's intensive method involving prolonged and repeated exposures and response prevention (ERP) for treating OCD. Dr. Gorbis had much success treating patients at the UCLA OCD Outpatient Program with the intensive ERP method, and many patients suffering from OCD came from around the world to seek this treatment for their debilitating condition. In 1996, Dr. Gorbis began working with Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz, and continued treating OCD patients using mindful awareness training and the 4-step method. Dr. Gorbis later integrated part of the 4-step method and mindful awareness training with the intensive ERP method in her attempt to improve treatment outcome.
The Westwood Institute for Anxiety Disorders, Inc. was founded in response to the lack of expertise and successful treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). In 1994, upon completing her training with Dr. Edna Foa, an internationally renowned authority on the psychopathology and treatment of anxiety, Dr. Gorbis was granted the use of Dr. Foa's intensive method involving prolonged and repeated exposures and response prevention (ERP) for treating OCD. Dr. Gorbis had much success treating patients at the UCLA OCD Outpatient Program with the intensive ERP method, and many patients suffering from OCD came from around the world to seek this treatment for their debilitating condition. In 1996, Dr. Gorbis began working with Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz, and continued treating OCD patients using mindful awareness training and the 4-step method. Dr. Gorbis later integrated part of the 4-step method and mindful awareness training with the intensive ERP method in her attempt to improve treatment outcome.
(323) 203-1982 View (323) 203-1982
Photo of Kristin Kim - Well Equipped, Treatment Center
Well Equipped
Treatment Center
Online Only
Well Equipped is a virtual DBT-based intensive program designed to help individuals learn and apply DBT skills to improve their everyday lives. If you’ve found that traditional outpatient therapy hasn’t led to the change you’re seeking, you may simply need more tools. Our program focuses on the application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills to help you: Regulate emotions, Tolerate distress and Navigate Crisis, Improve communication and interpersonal skills and Replace unhelpful coping strategies with supportive, skillful ones. We’ll work closely with your current outpatient providers to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
Well Equipped is a virtual DBT-based intensive program designed to help individuals learn and apply DBT skills to improve their everyday lives. If you’ve found that traditional outpatient therapy hasn’t led to the change you’re seeking, you may simply need more tools. Our program focuses on the application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills to help you: Regulate emotions, Tolerate distress and Navigate Crisis, Improve communication and interpersonal skills and Replace unhelpful coping strategies with supportive, skillful ones. We’ll work closely with your current outpatient providers to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
(347) 797-3751 View (347) 797-3751
Alpine Academy
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Alpine Academy students often face severe anxiety and depression, making it hard to succeed at home, school, and with friends. Many have experienced trauma and struggle to express overwhelming emotions. Though typically bright, emotional challenges can disrupt classroom success and peer relationships. Students may withdraw from school and social activities, turning to social media or gaming instead. They tend to internalize their pain, with some using self-harm or suicidal behaviors as coping methods. Despite these struggles, they usually want to reconnect with their hobbies and interests.
Alpine Academy students often face severe anxiety and depression, making it hard to succeed at home, school, and with friends. Many have experienced trauma and struggle to express overwhelming emotions. Though typically bright, emotional challenges can disrupt classroom success and peer relationships. Students may withdraw from school and social activities, turning to social media or gaming instead. They tend to internalize their pain, with some using self-harm or suicidal behaviors as coping methods. Despite these struggles, they usually want to reconnect with their hobbies and interests.
(435) 220-3762 View (435) 220-3762
Photo of Karra Gross - Teen Anxiety & Depression Treatment at Evolve, Treatment Center
When severe anxiety, isolation, or depression disrupts your teen's daily life, a supportive change of environment can be life-saving. Our immersive residential program offers an exclusive 6-bed retreat to step away from triggers and focus on deep healing. At Evolve, we provide 24/7 supervision and compassionate, evidence-based therapies tailored to complex mood disorders. Our continuum of care includes short-term residential treatment as well as structured outpatient support through our full-day Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) to help your teen regain control.
When severe anxiety, isolation, or depression disrupts your teen's daily life, a supportive change of environment can be life-saving. Our immersive residential program offers an exclusive 6-bed retreat to step away from triggers and focus on deep healing. At Evolve, we provide 24/7 supervision and compassionate, evidence-based therapies tailored to complex mood disorders. Our continuum of care includes short-term residential treatment as well as structured outpatient support through our full-day Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) to help your teen regain control.
(855) 349-8442 View (855) 349-8442
Photo of Paradigm San Rafael - Paradigm Treatment - Teen Residential Treatment, Treatment Center
At Paradigm Treatment, we have been providing residential treatment for teenagers (12-17) for over 12 years. Our program focuses on addressing mental health issues during this crucial developmental phase. While most teen treatment is focused on containing and changing behaviors, our goal is to identify the core issues driving negative coping skills. We help clients build self-awareness, heal from past traumas, learn coping strategies, life skills, and interpersonal tactics. Our skilled medical, clinical, and psychological staff work closely with each client, ensuring personalized support from the moment they enter our program. At Paradigm, we empower teens to build meaningful lives and equip them with skills to thrive beyond the completion of our program.
