Teens & Adolescent Residential Treatment Centers in California

Photo of Kara Gross - Evolve DBT Residential Treatment Center for Teens, Treatment Center
Evolve Treatment Centers supports adolescents ages 12-17 struggling with mental health, addiction, and/or behavioral issues. Evolve Vanalden is a Comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Residential Treatment Center: the first of its kind in California and one of only a handful in the country. DBT is an evidence-based treatment that has been proven to help reduce emotion dysregulation, self-harming behavior, and/or suicidal ideation. We treat teens diagnosed with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, addiction, or other issues. Evolve's robust clinical program includes individual and family therapy (at least five scheduled 1-hour sessions a week), DBT Skills Training Groups (4 times a week), and skills coaching (24/7). Teens learn and practice the four core skills of DBT: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. At Evolve, we don't just learn DBT, we live it. With the help of our specialized staff, teens practice and apply their DBT skills at all opportunities throughout the day.
Evolve Treatment Centers supports adolescents ages 12-17 struggling with mental health, addiction, and/or behavioral issues. Evolve Vanalden is a Comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Residential Treatment Center: the first of its kind in California and one of only a handful in the country. DBT is an evidence-based treatment that has been proven to help reduce emotion dysregulation, self-harming behavior, and/or suicidal ideation. We treat teens diagnosed with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, addiction, or other issues. Evolve's robust clinical program includes individual and family therapy (at least five scheduled 1-hour sessions a week), DBT Skills Training Groups (4 times a week), and skills coaching (24/7). Teens learn and practice the four core skills of DBT: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. At Evolve, we don't just learn DBT, we live it. With the help of our specialized staff, teens practice and apply their DBT skills at all opportunities throughout the day.
(844) 235-4714 View (844) 235-4714
Photo of Newport Newport - Newport Academy Teen and Adolescent Residential, Treatment Center
Newport Academy is the leading provider of behavioral health treatment for children ages 7–11 and teens ages 12–18. Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use. Individualized treatment plans include medical and psychiatric care, strengths-based academics, and experiential modalities including, art, music, yoga, and outdoor adventure therapy. With residential and outpatient locations nationwide and partnerships with major insurance providers, we make quality care accessible.
Newport Academy is the leading provider of behavioral health treatment for children ages 7–11 and teens ages 12–18. Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use. Individualized treatment plans include medical and psychiatric care, strengths-based academics, and experiential modalities including, art, music, yoga, and outdoor adventure therapy. With residential and outpatient locations nationwide and partnerships with major insurance providers, we make quality care accessible.
(714) 627-4679 View (714) 627-4679
Photo of Kara Gross - Evolve Residential Treatment Centers for Teens, Treatment Center, LMFT
Evolve offers proven, evidence-based therapy programs for teens struggling with mental health, substance use, or behavioral challenges. Our short-term residential treatment center (RTC) provides 24/7 supervision and individualized care in a safe, supportive setting. With only six teens in the program at a time, we deliver highly focused and personalized treatment. We also provide structured outpatient therapy through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Families can expect compassionate care and meaningful progress at every step.
Evolve offers proven, evidence-based therapy programs for teens struggling with mental health, substance use, or behavioral challenges. Our short-term residential treatment center (RTC) provides 24/7 supervision and individualized care in a safe, supportive setting. With only six teens in the program at a time, we deliver highly focused and personalized treatment. We also provide structured outpatient therapy through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Families can expect compassionate care and meaningful progress at every step.
(855) 355-6890 View (855) 355-6890
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.
(818) 369-3582 View (818) 369-3582
Photo of Ian Wolds - Muir Wood Teen Treatment, Treatment Center, PsyD
Muir Wood Teen Treatment
Treatment Center
Petaluma, CA 94952
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.
