Navigating Choices: Finding the Best Residential Treatment Centers for Teens

Helping your teenager navigate their mental health journey can be overwhelming and confusing. But don't lose hope! Residential treatment centers can provide specialized care that helps your teen recover and grow.

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Structured Support and Hope: How Residential Treatment Can Help Your Teenager

If you're wondering whether this is the right choice for your child, understanding the typical student profile for these centers can make the decision easier. These centers offer essential support, structured therapy sessions, and a safe environment perfect for helping teenagers. We're here to simplify your decision-making process and show you how residential treatment centers can benefit your teen while acknowledging your difficult choices.

Key Takeaways

  • Residential treatment centers for teens provide 24-hour observation, comprehensive assessment, stabilization, and intensive support. This includes specialized therapy, and education to support mental health and academic progress, designed to address a variety of mental health challenges outside the home environment.
  • Evaluation and selection of the right residential treatment center involve assessing individual needs, reviewing facility accreditations, and seeking professional guidance to ensure appropriate and effective care for teens with mental health issues.
  • OASIS Ascent uses a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to treat common mental and behavioral health challenges in teens. We also emphasize the development of academic and life skills as an integral part of the recovery and rehabilitation process.
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    Joint-Commission

    Accredited by The Joint Commission

    Families trust us with what is most precious to them: their sons and daughters. We work hard to show we are worthy of that trust. That is why we earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™. The Joint Commission accreditation is a known indicator of quality and reliability. The Joint Commission certification shows your family that we provide services you can trust.

    What is Residential Treatment for Teens?

    A residential treatment center (RTC), also known as a residential treatment facility, is a live-in healthcare facility that offers around-the-clock care and therapy to adolescents and young adults grappling with mental health issues. The controlled environment and limited social access play a pivotal role in the therapeutic process. These centers have evolved to provide specialized care for children and adolescents, focusing on healing, continuing education, and the development of important life skills.

    They offer a safe space for nurturing and recovering, away from the distractions and triggers of the home environment.

    How Do Residential Treatment Centers Help Teens in Crisis?

    A residential program can be a lifeline for teens wrestling with mental illness. Providing comprehensive care, OASIS Ascent offers:

    • Around-the-clock observation by trained mental health professionals
    • Thorough assessments and holistic care that address your teen's mental and emotional health, physical well-being, social connections, academic and occupational pursuits, and much more.
    • Vital stabilization for these teens who feel out of control
    • 24-hour intensive support
    • Individualized therapeutic care tailored to teenagers’ unique needs and guided by licensed therapists
    • Specialized education during treatment, balancing the scales between mental health and academic progress.

    Our teen residential treatment offers various evidence-based treatment modalities that are designed to address the complex mental health needs of teenagers through teen residential treatment programs.

    Common Mental Health Disorders Treated at OASIS Ascent's Residential Treatment Centers

    A wide range of mental health disorders are treated in our teen residential treatment facilities. Common issues that indicate your teen may need comprehensive treatment, include:

    • Anxiety Disorders, including social anxiety and panic attacks.
    • Depression, Mood Disorders, & Related Struggles:
      • Suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts
      • Isolating From Peers & Family
      • Low Self-Esteem
      • Extreme Loneliness
    • Trauma and PTSD
    • Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
    • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
    • Adoption / Anxious Attachment Issues
    • Grief and Loss
    • Relationship Problems & Social Struggles
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Out-of-control Behaviors
      • Anger issues
      • Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD)
      • Family Conflict
      • Poor Parent-Child Relationships
    • Risky Behaviors
      • Impulsivity & Poor Impulse Control
      • Running away
      • Substance use
    • Behavioral or Process Addictions:
      • Tech Addictions including social media and gaming addictions
      • Cutting and self-harm
    • Academic Underachievement
      • Sudden decline in academic performance
      • Failing School
      • School Refusal & Avoidance
      • Learning Disorders & Non-Verbal Learning Disability
    • Poor Emotional Regulation:
      • High Sensitivity
      • Low Frustration Tolerance
      • Emotionally Reactive
      • Low Resilience and Grit
    • Co-occurring disorders

    If your teen is isolating from peers and family, displaying out-of-control behaviors, or showing signs of self-harm, it might suggest that they could benefit from the intensive support provided in a residential treatment center.

