Teens & Adolescent Residential Treatment Centers in Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Marcus Manning - Kind Waters Therapy, Treatment Center, MA, LPCC
Kind Waters Therapy
Treatment Center
Minneapolis, MN 55416
At Kind Waters Therapy, we proudly serve a diverse range of clients in the Twin Cities, focusing on adult adoptees, adults with ADHD/ADD, individuals managing stress, and couples seeking to strengthen their relationships. Our clients often face challenges such as anxiety, depression, racialized trauma, work-life imbalance, and the complexities of personal growth.
At Kind Waters Therapy, we proudly serve a diverse range of clients in the Twin Cities, focusing on adult adoptees, adults with ADHD/ADD, individuals managing stress, and couples seeking to strengthen their relationships. Our clients often face challenges such as anxiety, depression, racialized trauma, work-life imbalance, and the complexities of personal growth.
(651) 677-2926 View (651) 677-2926
Photo of John Brose - Associated Clinic of Psychology, Treatment Center
Associated Clinic of Psychology
Treatment Center
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Since 1980, Associated Clinic of Psychology has been known throughout Minnesota and Western Wisconsin as a leader in preventing, diagnosing, and treating mental health issues. ACP is committed to providing a comprehensive suite of mental health services, a single source for all of your mental healthcare needs. With over 200 clinicians, ACP provides: Individual Psychotherapy, Marriage Counseling, Family Counseling, Group Counseling (including DBT), Medication Management, Individual Counseling, Testing, ARMHS and CTSS, Consulting, Workshops and Training.
Since 1980, Associated Clinic of Psychology has been known throughout Minnesota and Western Wisconsin as a leader in preventing, diagnosing, and treating mental health issues. ACP is committed to providing a comprehensive suite of mental health services, a single source for all of your mental healthcare needs. With over 200 clinicians, ACP provides: Individual Psychotherapy, Marriage Counseling, Family Counseling, Group Counseling (including DBT), Medication Management, Individual Counseling, Testing, ARMHS and CTSS, Consulting, Workshops and Training.
(612) 294-0631 View (612) 294-0631
Photo of David Townes - Catalyst Mental Health: Uptown, Treatment Center
Catalyst Mental Health: Uptown
Treatment Center
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Founded in 2011, Catalyst Mental Health was started with the goal of serving clients with mental health issues and concerns that don't fit easily into any single box: clients who either have multiple issues occurring simultaneously or who have complex conditions that don't align well with traditional diagnostic definitions. This includes individuals with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, chemical dependency issues, sexual and gender identity issues, compulsive behavior, autism spectrum disorders, attention or focusing problems, relationship or marital conflict, and much more. Catalyst Mental Health is also proud supporter and ally of the LGBT community.
Founded in 2011, Catalyst Mental Health was started with the goal of serving clients with mental health issues and concerns that don't fit easily into any single box: clients who either have multiple issues occurring simultaneously or who have complex conditions that don't align well with traditional diagnostic definitions. This includes individuals with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, chemical dependency issues, sexual and gender identity issues, compulsive behavior, autism spectrum disorders, attention or focusing problems, relationship or marital conflict, and much more. Catalyst Mental Health is also proud supporter and ally of the LGBT community.
(612) 223-7284 x3 View (612) 223-7284 x3
Photo of Kelly Fern - Fern Counseling, Treatment Center, MA, LMFT
Fern Counseling
Treatment Center
Minneapolis, MN 55416
At the heart of our work is a genuine passion for supporting people as they strive to improve their lives. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience fulfillment, growth, and happiness. Whether we are guiding couples in strengthening their relationships or assisting individuals in overcoming challenges, our mission is to help others unlock their full potential. We understand that life’s journey is filled with both ups and downs. That’s why we are dedicated to offering compassionate support, practical strategies, and encouragement tailored to each person’s unique needs.
At the heart of our work is a genuine passion for supporting people as they strive to improve their lives. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience fulfillment, growth, and happiness. Whether we are guiding couples in strengthening their relationships or assisting individuals in overcoming challenges, our mission is to help others unlock their full potential. We understand that life’s journey is filled with both ups and downs. That’s why we are dedicated to offering compassionate support, practical strategies, and encouragement tailored to each person’s unique needs.