(707) 394-9633 View (707) 394-9633
Photo of Christina Khouie - Enhance Health Group | Mental Health Treatment OC, Treatment Center
In the heart of Orange County, California, our compassionate treatment center stands as a beacon of hope for individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. Enhance is committed to transforming lives through our comprehensive, evidence-based therapy programs, meticulously designed and delivered by our team of seasoned clinicians. Each therapy modality we offer, from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and beyond, is rooted in rigorous scientific research, ensuring the most effective treatment outcomes for our clients. Our holistic approach not only addresses addiction and psychiatric disorders but also focuses on fostering resilience, self-awareness, and long-term recovery. At our facility, clients find a supportive, therapeutic environment where healing is nurtured, and every individual’s journey towards wellness is honored. Our commitment to excellence in mental health and addiction treatment makes us a trusted leader in Orange County, dedicated to helping our clients achieve and maintain a life of sobriety, balance, and fulfillment.
In the heart of Orange County, California, our compassionate treatment center stands as a beacon of hope for individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. Enhance is committed to transforming lives through our comprehensive, evidence-based therapy programs, meticulously designed and delivered by our team of seasoned clinicians. Each therapy modality we offer, from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and beyond, is rooted in rigorous scientific research, ensuring the most effective treatment outcomes for our clients. Our holistic approach not only addresses addiction and psychiatric disorders but also focuses on fostering resilience, self-awareness, and long-term recovery. At our facility, clients find a supportive, therapeutic environment where healing is nurtured, and every individual’s journey towards wellness is honored. Our commitment to excellence in mental health and addiction treatment makes us a trusted leader in Orange County, dedicated to helping our clients achieve and maintain a life of sobriety, balance, and fulfillment.
(562) 222-5766 View (562) 222-5766
Photo of Tabari Zahir - Lamps of Light Project, Treatment Center
Lamps of Light Project
Treatment Center
Riverside, CA 92506
Lamps of Light serves the SEMENA (Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, North/Sub-Saharan African) and Muslim communities, including families, youth, and low-income individuals. Clients face complex challenges like trauma, mental health disorders, and both chemical and behavioral addictions (such as gaming and pornography). Their primary needs include culturally and religiously competent care that integrates Islamic principles with evidence-based treatment. They require stigma-free resources and structured recovery environments to foster stability and long-term healing
Lamps of Light serves the SEMENA (Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, North/Sub-Saharan African) and Muslim communities, including families, youth, and low-income individuals. Clients face complex challenges like trauma, mental health disorders, and both chemical and behavioral addictions (such as gaming and pornography). Their primary needs include culturally and religiously competent care that integrates Islamic principles with evidence-based treatment. They require stigma-free resources and structured recovery environments to foster stability and long-term healing
(909) 443-2484 View (909) 443-2484
Photo of Admission Team - Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program, Treatment Center
Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program
Treatment Center
Brentwood, CA 94513
Since 1997, Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program has been helping thousands of patients build the confidence and skills they need to better navigate life’s challenges. We look at the person, not the diagnosis. We reveal what’s possible for those who have experienced a history of depression, anxiety or other mood disorders. With evidence-based treatment, complementary modalities, family therapy and ongoing support, we utilize our world-class continuum of care to turn lives around.
Since 1997, Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program has been helping thousands of patients build the confidence and skills they need to better navigate life’s challenges. We look at the person, not the diagnosis. We reveal what’s possible for those who have experienced a history of depression, anxiety or other mood disorders. With evidence-based treatment, complementary modalities, family therapy and ongoing support, we utilize our world-class continuum of care to turn lives around.
(833) 717-4536 View (833) 717-4536
Photo of Heidi Susanne Allison - Nate's Place, A Wellness and Recovery Center, Treatment Center, LCSW
Nate’s Place, A Wellness and Recovery Center, provides services and programs for at-risk teens and young adults (AGES 13-25), who are at risk of substance misuse, abuse and/or mental health challenges, and/or are striving to attain and maintain sobriety and stable mental health in a safe, healthy manner. Services include weekly 1:1 Peer Support Recovery Coaching, 20+ Healthy Recreational Activities, Group Counseling/Education, and AA/NA for Young Persons. Nate's Place is a safe, healthy, clubhouse-like environment providing a sense of community and belonging for teens and young adults to live a stable, clean and sober life. Nate’s Place provides prevention, early intervention and aftercare services to participants. education/support for families. No current Cost, and we provide FREE transportation.