At Paradigm Treatment, we have been providing residential treatment for teenagers (12-17) for over 12 years. Our program focuses on addressing mental health issues during this crucial developmental phase. While most teen treatment is focused on containing and changing behaviors, our goal is to identify the core issues driving negative coping skills. We help clients build self-awareness, heal from past traumas, learn coping strategies, life skills, and interpersonal tactics. Our skilled medical, clinical, and psychological staff work closely with each client, ensuring personalized support from the moment they enter our program. At Paradigm, we empower teens to build meaningful lives and equip them with skills to thrive beyond the completion of our program.
(818) 369-3988 View (818) 369-3988
Photo of Alix Robinson - California Counseling Clinics, Treatment Center, MA, LMFT, PhD, PsyD
Therapy That Suits Your Needs! Transforming lives by providing timely, individualized and comprehensive mental healthcare services tailored your needs and unique situation. We offer long-term therapy, brief therapy, group therapy, psychological assessments, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Social Anxiety and Solution-Centered Sessions.
Therapy That Suits Your Needs! Transforming lives by providing timely, individualized and comprehensive mental healthcare services tailored your needs and unique situation. We offer long-term therapy, brief therapy, group therapy, psychological assessments, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Social Anxiety and Solution-Centered Sessions.
(805) 410-8211 View (805) 410-8211
Photo of Amanda Urban - Mission Harbor Behavioral Health, Treatment Center
Mission Harbor Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Los Angeles, CA 90066
All individuals are unique and require different treatment programs. We provide our clients with the tools to become the architects of their lives through wellness of the mind, body and spirit. Mission Harbor Behavioral Health is a dual diagnosis recovery program for alcohol and substance abuse located in beautiful Santa Barbara, CA. Our boutique style of treatment gives Mission Harbor clients a unique treatment opportunity. Designed by experienced and passionate professionals, our intention is to meet the individual needs of those wanting to transform their lives and pursue a journey of personal healing.
All individuals are unique and require different treatment programs. We provide our clients with the tools to become the architects of their lives through wellness of the mind, body and spirit. Mission Harbor Behavioral Health is a dual diagnosis recovery program for alcohol and substance abuse located in beautiful Santa Barbara, CA. Our boutique style of treatment gives Mission Harbor clients a unique treatment opportunity. Designed by experienced and passionate professionals, our intention is to meet the individual needs of those wanting to transform their lives and pursue a journey of personal healing.
(310) 861-7335 View (310) 861-7335
Photo of Samantha Finnie - Mission Prep Teen Treatment, Treatment Center
Mission Prep Teen Treatment
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mission Prep California helps teens aged 13-17 facing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. Our residential program offers a secure, structured space where teens can heal and build the skills needed for lasting recovery.
Mission Prep California helps teens aged 13-17 facing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. Our residential program offers a secure, structured space where teens can heal and build the skills needed for lasting recovery.
(424) 667-4716 View (424) 667-4716
Photo of Paradigm Malibu - Paradigm Treatment - Teen Residential Treatment, Treatment Center
At Paradigm Treatment, we have been providing residential treatment for teenagers (12-17) for over 12 years. Our program focuses on addressing mental health issues during this crucial developmental phase. While most teen treatment is focused on containing and changing behaviors, our goal is to identify the core issues driving negative coping skills. We help clients build self-awareness, heal from past traumas, learn coping strategies, life skills, and interpersonal tactics. Our skilled medical, clinical, and psychological staff work closely with each client, ensuring personalized support from the moment they enter our program. At Paradigm, we empower teens to build meaningful lives and equip them with skills to thrive beyond the completion of our program.
At Paradigm Treatment, we have been providing residential treatment for teenagers (12-17) for over 12 years. Our program focuses on addressing mental health issues during this crucial developmental phase. While most teen treatment is focused on containing and changing behaviors, our goal is to identify the core issues driving negative coping skills. We help clients build self-awareness, heal from past traumas, learn coping strategies, life skills, and interpersonal tactics. Our skilled medical, clinical, and psychological staff work closely with each client, ensuring personalized support from the moment they enter our program. At Paradigm, we empower teens to build meaningful lives and equip them with skills to thrive beyond the completion of our program.