(612) 482-9278 View (612) 482-9278
Photo of Janelle Zimmerman - Cultivate Counseling and Wellness, Treatment Center, MA, LPCC
Cultivate Counseling and Wellness
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55413
At Cultivate Counseling and Wellness, we believe in offering feminist, gender-and-sexuality-affirming, health-at-every-size, non-diet, anti-racist, mental health services for every body. The providers at Cultivate have a particular passion for working with adolescents and young-adults/college-age clients, and bridging the gap between higher levels of care and real-life experiences like sharing a living space, grocery shopping, and keeping a budget. We specialize in age-appropriate guidance for those balancing mental health concerns with their first steps into adulthood. We believe that a good therapeutic relationship can be an anchor through these uncertain times, and are honored to hold space for our clients as they grow.
At Cultivate Counseling and Wellness, we believe in offering feminist, gender-and-sexuality-affirming, health-at-every-size, non-diet, anti-racist, mental health services for every body. The providers at Cultivate have a particular passion for working with adolescents and young-adults/college-age clients, and bridging the gap between higher levels of care and real-life experiences like sharing a living space, grocery shopping, and keeping a budget. We specialize in age-appropriate guidance for those balancing mental health concerns with their first steps into adulthood. We believe that a good therapeutic relationship can be an anchor through these uncertain times, and are honored to hold space for our clients as they grow.
(612) 324-4460 View (612) 324-4460
Photo of Tanya Freedland - ARCS Institute, Treatment Center
ARCS Institute
Treatment Center
Minneapolis, MN 55402
At ARCS Institute, we help people better understand their personality and how it shapes emotions, behavior, relationships, and coping over time. Many clients come to us with complex, overlapping concerns, such as substance use, mood instability, trauma, attention difficulties, or long-standing mental health patterns, that don’t fit neatly into a single diagnosis. We also offer comprehensive psychological assessments for ADHD, autism, and related conditions, helping clients and families gain a deeper understanding that supports effective treatment planning and lasting change.
At ARCS Institute, we help people better understand their personality and how it shapes emotions, behavior, relationships, and coping over time. Many clients come to us with complex, overlapping concerns, such as substance use, mood instability, trauma, attention difficulties, or long-standing mental health patterns, that don’t fit neatly into a single diagnosis. We also offer comprehensive psychological assessments for ADHD, autism, and related conditions, helping clients and families gain a deeper understanding that supports effective treatment planning and lasting change.
(320) 378-9647 View (320) 378-9647
Photo of Newport Newport - Center for Families Teen and Adolescent Outpatient, Treatment Center
Center for Families (CFF), a valued member of the Newport Healthcare family of programs, provides guidance, awareness, and education for families in local communities around mental health and substance use struggles. We lead teens ages 13-17 and families to sustainable healing through a continuum of care that includes our Therapeutic Day Program/PHP, Intensive Outpatient Program, and outpatient services. In CFF’s treatment programs, teens begin to build strong relationships, learn and practice healthy coping skills, grow their personal self-worth, and reestablish trust and communication with themselves and their loved ones. Our approach blends behavioral and medical treatment (integrated care) and provides both clinical and experiential modalities (integrative care). Each of our treatment programs encompasses evidence-based and solutions-focused components. Through support groups, clinical therapy, and psychoeducation, we involve the entire family in the healing journey - creating connection, cultivating compassion, igniting hope, and generating lasting change.
Center for Families (CFF), a valued member of the Newport Healthcare family of programs, provides guidance, awareness, and education for families in local communities around mental health and substance use struggles. We lead teens ages 13-17 and families to sustainable healing through a continuum of care that includes our Therapeutic Day Program/PHP, Intensive Outpatient Program, and outpatient services. In CFF’s treatment programs, teens begin to build strong relationships, learn and practice healthy coping skills, grow their personal self-worth, and reestablish trust and communication with themselves and their loved ones. Our approach blends behavioral and medical treatment (integrated care) and provides both clinical and experiential modalities (integrative care). Each of our treatment programs encompasses evidence-based and solutions-focused components. Through support groups, clinical therapy, and psychoeducation, we involve the entire family in the healing journey - creating connection, cultivating compassion, igniting hope, and generating lasting change.
(612) 324-4101 View (612) 324-4101
Photo of Naomi Schwenke - Mosaic Therapy Group, Treatment Center
Mosaic Therapy Group
Treatment Center
Minneapolis, MN 55435
A common phrase heard in our society today is “our healthcare system is broken.” One of the many challenges in the current system is very little integration between physical and mental health. This lack of integration overlooks root causes, underlying concerns and relevant experiences and factors that influence overall health and wellness. We want to be the solution to this problem. We provide outpatient mental health talk therapy in-person at our office in Edina MN or virtual. We also have a Naturopathic Doctor on staff to further support your healing journey.
