Being a teenager can be tough, and so can being the parent of a teenager. Most teenagers go through rough patches where they tangle with family and friends, but what do you do if your teen is really out of control? For most, the first choice would be counselling or therapy, possibly even an intensive outpatient program. These are all good ideas to start with when you think things might be going wrong with your teenager. But if your teen is using drugs or experiencing a serious ongoing mental health condition, you may find yourself in the position of looking for treatment programs for troubled teens.
Problem teenager programs come in many varieties, and it can help you make a good choice for your family to learn about the types of troubled teenager programs available. Contact Venture Academy at 866.762.2211 for more information about how we can help.
What Is a Troubled Teenager Treatment Program?
Troubled teenager programs are programs, often residential, that help young people who are dealing with serious and severe mental health, behavioural, or substance abuse problems. Sometimes, if a teenager gets in trouble with the law, their participation in one of these programs may be court-mandated or offered as an alternative to the correctional system. Frequently, the teenagers attending the program also attend school while receiving counselling and treatment.
What Are the Types of Troubled Teenager Treatment Programs?
There are several different types of troubled teenager programs that are commonly available. It is important, of course, that parents research each individual program thoroughly to ensure that it meets the needs of their child and their family and that the program itself is reputable and uses best clinical practices for adolescent care.
Some of the common types of troubled teen programs are:
- Wilderness Programs—This type of program combines wilderness encounters, survival skills, and discipline. The goal of a wilderness program is to help teens who are struggling learn to work together with others, respect themselves and those who are instructing them, and to overcome adverse situations.
- Boot Camps—This type of program uses strict military discipline and physical activities to instill a sense of confidence and respect for authority in teenagers who are experiencing behavioural issues.
- Residential Treatment Programs—This program type tends to be long-term, usually six months or longer, and works primarily with teenagers who are experiencing mental and behavioural health issues or substance use disorders.
- Therapeutic Boarding Schools—This type of program operates as both a school and a treatment centre. Frequently, teenagers who have experienced mental health issues, behavioural problems, or other conditions that require intensive treatment might find themselves falling behind on schoolwork or requiring special support in their learning environments. This kind of program provides for treatment as well as education.
How to Find a Troubled Teenager Treatment Program That Meets Your Needs
Parents are usually at their wit’s end when they realize that a residential program might be the best option for their child. However, it still makes sense to do research and find a reputable program that caters to the specific circumstances of the teenager and uses appropriate treatment methods. Contacting a program directly to ask questions is the best way to learn specific information about what is offered, how long a program lasts, and other important information. It can also be helpful to engage with a case manager or outside therapist for recommendations.
Venture Academy Is Canada’s Premiere Adolescent Treatment Centre
At our three locations across Canada, we offer a variety of programs and therapeutic methods for your struggling teenager. Our staff has the knowledge and expertise to guide your young person back on track so that they can achieve their full potential. If your child needs help, contact us today at 866.762.2211.
