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Benefits of Residential Treatment and Tips for Choosing a Residential Treatment Facility

Over the years, the media has, at times, painted negative images of residential treatment for the public. Although some programs may deserve this, it is important not to overlook the benefits that residential treatment can provide. For youth who are out of control and destructive to themselves and/or others there is little that can be done in the home environment so residential treatment can help change their behaviors. These youth exhibit behaviors and problems that cannot be fixed quickly and they need intense interventions with constant monitoring and supports. Problems for youth can be broadly divided into three areas: mental health, drug and alcohol, and behavioral issues.

Residential Treatment facilities have therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists and other trained professionals who work together as an integrated team with the youth. Individual and family counseling sessions as well as group sessions take place that help the youth deal with their problems and modify behaviors. Families are an important part of the change process and are actively involved in treatment. Education continues generally on-site in order to enhance academic progress. Skills helpful in daily living are taught to aid in long term change.

Choosing a residential treatment program can be difficult but the benefits are worthwhile. The unified cooperative environment offered means the youth and their family can heal together. There are several things that should be considered when choosing a residential treatment center:

1. What is the problem? Do not self-diagnosis. Talk with your family physician and get the opinion of a specialist or other professional. Find out all the facts about your child’s condition. The professionals will help you determine if residential treatment is the appropriate level of care. They will discuss with you other treatment options that you have tried that have not been successful.
2. Knowing about your child’s condition enables you to find residential treatment centers that have a reputation for dealing with youth with the same or similar problems and conditions. Ask professionals for recommendations and check residential websites to see what is available in your geographic area. Specific residential websites will also give you enough information and ideas about what questions to ask. Talk with staff at the facility to understand intake process and for an overview of programming. Take a tour of the facility if at all possible
3. Residential treatment is not cheap. Find out costs and determine if your insurance will cover residential treatment. Find out if the facility offers any financial plans which would enable you to meet the cost. Be flexible. If there’s a facility you really like but cannot afford, try thinking outside of the box.

For more information read Tips on Choosing a Residential Treatment Facility and Children and Residential Treatment.