A common phrase heard in our society today is “our healthcare system is broken.” One of the many challenges in the current system is very little integration between physical and mental health. This lack of integration overlooks root causes, underlying concerns and relevant experiences and factors that influence overall health and wellness. We want to be the solution to this problem. We provide outpatient mental health talk therapy in-person at our office in Edina MN or virtual. We also have a Naturopathic Doctor on staff to further support your healing journey.
(651) 705-7391 View (651) 705-7391
Photo of Bloomington Gawlik - Catalyst Mental Health: Bloomington, Treatment Center
Founded in 2011, Catalyst Mental Health was started with the goal of serving clients with mental health issues and concerns that don't fit easily into any single box: clients who either have multiple issues occurring simultaneously or who have complex conditions that don't align well with traditional diagnostic definitions. This includes individuals with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, chemical dependency issues, sexual and gender identity issues, compulsive behavior, autism spectrum disorders, attention or focusing problems, relationship or marital conflict, and much more. Catalyst Mental Health is also proud supporter and ally of the LGBT community.
Founded in 2011, Catalyst Mental Health was started with the goal of serving clients with mental health issues and concerns that don't fit easily into any single box: clients who either have multiple issues occurring simultaneously or who have complex conditions that don't align well with traditional diagnostic definitions. This includes individuals with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, chemical dependency issues, sexual and gender identity issues, compulsive behavior, autism spectrum disorders, attention or focusing problems, relationship or marital conflict, and much more. Catalyst Mental Health is also proud supporter and ally of the LGBT community.
(612) 260-4273 x4 View (612) 260-4273 x4
Photo of Calsey Fasching - Optimal Brain MN Clinic, Treatment Center, PsyD
Optimal Brain MN Clinic
Treatment Center
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Optimal Brain MN Clinic provides comprehensive in person neuropsychological and psychological evaluations for the whole family (age 6-99), in addition to teleADHD and teleNeuropsychology evaluations for ages 18-100. Following the evaluation, our providers will offer you and your family evidence-based services, to include psychiatry, psychotherapy, group therapy, Spravato treatment, and/or dietitian services, while aiming at a common goal, optimal brain health—improved cognitive, emotional, and social health. We accept most major insurance plans and practice in 43 states (please see our website for a list of states we practice in).
Optimal Brain MN Clinic provides comprehensive in person neuropsychological and psychological evaluations for the whole family (age 6-99), in addition to teleADHD and teleNeuropsychology evaluations for ages 18-100. Following the evaluation, our providers will offer you and your family evidence-based services, to include psychiatry, psychotherapy, group therapy, Spravato treatment, and/or dietitian services, while aiming at a common goal, optimal brain health—improved cognitive, emotional, and social health. We accept most major insurance plans and practice in 43 states (please see our website for a list of states we practice in).
(651) 401-7583 View (651) 401-7583
Photo of The Emily Program Admissions - The Emily Program, Treatment Center
The Emily Program
Treatment Center
Serves Area
The Emily Program offers specialty treatment for eating disorders dedicated to giving all people access to best-practice care and the tools they need for lasting recovery. The Emily Program offers all levels of care, from 24/7 inpatient care through outpatient services. In-person and virtual treatment options are available. Multidisciplinary treatment teams aim to equip individuals, families, and communities with the skills necessary to continue recovery in the home environment. We provide an integrative approach for people of all ages and genders who struggle with food issues, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive eating, Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED), Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorders (ARFID), and related mental health and body image issues. The Emily Program care teams bring decades of experience managing the unique medical and psychiatric complications of eating disorders. With convenient locations in GA, NC, MN, OH, PA, and WA or within a virtual environment, The Emily Program is here to help you no matter where you live. To find a location near you, click “Nearby locations” in desktop view.