Nate’s Place, A Wellness and Recovery Center, provides services and programs for at-risk teens and young adults (AGES 13-25), who are at risk of substance misuse, abuse and/or mental health challenges, and/or are striving to attain and maintain sobriety and stable mental health in a safe, healthy manner. Services include weekly 1:1 Peer Support Recovery Coaching, 20+ Healthy Recreational Activities, Group Counseling/Education, and AA/NA for Young Persons. Nate's Place is a safe, healthy, clubhouse-like environment providing a sense of community and belonging for teens and young adults to live a stable, clean and sober life. Nate’s Place provides prevention, early intervention and aftercare services to participants. education/support for families. No current Cost, and we provide FREE transportation.
(805) 590-5818 View (805) 590-5818
Photo of Aleshea Jones - Embark Behavioral Health , Treatment Center
Embark Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Newport Beach, CA 92660
We know how difficult it can be to see your son or daughter struggling with severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation. Our partial hospitalization programs (PHP) and intensive outpatient programs (IOP) in Newport Beach, California are designed to support adolescents, teens and young adults ages 10-28 of all genders facing these challenges. Our IOPs and PHPs provide flexible treatment that fits into your teen’s and family’s life, offering the intensive support they need while staying connected to home, school and family.
We know how difficult it can be to see your son or daughter struggling with severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation. Our partial hospitalization programs (PHP) and intensive outpatient programs (IOP) in Newport Beach, California are designed to support adolescents, teens and young adults ages 10-28 of all genders facing these challenges. Our IOPs and PHPs provide flexible treatment that fits into your teen’s and family’s life, offering the intensive support they need while staying connected to home, school and family.
(949) 785-2599 View (949) 785-2599
Photo of Nupur Jain - LGTC Group, Treatment Center
LGTC Group
Treatment Center
Campbell, CA 95008
We are offering intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization and residential programs for eating disorder and mental health for adults and adolescents.
We are offering intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization and residential programs for eating disorder and mental health for adults and adolescents.
(669) 200-2709 View (669) 200-2709
Photo of Admissions Department - Hemet Valley Recovery Center, Treatment Center
Hemet Valley Recovery Center
Treatment Center
Hemet, CA 92543
At HVRC, chemical dependency treatment and medical detoxification are provided in inpatient, outpatient, and long term residential settings. Our California addiction treatment program provides individualized care that offers a foundation for long term recovery. Our program provides a multitude of therapies to treat the physical, social, spiritual and psychological aspect of addiction. The treatment team at HVRC includes Physicians, Registered Nurses, Certified Counselors, and Adjunctive Therapists.
At HVRC, chemical dependency treatment and medical detoxification are provided in inpatient, outpatient, and long term residential settings. Our California addiction treatment program provides individualized care that offers a foundation for long term recovery. Our program provides a multitude of therapies to treat the physical, social, spiritual and psychological aspect of addiction. The treatment team at HVRC includes Physicians, Registered Nurses, Certified Counselors, and Adjunctive Therapists.
(866) 273-0868 View (866) 273-0868
Photo of Newport Marketing - Newport Academy Teen and Adolescent Outpatient, Treatment Center
Newport Academy is the leading provider of behavioral health treatment for children ages 7–11 and teens ages 12–18. Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use. Individualized treatment plans include medical and psychiatric care, strengths-based academics, and experiential modalities including, art, music, yoga, and outdoor adventure therapy. With residential and outpatient locations nationwide and partnerships with major insurance providers, we make quality care accessible.
Newport Academy is the leading provider of behavioral health treatment for children ages 7–11 and teens ages 12–18. Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use. Individualized treatment plans include medical and psychiatric care, strengths-based academics, and experiential modalities including, art, music, yoga, and outdoor adventure therapy. With residential and outpatient locations nationwide and partnerships with major insurance providers, we make quality care accessible.