    Exclusionary criteria include:

    Our teen residential treatment program treats a wide spectrum of mental and behavioral health issues. We do not provide services for specific conditions and behavioral issues to maintain an optimal setting for everyone involved. These include:

    • Severe eating disorders that require medical intervention.
    • Epilepsy/seizures
    • Active hallucinations
    • Conduct Disorders
    • Psychosis
    • Schizophrenia, or Schizoaffective Disorder
    • Students with a history of violence or sexual assault
    • IQ lower than 80

    Signs Your Teen May Need Residential Treatment

    It can be challenging to ascertain if your teen needs the level of care provided by residential programs. Signs that indicate the need for a treatment program include:

    • Persistent academic challenges
    • Behavioral issues negatively impacting the family’s mental or physical health
    • Relationship problems
    • Safety concerns
    • Unresponsiveness to outpatient therapy

    If a mental health professional recommends a residential treatment center, it’s likely a good time to explore this option. The longer you wait to get effective help for your teen, the more difficult it becomes to change negative behaviors and patterns.

    Does My Teen Need Treatment?

    Every teen’s strengths and challenges are different. Complete the no-obligation assessment to help us understand your family’s needs.

    The Importance of Specialized Care for Teens Struggling with a Mental Health Crisis

    When your teenager is facing a mental health crisis, it can feel overwhelming. Traditional settings may not be equipped to address the complexities and urgency of their situation. This is where specialized residential programs come in. OASIS Ascent offers a safe and structured environment designed specifically for teens in crisis.

    Our supportive environment removes them from distractions and allows them to focus solely on healing. We employ a team of mental health specialists, therapists, and psychiatric providers who work collaboratively to create a custom treatment plan that addresses your teen's unique needs. This specialized care ensures a focused approach to break unhealthy patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms, paving the way for a brighter future.

    Identifying the Right Residential Treatment Center for Your Teen

    At OASIS Ascent, we understand the urgency and emotional weight of finding the right residential treatment facility for your struggling teen. This decision can feel overwhelming, but know that you're not alone.

    Evaluating Treatment Programs: Why OASIS Ascent Stands Out

    Finding a quality treatment program for your teen can feel overwhelming. Here at OASIS Ascent, we want to empower you to make an informed decision. While many residential programs exist, here's what makes OASIS Ascent unique:

    • Focused Expertise: We specialize in treating complex mental health challenges in adolescents. Our residential treatment program targets a variety of issues, ensuring your teen receives the most relevant and effective treatment for their specific needs.
    • Comprehensive Assessments Included in Cost of Treatment: OASIS Ascent is committed to getting to the root cause of what is driving your teen’s mental, emotional, and behavioral health challenges. That is why we provide in-depth assessments at no extra cost, covering your teen’s mental, physical, academic, and social well-being. This includes psychological testing, psychiatric evaluation, genomic testing to explore potential underlying factors, a physician-led physical exam, nutritional assessment, and evaluations of their academic and social strengths and challenges.
    • Experienced Therapists: Our treatment team comprises highly qualified and licensed therapists with extensive experience working with teenagers. They understand the unique challenges teens face and can create a safe and supportive environment for your child to heal.
    • On-site Nurses: In addition to our therapy team, we have licensed nurses on-site to address any medical needs that may arise, providing an extra layer of security and comfort for you and your teen.
    • Academics Integrated: We understand the importance of maintaining academic progress. Our program seamlessly integrates schoolwork with therapy, so your teen stays on track while receiving crucial mental health support.
    • Comprehensive & Holistic Approach: At OASIS, we understand that your teen's physical health, academic performance, and social interactions all contribute to their mental health. That's why we believe that solely focusing on your teen's emotional well-being is insufficient. At OASIS, we take a holistic approach, considering your teenager as a complete individual and providing comprehensive treatment that addresses every aspect of their well-being.
    • Quality Accreditations: OASIS Ascent is accredited by the Joint Commission, the gold standard in healthcare quality. This accreditation demonstrates our commitment to providing the highest level of care for your teen.
    • Successful Treatment Outcomes: We believe long-term success is crucial. We track treatment outcomes to ensure our program equips teens with the skills and support they need to thrive beyond treatment.

    Beyond the Basics:

    While accreditations and experienced therapists are essential, we go a step further at OASIS Ascent:

    • Individualized Approach: We don't offer a one-size-fits-all solution. Our treatment programs are crafted specifically for each teen's unique needs and goals, maximizing their path towards recovery.
    • Family Focus: Finding the right fit for both your teen and your family is crucial. We offer consultations to discuss your teen's needs and explore how OASIS Ascent can support your entire family during this challenging time.

