Troubled youth currently grapple with more issues than any previous generation.
These range from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression to anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use disorder. As a result, many teen boys suffer from emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. Fortunately, there are a growing number of residential treatment programs in the country where such troubled youth can gain the right kind of help. Residential treatment centers are teenage help facilities that provide a full-time healing environment where young boys can receive professional therapy to shift bad habits. They offer a safe and structured atmosphere that fosters progression and growth through a combination of individual and group therapy, academic studies, and recreational activities. Residential treatment centers for teenage boys are effective in helping young men work through mental health and behavioral issues.
Essential Questions To Ask
Prior to making any commitments, it is imperative to conduct due diligence and learn about the therapeutic program offered by each prospective treatment center. Without providing a residential treatment center with too much background information (e.g., needs, goals, preferences, etc.), consider asking the following questions:
- What’s the overall therapeutic philosophy and methodology? Listen closely to the representative’s ability to concisely describe the philosophy and methodology.
- A good answer should sound something along the lines of, “We are based on supportive-expressive therapy, and therefore we offer many different outlets and experiences throughout the week each day for self-expression in individual and group sessions, and in journal writing, and art therapy, and psychodrama groups.”
- A worrisome answer might sound like, “We really love our clients and believe connection and relationships are the answer, and we have a very strict behavior modification and level system.”
Notice how that last statement does not offer alignment of philosophy and methodology. This can be quite complex and working with a professional in understanding the best therapeutic philosophy and methodology for a specific individual is highly recommended.
- What is the current peer group culture like among the participants? Listen for the description of the quality of peer leadership, social backgrounds, emotional maturity, age range, the severity of symptoms and overall functioning, and level and quality of peer engagement. If they are not covered, ask about these aspects specifically.
- What kind of monitoring and interventions are there for young boys resistant to treatment or certain aspects of the program? Offer specific examples of behaviors (e.g., cutting, unwilling to get sober, not wanting to get out of bed, etc.).
- What makes your program a uniquely good match? Listen for specific factors mentioned such as detailed therapeutic actions and resources that will potentially lead to success (e.g., number of staff, including a type of peer group, listing a variety of therapeutic modalities that are offered, specific levels of monitoring, and/ or autonomy, etc.).
It is also helpful to note the culture of masculinity (e.g., being sporty and engaging in outdoor activities, embracing a more mindful and calmer atmosphere, a more professional or creative male culture, etc.) that is established and encouraged in each program, respectively. There are a lot of things to learn and consider in terms of determining the quality of the match and the chances for success before making a final decision about a residential treatment center for teen boys.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At {Upwell Advisors}, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected] We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