(916) 264-9706 View (916) 264-9706
Photo of Our Admissions And Intake Team - Casa Pacifica Centers for Children & Families, Treatment Center
Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families provides Hope and Help to youth and families addressing concerns in social development, emotional regulation, grief, loss, and attachment. Through its array of nationally accredited programs such as Residential Therapeutic Care, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Intensive In-Home Behavioral Health Services, Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families is the leading provider of intensive therapeutic mental health care for youth ages 9 to 18 struggling with mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges when traditional outpatient interventions are not enough.
Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families provides Hope and Help to youth and families addressing concerns in social development, emotional regulation, grief, loss, and attachment. Through its array of nationally accredited programs such as Residential Therapeutic Care, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Intensive In-Home Behavioral Health Services, Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families is the leading provider of intensive therapeutic mental health care for youth ages 9 to 18 struggling with mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges when traditional outpatient interventions are not enough.
(805) 738-6578 View (805) 738-6578
Photo of David C. Agnew - TheraMind Center of Santa Barbara, Treatment Center, MD
We are a multi-disciplinary, outpatient clinic providing state-of-the-art treatments for patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (also known as Clinical Depression), Anxiety, PTSD, OCD and other behavioral conditions. The Center’s Board-certified neurologists and psychiatrists also treat Chronic Pain, Tinnitus, Neuropathy, Aphasia and a variety of other neurological conditions. The TheraMind®Center is one of several owned and operated by TheraMind Services, Inc., a leading national provider of advanced, high technology, non-drug and non-invasive treatment options.
We are a multi-disciplinary, outpatient clinic providing state-of-the-art treatments for patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (also known as Clinical Depression), Anxiety, PTSD, OCD and other behavioral conditions. The Center’s Board-certified neurologists and psychiatrists also treat Chronic Pain, Tinnitus, Neuropathy, Aphasia and a variety of other neurological conditions. The TheraMind®Center is one of several owned and operated by TheraMind Services, Inc., a leading national provider of advanced, high technology, non-drug and non-invasive treatment options.
(805) 243-1026 View (805) 243-1026
Photo of Nicole Burson - Omnia Recovery, Treatment Center
Omnia Recovery
Treatment Center
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Omnia Recovery is transforming the approach to seeking assistance for substance use disorder and mental health conditions at our advanced behavioral health center in Thousand Oaks. Our team possesses decades of combined professional and personal experience with addiction and mental health challenges. This ensures that you'll be in the company of individuals who genuinely comprehend and deeply care about the outcomes of your journey. Omnia Recovery serves the communities of Ventura County and upper Los Angeles County. We provide evidence-based mental health and addiction treatment in an outpatient setting. Individuals who suffer from a dual diagnosis can find comprehensive treatment here, as well as people just seeking help for addiction or a mental health disorder. We treat every mental health disorder from depression to schizophrenia.
Omnia Recovery is transforming the approach to seeking assistance for substance use disorder and mental health conditions at our advanced behavioral health center in Thousand Oaks. Our team possesses decades of combined professional and personal experience with addiction and mental health challenges. This ensures that you'll be in the company of individuals who genuinely comprehend and deeply care about the outcomes of your journey. Omnia Recovery serves the communities of Ventura County and upper Los Angeles County. We provide evidence-based mental health and addiction treatment in an outpatient setting. Individuals who suffer from a dual diagnosis can find comprehensive treatment here, as well as people just seeking help for addiction or a mental health disorder. We treat every mental health disorder from depression to schizophrenia.
(805) 973-0850 View (805) 973-0850
Photo of Tamson Overholtzer - Bright Road Recovery, Treatment Center, MS, MFT
Bright Road Recovery
Treatment Center
Claremont, CA 91711
Bright Road Recovery Eating Disorder & Treatment Center is located in the quaint Claremont Village area of Southern California. Part of the Bright Road difference is the team of skilled Licensed Therapists and Registered Dietitians, who individually tailor a treatment program based on the needs each client has when they come to us for treatment. A remarkable team of health professionals will assist you or your loved one during the recovery process, beginning with an initial assessment to understand which specific issues the client is struggling with right now. The Bright Road philosophy integrates recovery into the lives of Bright Road clients, helping men and women succeed in recovery so they can function more fully in important areas of their lives such as work, academics, and relationships.