The Emily Program offers specialty treatment for eating disorders dedicated to giving all people access to best-practice care and the tools they need for lasting recovery. The Emily Program offers all levels of care, from 24/7 inpatient care through outpatient services. In-person and virtual treatment options are available. Multidisciplinary treatment teams aim to equip individuals, families, and communities with the skills necessary to continue recovery in the home environment. We provide an integrative approach for people of all ages and genders who struggle with food issues, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive eating, Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED), Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorders (ARFID), and related mental health and body image issues. The Emily Program care teams bring decades of experience managing the unique medical and psychiatric complications of eating disorders. With convenient locations in GA, NC, MN, OH, PA, and WA or within a virtual environment, The Emily Program is here to help you no matter where you live. To find a location near you, click “Nearby locations” in desktop view.
(612) 324-0202 View (612) 324-0202
Photo of Susan Borden - Center for Conscious Alchemy, Treatment Center, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Center for Conscious Alchemy
Treatment Center
Serves Area
We welcome adults and couples seeking compassionate, whole-person mental health care. Clients come to us for support with depression, anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, grief, life transitions, relationship concerns, neurodivergence, and spiritual questions. Our team is trauma-informed and LGBTQIA+ affirming. Care includes psychotherapy, integrative psychiatry, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, with options to heal in community through groups and events.
We welcome adults and couples seeking compassionate, whole-person mental health care. Clients come to us for support with depression, anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, grief, life transitions, relationship concerns, neurodivergence, and spiritual questions. Our team is trauma-informed and LGBTQIA+ affirming. Care includes psychotherapy, integrative psychiatry, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, with options to heal in community through groups and events.
(651) 319-8037 View (651) 319-8037
Photo of Kenneth DeBlock - Embark Behavioral Health , Treatment Center, LPC
Embark Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Serves Area
We understand how heartbreaking it is to watch your adolescent or teen struggle with severe mental health conditions like suicidal thoughts, self-harm, depression and anxiety. As a parent or teen, the weight of these conditions can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. Our residential treatment center in Independence, Missouri provides 24/7 care in a safe, home-like environment for adolescents and teens ages 12-18 of all genders. With constant supervision from a compassionate, experienced team, we offer personalized treatment designed to promote emotional safety and healing. You're in the right place, call today to get started.
We understand how heartbreaking it is to watch your adolescent or teen struggle with severe mental health conditions like suicidal thoughts, self-harm, depression and anxiety. As a parent or teen, the weight of these conditions can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. Our residential treatment center in Independence, Missouri provides 24/7 care in a safe, home-like environment for adolescents and teens ages 12-18 of all genders. With constant supervision from a compassionate, experienced team, we offer personalized treatment designed to promote emotional safety and healing. You're in the right place, call today to get started.
(816) 754-0114 View (816) 754-0114
Photo of Prairiecare Brooklyn Park - PrairieCare, Treatment Center
PrairieCare
Treatment Center
Serves Area
At PrairieCare, we serve individuals of all ages with a variety of mental health needs. Our comprehensive services include inpatient care for those 35 and younger, focusing on safety and stabilization, and a residential program for youth aged 10 to 17. We also offer Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) for youth and adults, featuring group therapy and medication management. Additionally, our clinic provides weekly psychotherapy and specialized programs like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and maternal mental health support.
At PrairieCare, we serve individuals of all ages with a variety of mental health needs. Our comprehensive services include inpatient care for those 35 and younger, focusing on safety and stabilization, and a residential program for youth aged 10 to 17. We also offer Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) for youth and adults, featuring group therapy and medication management. Additionally, our clinic provides weekly psychotherapy and specialized programs like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and maternal mental health support.
(952) 715-6573 View (952) 715-6573
Photo of Hazelden Betty Ford Teen Rehab Center For Teens Young Adults Families - Hazelden Betty Ford Center for Young Adults, Treatment Center
Hazelden Betty Ford Center for Young Adults
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Hazelden Betty Ford is America’s top-ranked behavioral health center for teens (12-18), young adults (18-25) and families. Our dual diagnosis treatment experts get to the root of mental health (depression, anxiety, ADHD) and substance use challenges, providing psychiatric care and evidence-based addiction treatment to guide teens on a healthy, resilient path forward. We offer separate, specialized inpatient and outpatient tracks for teens and emerging adults, providing age-relevant, relatable content plus the opportunity to learn and grow in a close-knit peer community. Personalized care plans fit the needs of your child and family.
Hazelden Betty Ford is America’s top-ranked behavioral health center for teens (12-18), young adults (18-25) and families. Our dual diagnosis treatment experts get to the root of mental health (depression, anxiety, ADHD) and substance use challenges, providing psychiatric care and evidence-based addiction treatment to guide teens on a healthy, resilient path forward. We offer separate, specialized inpatient and outpatient tracks for teens and emerging adults, providing age-relevant, relatable content plus the opportunity to learn and grow in a close-knit peer community. Personalized care plans fit the needs of your child and family.
