Struggling Teens

Who are residential treatment facilities intended for? This article will help you decide if a residential treatment facility is the best option for your family by discussing the advantages of residential treatment facilites and the costs associated with longer term treatments.

In some cases, a teenager is so out of control, and so destructive to self and others, that there is little that can be done in the home environment. In such cases, residential treatment facilities can assist in helping teenagers modify their behaviors while continuing their education. Teenagers leave home and live at a facility designed to help them. Sleeping arrangements and meals are all provided in this setting. These facilities are designed to include individual and group therapy for very troubled teens, while helping them continue to receive schooling. If your teenager is out of control and presenting a danger to the rest of the family, it might worth considering a residential treatment facility.

Who are residential treatment facilities intended for?

Sending a teenager to a residential treatment facility is a major decision. These facilities are meant for long-term solutions to severe problems. A teenager can be expected to stay at the facility for between six and 18 months. Teenagers that are candidates for residential treatment facilities include those that display the following issues:

• Regular problems at school.
• Recurring problems with adult authority.
• Severe emotional imbalances and problems.
• History of substance abuse.
• Problems with teen depression or suicidal tendencies.

These are teenagers that are exhibiting behaviors and problems that cannot be fixed quickly. They may need constant attention and monitoring. They may also be presenting a danger to themselves and others. Many parents try to be supportive and get help for their teens, but with other responsibilities, including work and additional children, it may be impossible to adequately help very troubled teens modify their behavior.

It is important to note that residential treatment facilities are not intended for teens with mild to moderate problems. In many cases, teenagers at these stages of issues can be helped locally and with the right kind of counseling, therapy and support.

Advantages of residential treatment facilities

These types of facilities include therapy, and this is one of the main advantages. Residential treatment facilities often have therapists and other professionals on staff. They are available any time of the day or night to help teenagers. Counseling sessions take place individually and in groups, and long term techniques are taught that can help teenagers deal with their problems and modify their behaviors. These centers can be beneficial since they provide an environment that encourages long term change. For teens that are depressed and possibly suicidal, residential treatment facilities feature professionals that can keep watch on them at times when you might not be able to. There are also centers that specialize in substance abuse and that can help your teen battle an addiction.

And, of course, while your teen is at a residential treatment facility, his or her education continues. This type of program helps your teen keep up with schoolwork while being treated for his or her problems. This way, your troubled teen isn’t behind when he or she integrates back into the school system.

Paying for residential treatment facilities

This level of help and attention can cost between $4,000 and $11,000 a month. This is because residential treatment facilities have large staff available to help teens with a number of issues, on top of providing an education. It is important to note that while some health insurance can help with the costs, not all will. However, there are educational grants available for those who qualify (as long as the facility is eligible), and there are other options. Many residential treatment facilities can set up long term payment plans with you, and some families get loans from other places. There are usually several options available for those who truly need help.

Sending a teen to a residential treatment facility can be a difficult decision. However, in some cases it really is necessary in order to protect the teen and your family from harm.