Bright Road Recovery Eating Disorder & Treatment Center is located in the quaint Claremont Village area of Southern California. Part of the Bright Road difference is the team of skilled Licensed Therapists and Registered Dietitians, who individually tailor a treatment program based on the needs each client has when they come to us for treatment. A remarkable team of health professionals will assist you or your loved one during the recovery process, beginning with an initial assessment to understand which specific issues the client is struggling with right now. The Bright Road philosophy integrates recovery into the lives of Bright Road clients, helping men and women succeed in recovery so they can function more fully in important areas of their lives such as work, academics, and relationships.
(909) 748-5903 View (909) 748-5903
Photo of Kara Gross - Evolve Teen Dual Diagnosis Residential Treatment, Treatment Center
Evolve’s caring, customized approach helps teens break free from addiction and rebuild hope for a better future We offer therapeutic programs for teens, including short-term residential treatment. Our RTC for teens serves only six clients at a time, allowing for truly individualized care, 24/7 support and supervision, and evidence-based therapies. In addition, Evolve provides structured outpatient therapy for teens through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Rooted in compassion and connection, our teen treatment programs help adolescents heal and grow
Evolve’s caring, customized approach helps teens break free from addiction and rebuild hope for a better future We offer therapeutic programs for teens, including short-term residential treatment. Our RTC for teens serves only six clients at a time, allowing for truly individualized care, 24/7 support and supervision, and evidence-based therapies. In addition, Evolve provides structured outpatient therapy for teens through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Rooted in compassion and connection, our teen treatment programs help adolescents heal and grow
(916) 314-2623 View (916) 314-2623
Photo of Alissa Whiteley - ROWI Kids (ages 8-11) & ROWI Teen (ages 12-17), Treatment Center, PhDs, LMFTs, LCSWs, AMFTs, ACSWs
ROWI Sherman Oaks (ages 8-17) and ROWI West LA (ages 12-17) is a comprehensive mental health treatment program. ROWI is clinician-owned and operated, with 25+ centers across Southern CA. 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 treat clients experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidal ideation, school avoidance, ADHD, trauma, gender identity issues, and more.
ROWI Sherman Oaks (ages 8-17) and ROWI West LA (ages 12-17) is a comprehensive mental health treatment program. ROWI is clinician-owned and operated, with 25+ centers across Southern CA. 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 treat clients experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidal ideation, school avoidance, ADHD, trauma, gender identity issues, and more.
(818) 918-9872 View (818) 918-9872
Photo of Keith Valone - The Arroyos Treatment Centers, Treatment Center, PhD, PsyD, MSCP
The Arroyos Treatment Centers
Treatment Center
Pasadena, CA 91105
The Arroyos Psychological Health Center is a doctor-owned and operated primary mental health outpatient treatment company in Pasadena, California. Our mission is to provide you with outstanding care based on the latest scientific research and accepted standards of clinical practice. We work with you to create your own personalized treatment program. We then recommend the therapist on our team who is best suited to help you achieve your personal goals to live life well. Some of the key features of the Arroyos Model of treatment include the fact that all of our clinical staff are doctor who specialize in severe mental illness and the treatment of substance abuse. We offer many different types of psychotherapy in our evidence-based practice model. Our treatment team of clinical psychologists offers treatment across levels of care from outpatient to hospital care. For more information, please visit us at www.thearroyos.org.
The Arroyos Psychological Health Center is a doctor-owned and operated primary mental health outpatient treatment company in Pasadena, California. Our mission is to provide you with outstanding care based on the latest scientific research and accepted standards of clinical practice. We work with you to create your own personalized treatment program. We then recommend the therapist on our team who is best suited to help you achieve your personal goals to live life well. Some of the key features of the Arroyos Model of treatment include the fact that all of our clinical staff are doctor who specialize in severe mental illness and the treatment of substance abuse. We offer many different types of psychotherapy in our evidence-based practice model. Our treatment team of clinical psychologists offers treatment across levels of care from outpatient to hospital care. For more information, please visit us at www.thearroyos.org.
(877) 884-8272 View (877) 884-8272

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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.