Parenting a teenager is almost always an exhausting job, but if your son is exhibiting extreme behavioral issues, it can lead to serious stress, worry and frustration. Although there are outpatient options you can try, such as counseling and disciplinary tactics, it may not be enough. Residential treatment centers are full time facilities that remove a teen from the triggers and temptations of his usual environment and securely house him in supportive surroundings as he is coached toward making positive changes. Such intensive programs are specially designed to help troubled boys gain the tools they need for a healthier and more successful future. Full time facilities are a valuable resource for parents that don’t have the resources to provide their son with the intensive help he needs at home.
What Happens At Residential Treatment Centers?
Residential treatment centers assess each student as he arrives in order to create a baseline for his behavioral, emotional and medical needs. This assessment helps the staff to create an individualized program for each boy based on his unique combination of challenges. Most treatment plans include the usual group, individual and family therapies, but some facilities also offer additional options like recreational and experiential therapies as well as life skills opportunities. Consistent rules and structure are implemented in order to help students learn how to self-correct their behavior as they meet their goals and work through the program.
What Should I Look For In A Residential Treatment Center?
As you are researching potential programs for your son, consider your own needs as well as his. Dealing with a troubled teen can deplete many of your emotional reserves and placing him in a program you have confidence in is a sure way to get some respite. Select a facility that seems to be a good fit for your son’s needs, but also gives you peace of mind in terms of licensing, accreditation, experience and safety. Not every state has the same laws and requirements governing their teen help options, so don’t be afraid to look a little further afield for the one that is right for your family.
Deciding to send your son away for full time care can be intimidating and painful. Just remember that with the right program, it can be a life changing experience and offer him skills that will contribute to life-long success. And entirely new environment is sometimes necessary for teens that can’t make changes any other way. If your son is dealing with issues like defiance, anger, depression, substance abuse or a mental disorder, take the time you need to thoroughly explore potential facilities and give your son a valuable opportunity to start on a better path.
Sundance Canyon Academy is a residential treatment center in Utah. Our unique relationship based therapy model helps troubled teen boys identify and overcome the root of their issues, unlike the behavior modification therapy programs, which only address the symptoms. Contact us today at 1-866-678-2425 for a consultation.