(310) 861-6864 View (310) 861-6864
Photo of Jennifer Lauren Rogge - Balance Treatment Ventura, Treatment Center, LMFT
Balance Treatment Ventura
Treatment Center
Calabasas, CA 91302
The goal of Balance Treatment Center Intensive Outpatient program is to provide our clients a path to long-term stability and well-being using a balanced approach that the clients will be able to follow in their daily lives. Balance IOP provides treatment, support and education to those struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, oppositional defiance, psychosis, and substance abuse issues including dual diagnosis. Those who enter our program will be welcomed into a supportive and structured group environment, consisting of people struggling with similar challenges, where they will be made to feel comfortable expressing their struggles and concerns. Our team of seasoned clinicians offers a variety of clinical backgrounds to expose our clients to a range of therapeutic approaches so that our collective clinical knowledge can best suit each client's unique needs.
The goal of Balance Treatment Center Intensive Outpatient program is to provide our clients a path to long-term stability and well-being using a balanced approach that the clients will be able to follow in their daily lives. Balance IOP provides treatment, support and education to those struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, oppositional defiance, psychosis, and substance abuse issues including dual diagnosis. Those who enter our program will be welcomed into a supportive and structured group environment, consisting of people struggling with similar challenges, where they will be made to feel comfortable expressing their struggles and concerns. Our team of seasoned clinicians offers a variety of clinical backgrounds to expose our clients to a range of therapeutic approaches so that our collective clinical knowledge can best suit each client's unique needs.
(805) 424-5402 View (805) 424-5402
Photo of Ian Wolds - Muir Wood Teen Treatment, Treatment Center, PsyD
Muir Wood Teen Treatment
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Hope starts here— help for your teen, support for your family. Muir Wood Teen Treatment specializes in treating primary mental health, substance use disorders, and trauma. Our early reputation was built on dual-diagnosis expertise, and we have become truly exceptional by grounding that expertise in a broader foundation of trauma-informed mental health.
Hope starts here— help for your teen, support for your family. Muir Wood Teen Treatment specializes in treating primary mental health, substance use disorders, and trauma. Our early reputation was built on dual-diagnosis expertise, and we have become truly exceptional by grounding that expertise in a broader foundation of trauma-informed mental health.
(951) 720-2767 View (951) 720-2767
Photo of Kara Gross - Evolve DBT Residential Treatment Center for Teens, Treatment Center
When severe mood dysregulation or self-harm requires more than weekly therapy, our specialized DBT residential program offers the immersive care teens need. In a safe, exclusive 6-bed setting, our clinical team helps adolescents rediscover hope and heal. We provide 24/7 supervision and highly personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to your teen's unique challenges. Evolve also offers structured outpatient step-down support through our full-day Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), ensuring compassionate care and meaningful progress at every step of their journey.
When severe mood dysregulation or self-harm requires more than weekly therapy, our specialized DBT residential program offers the immersive care teens need. In a safe, exclusive 6-bed setting, our clinical team helps adolescents rediscover hope and heal. We provide 24/7 supervision and highly personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to your teen's unique challenges. Evolve also offers structured outpatient step-down support through our full-day Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), ensuring compassionate care and meaningful progress at every step of their journey.
(818) 614-5243 View (818) 614-5243
Photo of Brooke Hailey - New Directions Eating Disorders Center, Treatment Center, LMFT, PhD
New Directions is now offering a group treatment telehealth program. We can now provide treatment for clients who live anywhere within the State of California. Telehealth is an innovative way to participate in our group treatment program and allows clients to connect with the therapist and one another in real time. It is easy to use and requires a computer with webcam , speakers and internet access. All communications are confidential and comply with privacy standards. We offer: Intimate group settings with a limit of 8 in a group 15 weeks intensive outpatient treatment, groups meet 3 times a week Group therapy facilitation by a licensed therapist Consultation with a nutritionist and/or registered dietitian Coordination with your primary care provider and/or therapist Individualized food plans prepared by our nutritionist. We offer groups for adults as well as an adolescent group. Our program integrates mental health, physical health, and we focus on depression, anxiety and eating disorders including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating.
New Directions is now offering a group treatment telehealth program. We can now provide treatment for clients who live anywhere within the State of California. Telehealth is an innovative way to participate in our group treatment program and allows clients to connect with the therapist and one another in real time. It is easy to use and requires a computer with webcam , speakers and internet access. All communications are confidential and comply with privacy standards. We offer: Intimate group settings with a limit of 8 in a group 15 weeks intensive outpatient treatment, groups meet 3 times a week Group therapy facilitation by a licensed therapist Consultation with a nutritionist and/or registered dietitian Coordination with your primary care provider and/or therapist Individualized food plans prepared by our nutritionist. We offer groups for adults as well as an adolescent group. Our program integrates mental health, physical health, and we focus on depression, anxiety and eating disorders including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating.
