Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Program
Most people recall their adolescent years as a time of challenge laced with
difficulty. But for some teenagers, the emergence into adulthood is particularly
stressful, often leading to self-destructive behavior that tears to the very
fabric of the family. Lack of control, poor self-esteem and erratic mood shifts
can severely strain relationships with parents, siblings and peers.
The manner in which adolescents cope with today's problems becomes crucial in
their development. But the pressure they face often lead to confusion, and
behaviors that parents find almost impossible to address effectively in the home
environment.
Yet there is help available, once parents know where to turn. When teenager's
behavior creates problems with which the family can no longer cope, we provide a
caring, comprehensive program to get the young adult back on a healthy path to
adulthood.
Therapy Individual To The
Adolescent's Needs
The patient and family participate in the initial evaluation process, working
with our clinical professionals to develop a comprehensive profile and history.
An individual treatment plan is then developed for each patient. Attainable
short- and long-term treatment goals are established, serving as a benchmark
against which progress can be accurately measured.
When an adolescent child joins our safe, structured environment, he or she
receives the holistic benefits of our team of therapists which may include
specialized teachers, psychologists, psychiatric nurses, social workers, family
counselors, patient counselors and activities therapists, all working under the
direction of a physician. Each teenager may have a dozen or more clinical
care-givers, optimizing success by bringing a diversity of perspectives to the
forefront.
An Environment Designed For
Adolescents
Each patient participates in individual, group and activities therapy on a
regular basis. In this peer-group setting, we help the young adult develop a
positive self-image, appropriate socialization skills and healthy communication
through the accrual of privileges, and the adolescent is evaluated by the
treatment team and by his or her peers.
Emphasis is placed on the identification of destructive behaviors and on gaining
insight into the emotions behind the actions. Through this discovery process,
adolescents learn to accept responsibility for their individual behavior and
develop healthy modes of interaction with others.
Family Involvement
Since adolescent emotional or behavioral problems touch all members of the
family involvement is an integral part of treatment. Group sessions help bring
the entire family into the treatment process, since hospitalization can, in and
of itself, be a difficult time. Family members are encouraged to resolve the
frustrations and hostilities that have developed. Healthy lines of
communications are thus opened which lead to a more integrated, well-adjusted
family unit.
School transcripts never reflect that part of a young adult's education has
been received in a psychiatric setting. To minimize disruption, our teachers
coordinate closely with the child's home school to ensure a parallel program of
education and continuity is maintained.
Support After Discharge
Care does not end with discharge from the program. After inpatient care is
complete, a strong follow-up program increases the chances for full recovery. An
individualized aftercare program offers continued support to both the patient
and the family, allowing for a smoother transition back into the home and school
environment. Aftercare may include a combination of individual, group and family
counseling on an outpatient basis.
24-Hour Admissions And
Support
Admissions are accepted on a 24-hour basis. Trained professionals are available
around the clock to listen and help you determine your next step. The initial
consultation is provided free of charge. For further details, or to schedule a
consultation, contact the hospital admissions department.
The hospital strives to be as cost-effective as possible in delivering the
highest standard of care. We work closely with patients, their families and
insurance companies in determining all payment options available. The hospital
is state-licensed and accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of
Healthcare Organizations.
24 Hr. Crisis Line
1-800-443-1109
Free
Assessment
24 Hrs a day / 7 days a week