(866) 621-5211 View (866) 621-5211
Photo of Rick Parrish - Sober Escorts, Inc., Treatment Center
Sober Escorts, Inc.
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Sober Escorts, Inc. is one of the most experienced, ethical, and respected Sober Escort (Safe Transport), Recovery Companion, and Sober Coaching Organization in the Addiction Recovery Services Industry. We've been successfully helping individuals and their families across the U.S. and abroad in their recovery journeys since 2004. Call us for a no-cost consultation. We are here to help, and if our services are not a fit, we will refer you to reputable professionals who can help you or your loved one immediately. With a compliment of hundreds of recovery professionals available in every city in the US, and abroad. We are also known to work very quickly -- helping individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues safely get to treatment as quickly as possible. Please note: We do not accept Medicaid. If you are in need of free or low-cost treatment we highly recommend that you contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Sober Escorts, Inc. is one of the most experienced, ethical, and respected Sober Escort (Safe Transport), Recovery Companion, and Sober Coaching Organization in the Addiction Recovery Services Industry. We've been successfully helping individuals and their families across the U.S. and abroad in their recovery journeys since 2004. Call us for a no-cost consultation. We are here to help, and if our services are not a fit, we will refer you to reputable professionals who can help you or your loved one immediately. With a compliment of hundreds of recovery professionals available in every city in the US, and abroad. We are also known to work very quickly -- helping individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues safely get to treatment as quickly as possible. Please note: We do not accept Medicaid. If you are in need of free or low-cost treatment we highly recommend that you contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
(352) 436-6095 View (352) 436-6095
Photo of Jill Gamez - Arbor Place, Inc., Treatment Center
Arbor Place, Inc.
Treatment Center
Serves Area
The mission of Arbor Place, Inc. is to provide quality counseling and renewal opportunities to individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance use and mental health disorders.
The mission of Arbor Place, Inc. is to provide quality counseling and renewal opportunities to individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance use and mental health disorders.
(715) 203-8489 View (715) 203-8489
Photo of Mental Health Systems - Mental Health Systems, Treatment Center
Mental Health Systems
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Since 2002, MHS has provided intensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy services for individuals with significant difficulties in daily functioning. Many of our clients struggle with severe depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, relationship problems and safety issues that require ongoing monitoring and treatment. Our programs can be an alternative to frequent hospitalizations by providing skills training and support designed to manage emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and crises while remaining safe in the community. We collaborate with our clients and their treatment teams with the goal of long-term symptom reduction and improved mental health.
Since 2002, MHS has provided intensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy services for individuals with significant difficulties in daily functioning. Many of our clients struggle with severe depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, relationship problems and safety issues that require ongoing monitoring and treatment. Our programs can be an alternative to frequent hospitalizations by providing skills training and support designed to manage emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and crises while remaining safe in the community. We collaborate with our clients and their treatment teams with the goal of long-term symptom reduction and improved mental health.
(952) 649-5599 View (952) 649-5599
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.
(320) 347-3043 View (320) 347-3043
Photo of Ricky Melton - Recover Anywhere, Treatment Center
Recover Anywhere
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Finding the right treatment center can feel overwhelming and daunting, especially when faced with so many options and the pressure to make the right choice. At Recover Anywhere, we understand this challenge and are here to guide you and your family every step of the way. Our certified treatment specialists listen and understand your unique struggles and needs, creating a personalised treatment plan just for you. Whether you’re seeking addiction treatment or mental health care, Recover Anywhere has you covered. Our nationwide network of quality providers allows us to help you navigate the best treatment options for anyone, anywhere
Finding the right treatment center can feel overwhelming and daunting, especially when faced with so many options and the pressure to make the right choice. At Recover Anywhere, we understand this challenge and are here to guide you and your family every step of the way. Our certified treatment specialists listen and understand your unique struggles and needs, creating a personalised treatment plan just for you. Whether you’re seeking addiction treatment or mental health care, Recover Anywhere has you covered. Our nationwide network of quality providers allows us to help you navigate the best treatment options for anyone, anywhere
(442) 267-3149 View (442) 267-3149

See more therapy options for Minneapolis

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.