(747) 239-4813 View (747) 239-4813
Photo of House Of Zen - House of Zen, Treatment Center
House of Zen
Treatment Center
West Hills, CA 91307
Free 24/7 Hotline & Assessments. Take the first step toward healing - your call is confidential and life-changing. At House of Zen in California, they provide holistic treatment and mental health care, promoting balance, peace, and lasting recovery. Their accredited rehab center offers a full continuum of care for substance use and co-occurring conditions in a private, serene setting. Programs include medical detox, residential care, evidence-based therapies, and holistic practices, helping people across the U.S. and beyond build fulfilling, addiction-free lives.
Free 24/7 Hotline & Assessments. Take the first step toward healing - your call is confidential and life-changing. At House of Zen in California, they provide holistic treatment and mental health care, promoting balance, peace, and lasting recovery. Their accredited rehab center offers a full continuum of care for substance use and co-occurring conditions in a private, serene setting. Programs include medical detox, residential care, evidence-based therapies, and holistic practices, helping people across the U.S. and beyond build fulfilling, addiction-free lives.
(818) 699-0221 View (818) 699-0221
Photo of Emily Pedersen - Clear Behavioral Health - Mental Health Services, Treatment Center
At Clear Behavioral Health, our outpatient programs support teens and adults struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or other emotional difficulties. We create personalized treatment plans tailored to you, providing therapy, support, and coping strategies in a flexible, outpatient setting. We focus on helping you or your loved one heal, build resilience, and regain balance in daily life. Reach out today to start your path to recovery with expert guidance and care.
At Clear Behavioral Health, our outpatient programs support teens and adults struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or other emotional difficulties. We create personalized treatment plans tailored to you, providing therapy, support, and coping strategies in a flexible, outpatient setting. We focus on helping you or your loved one heal, build resilience, and regain balance in daily life. Reach out today to start your path to recovery with expert guidance and care.
(747) 302-2234 View (747) 302-2234

See more therapy options for Valencia

FAQ - Teens & Adolescent Residential Treatment Centers
What types of psychiatric treatment programs are available for teenagers?
Psychiatric treatment programs for teens generally fall into two broad categories: inpatient/residential programs and outpatient programs. In inpatient and residential programs, a teen lives at a treatment facility full-time. In outpatient programs, a teen lives at home and attends treatment on a scheduled, more part-time basis. Inpatient and residential programs are the most intensive level of care, while outpatient options are less intensive and include partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs). Both PHPs and IOPs involve structured therapy sessions multiple times per week without requiring the teen to leave home overnight. The right level of care for a teen generally depends on the severity of their symptoms, how safe they are at home, and whether less intensive treatment options have already been tried.

What is the difference between inpatient and residential treatment for teenagers?
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, inpatient and residential treatment are meaningfully different. Inpatient care is shorter-term and medically monitored, thus making it designed primarily for acute stabilization, such as when a teen is in crisis or at immediate risk of harm. Residential treatment, by contrast, is longer-term. It often takes place in more home-like setting, rather than a medical setting, and integrates individual mental health treatment, group therapy, and school in a single setting. Residential treatment is most appropriate for teens who need intensive support but do not require the level of medical oversight that inpatient hospitalization provides.

How does teen residential treatment work?
Upon admission to a residential treatment program, a teen typically undergoes an assessment that shapes their individualized treatment plan and determines what therapies are most appropriate for them. If needed, the teen may also undergo a psychiatric assessment to determine an appropriate diagnosis and/or provide guidance on medication.Days at residential treatment programs are very structured and typically include individual and group therapy, community activities, and academic support. Treatment typically draws on evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps teens identify and change unhelpful thought patterns, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which builds skills in emotional regulation and distress tolerance. Some programs also incorporate experiential approaches like art therapy or mindfulness-based practices alongside other modalities.

What should I look for in a residential treatment center for my teen?
Program quality in teen residential treatment varies significantly, so it's important to do thorough research before committing to a program. A good first step is confirming that any program you consider is licensed by the relevant state agency and accredited by a recognized body, such as The Joint Commission. From there, ask each program specific questions, such as who the treating clinicians are and what credentials the hold, how an individualized treatment plan is developed, and what the aftercare and step-down plan looks like after discharge. Red flags to watch for include therapy delivered primarily by unlicensed staff, restricted contact between parents and their teen, a treatment approach that does not adapt to individual progress, and high-pressure recruitment tactics that discourage you from taking time to evaluate other program options.

How do you choose the right residential treatment center?
The Psychology Today Treatment Center directory is a useful starting point for identifying treatment facilities by allowing you to filter providers by location, age group, condition, and insurance coverage. It is worth considering whether your teen needs a specialized program and to filter the Directory accordingly. Some residential centers, for instance, focus specifically on eating disorders, substance use, or trauma, and a general psychiatric program may not be equipped to provide the level of care these conditions require. Once you have a list of programs that my be a good fit, contact each program directly to ask specific questions and, if possible, request a site visit. It is also important to verify insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs prior to choosing a program.