    Benefits of Seeking Professional Guidance:

    If you have questions on whether residential treatment is right for your teen, please consult a mental health professional or educational consultant. They can:

    • Assess Your Teen's Needs: Through a comprehensive evaluation, they can determine the severity of your teen's condition and recommend the most appropriate level of care.
    • Craft a Personalized Treatment Plan: Working with you and the OASIS Ascent team, they can create a custom treatment plan that addresses your teen's specific needs and sets them up for success.
    • Provide Ongoing Support: Mental health professionals offer guidance and emotional support throughout the treatment journey, both for your teen and for your family.

    Take the Next Step:

    We know this is a difficult decision, but you don't have to go through it alone. We understand that navigating the complexities of residential treatment can be confusing.

    At Oasis Ascent, We Are Here to Support You Every Step of the Way.

    Let's discuss your teen's needs and explore how our residential treatment program can help them reach their full potential.

    Therapeutic Approaches Used at OASIS Ascent's Residential Treatment Centers

    At OASIS Ascent, we understand that every teen's journey to healing is unique. That's why we utilize evidence-based treatment designed to address the specific needs of your teen struggling with a mental health crisis. Our experienced therapists incorporate a variety of approaches to provide the most effective treatment plan possible. Here's a closer look at some of the core therapeutic approaches used at OASIS Ascent:

    • Evidence-based Modalities: Our therapists use proven methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to equip your teen with healthy coping mechanisms, emotional regulation skills, and positive self-esteem.
    • Trauma-Informed Care: If your teen has experienced trauma, we may incorporate therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help them process and heal from past experiences.
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    Beyond Therapy: Building Social & Life Skills

    We recognize that healing goes beyond individual therapy sessions. Our program fosters a healthy lifestyle and a supportive community where your teen can develop essential social skills and positive relationships with peers. 

    This includes:

    • Relationship-Based Interventions: We create a safe space for your teen to build trust and healthy communication skills within a caring environment.
    • Social Skills Training Groups: Supervised group sessions help your teen develop healthy social interactions, conflict resolution skills, and build confidence in social situations.

    Experiential Therapy: Nurturing Growth Through Activity

    At OASIS Ascent, we integrate powerful therapeutic activities like recreational therapy, art, music, and yoga into your teen's treatment plan. 

    These activities provide a fun and engaging way for your teen to:

    • Develop healthy coping mechanisms and emotional expression.
    • Build self-confidence and positive self-identity.
    • Enhance communication and social interaction skills.
    Experiential Therapy Nurturing Growth Through Activity
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    A Supportive Environment for Healing

    All these therapeutic approaches are delivered within a nurturing and structured residential setting. This environment provides consistency, promotes healthy routines, and healthy lifestyle changes and allows your teen to focus on healing and learning new skills.

    We believe in a holistic approach to healing, empowering your teen to develop the tools they need to thrive.

    Individual Therapy

    Individual therapy is a key component of treatment at OASIS Ascent. Our experienced therapists build trusting relationships with your teen, creating a safe space for them to explore their challenges and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

    Here's how individual therapy at OASIS Ascent benefits your teen:

    • Personalized Treatment Plans: Our therapists utilize evidence-based practices that address your teen's specific needs, whether it they're facing anxiety, depression, trauma or other mental health conditions.
    • Uncovering and Healing from Underlying Issues: Individual therapy sessions provide a safe space for your teen to explore the root causes of their struggles, allowing them to heal and move forward.
    • Evidence-Based Therapies: Our therapists utilize proven methods like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to equip your teen with essential life skills.
      • CBT: This therapy teaches your teen to identify and reframe negative thinking patterns that contribute to their emotional distress.
      • DBT: This therapy equips your teen with skills to manage overwhelming emotions, build healthier relationships, and tolerate distress in a healthy way.
    • Building Confidence and Self-Esteem: Through therapy, your teen will learn valuable tools for self-awareness, emotional regulation, and building healthy relationships. This empowers them to face challenges with greater confidence and self-esteem.

    Through individual therapy, your teen will develop the tools they need to manage their emotions, build resilience, and create a brighter future.

    Individual Therapy
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    Family Therapy

    Your teen's mental health struggles can impact the entire family. At OASIS Ascent, we believe in a holistic approach to healing, which includes strengthening family bonds. Family therapy provides a safe space for open communication and collaboration.

    Allowing you and your loved ones to:

    • Gain a Deeper Understanding: Therapists guide you in understanding your teen's challenges and how you can best support their recovery journey.
    • Rebuild Connections: Family therapy can help mend strained relationships and rebuild trust within the family unit.
    • Develop Healthy Communication Skills: Learn effective communication techniques to express feelings openly and listen with empathy.
    • Address Family Dynamics: Explore personal feelings and family patterns that may be affecting your teen's well-being, working together to create a more structured environment.

    Family therapy sessions typically occur once a week and focus on improving communication patterns, values, and expectations in alignment with the child’s treatment goals. Family involvement in the treatment process can lead to better outcomes, including improved mental health, reduced symptoms, and better functioning in school and social settings.

    Group Therapy

    At OASIS Ascent, we know how isolating mental health struggles can feel for teens. Group therapy plays a vital role in residential care, providing a safe and supportive space for your teen to connect with peers facing similar challenges.

    Here's how this benefits your teen:

    • Belonging and Connection: Group therapy allows your teen to realize they're not alone. Sharing experiences with others who understand can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and build a sense of belonging.
    • Peer Inspiration: Witnessing other teens successfully manage their struggles can be incredibly motivating. Group sessions allow your teen to learn from and be inspired by their peers, fostering hope and a sense of possibility for their own recovery.
    • Open Communication in a Safe Space: Our therapists create a safe environment where teens can explore and discuss difficult emotions and experiences comfortably. This fosters open communication and allows teens to learn valuable social and emotional skills.

    Group sessions provides a unique opportunity for your teen to gain valuable support, connect with peers, and develop essential life skills on their journey to healing.

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    Helping Families Throughout The Insurance Review Process

    Our highly experienced admissions and utilization review team will assist families by completing a verification of benefits and will obtain pre-authorization from the insurance company prior to admission to ensure the family has the necessary coverage.

    The Role of Education and Life Skills Development in Residential Treatment

    At OASIS Ascent, we understand that your teen's education is an essential part of their treatment. That's why we integrate a strong academic program into our residential treatment program. Here's how we ensure your teen stays on track academically while focusing on healing emotionally.

    Therapeutic School

    Our residential program includes accredited on-site schooling to ensure they stay on track academically. This includes:

    • Certified teachers and tutors offer personalized instruction and support to meet each student’s learning objectives.
    • A structured academic schedule with dedicated study time allows them to stay caught up and maintain a sense of accomplishment.
    • Academic support aligned with each teen’s individualized treatment plan, accommodating their specific learning needs and therapeutic goals.
    Education and Life Skills Development in Residential Treatment

    Beyond Academics: Life Skills for a Brighter Future

    In addition to education, we focus on developing everyday life skills that empower your teen after treatment. This may include:

    • Healthy Communication: Learning to express themselves clearly and listen actively.
    • Social Skills Development: Building healthy relationships and navigating social situations effectively.
    • Self-Care and Mindfulness: Developing healthy coping skills and managing stress in a positive way.
    • Daily Living Skills: Gaining independence and confidence through practical life skills like time management and organization.
    • Financial Literacy: Gaining the knowledge and skills to manage money responsibly, including budgeting, saving, and avoiding debt.
    • Decision-Making Skills: Learning to thoughtfully approach challenges, weigh options carefully, and make responsible choices.

    The structured daily schedule at OASIS is designed to include time for practicing life skills in a supportive setting, allowing teens to apply what they have learned. By combining academic support with life skills development, we prepare your teen for a successful transition back to school and community life.

    We believe in nurturing the whole teen, setting them up for academic success and a fulfilling future.

    You Are Not Alone

    OASIS Ascent is there for you and your family.

    Get Confidential Help Today, Call Us Anytime: 855-701-2721

    Why Choose OASIS Ascent for Your Teen's Residential Treatment

    Embarking on the journey of selecting a residential treatment center for your teen can be filled with a mix of hope and apprehension. It’s a decision that signifies a commitment to your child's healing and a better future. By understanding the characteristics that define the ideal candidate for such a specialized environment, you are equipped to make an informed choice, grounded in the knowledge of what's best for your teenager's unique needs.

    By choosing OASIS Ascent, you’re not just selecting a nurturing environment but becoming part of a supportive community where your teen can grow and thrive. This step opens the door to a transformative experience for your teen, guided by compassion, expertise, and a shared vision for successful recovery together. Trust in this decision is a powerful affirmation of your hope for your child's well-being and the brighter days that lie ahead.

    What Other Families Say About Our Residential Treatment Centers for Teens

    Firsthand testimonials from families provide insight into the transformative potential of residential treatment centers. Hearing from other families who have journeyed through the same path can provide reassurance and hope.

    Our testimonials highlight the positive impact of OASIS's residential program on teens’ lives, reflecting the successful outcomes we strive for in our mission to help teens navigate their mental health challenges.

    Does Residential Treatment Work for Teens? Our Successful Treatment Outcomes Say - Yes!

    Studies show that residential treatment effectively enhances mental and behavioral health outcomes for teenagers. According to our outcomes studies, we’ve seen remarkable progress in the lives of the teens we’ve had the privilege of serving.

    Our approach to addressing the unique needs of each teen has yielded positive results, and our commitment to providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatment continues to drive our success.

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    At discharge, 95% of parents stated they would recommend OASIS Ascent to a friend in a similar situation.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes, OASIS Ascent provides crisis stabilization services for teens. These services are achieved through a comprehensive approach involving intensive individual, family, and group therapy sessions, as well as medication management administered by a licensed psychiatrist or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). The program aims to help teenagers and their families attain emotional stability, while also developing essential coping mechanisms to effectively manage mental health crises.

    We serve teens from age 12 up to their 18th birthday.

    Our programs last approximately 30-90 days with an average length of stay of 50 days. In some cases, like when the teen is returning to a therapeutic program, the length of stay may be shorter.

    Oasis Ascent’s purpose is to conduct a thorough assessment and provide therapeutic services to support each teen and their family. We monitor the teen’s response to group, individual, and family therapy interventions. Responses to classroom settings and a variety of daily activities are also monitored by our staff. The comprehensive integration of the information we gather helps us to recommend treatment for both managing the current crisis, as well as recommendations for further ongoing support that may be needed.

    No, Oasis Ascent does not replace wilderness therapy programs. We are primarily considered a mental health service for highly acute teens, and maybe an alternative to wilderness, especially for those kids that may have medical or other issues that prohibit them from participating fully in wilderness therapy rigor. Our program is centered around assessment, treatment, and transition back into normal life. The average teen in our facility usually has more complicated psychiatric issues or medical issues. Understanding these issues, in addition to certain behaviors, may not be solved with wilderness therapy. Our intent is for teens to leave our program with the clearest understanding of the issues that have affected their growth, several weeks of stable engagement in the treatment services, and a detailed plan for moving forward.

    Each student will receive an initial psychiatric evaluation, and may also receive a psychological assessment if needed. Additionally, every student will receive a health & physical examination as part of the screening process. Please inquire if you have specific diagnostic/testing needs for your teen.

    A team of highly skilled professionals is working with each and every student. These professionals include licensed clinicians, psychiatrist and APRNs, along with nursing staff that can offer support 24/7. The residential team is made of highly skilled life coaches that help create structure and routine for the day. They also ensure safety, monitoring, and create lots of engaging and fun activities for teens to get excited about during their time at Oasis.

    We are available 24 hours a day to answer any of your questions and to admit students.

    OASIS Ascent has the expertise needed to help your family.

    the-joint-commision

    The Joint Commission has also recognized OASIS Ascent's high-quality care standards by providing it with accreditation.

    State-of-Utah-Seal

    OASIS Ascent is also fully licensed in the state of Utah.

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    Choose Mental Health is changing nationally the approach to mental health for children.

    Silver RDP Seal

    Designated as a NATSAP Research Program, showing our commitment to well-researched practices in our program.

    Cognia-Accredited-School-x100

    This program is proud to be Cognia Accredited. Cognia provides accreditation to schools that have earned recognition for their reputation and high educational standards.

    Summary

    Navigating the world of teen mental health treatment can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options, like OASIS Ascent's residential treatment centers, can make the journey less daunting. OASIS provides 24/7 observation, comprehensive assessments, crisis stabilization, intensive support, and evidence-based treatment for teens struggling with mental health issues. Our residential treatment program provides a structured environment where teens can break free from maladaptive habits, develop healthier behaviors, and continue their education.

    Take the Next Step:

    We know this is a difficult decision, but you don't have to go through it alone. We understand that navigating the complexities of residential treatment can be confusing.

    At Oasis Ascent, We Are Here to Support You Every Step of the Way.

    Let's discuss your teen's needs and explore how our residential treatment program can help them reach their full potential.