Treatment and
placement options
for troubled teens

Over the years, Dr. Paul and Dr. Ashley have provided highly effective, solution-focused outpatient therapy to thousands of teens and their families. They have also personally visited and evaluated many therapeutic boarding schools and treatment programs all over the U.S. Their in-depth, firsthand knowledge of the available options is a critical resource for parents who are faced with the daunting task of choosing the most appropriate therapy and/or placement for their child.

Because each teen is unique and each family is unique, Dr. Paul and Dr. Ashley are committed to finding a program that is right for your teen and your family. Placement options typically fall into one of the following categories:

Outpatient Therapy
Dr. Paul and Dr. Ashley will work personally with your teen and your family, utilizing a no-nonsense approach that has achieved excellent results for thousands of troubled teens.

Therapeutic Boarding Schools
Focused on emotional growth in a therapeutic setting, these schools integrate education with a structure that supports physical, emotional, behavioral, familial, social and academic development. Each school varies in its methods, so it is important to ask questions about the school’s approach to the emotional and behavioral needs of your child.

Outdoor Behavioral Health
Commonly known as wilderness programs, these facilities provide therapeutic treatments in a backcountry environment. Many programs offer personalized treatment plans tailored to the clinical assessment of your child. The focus on task accomplishment promotes personal independence, and the group dynamic introduces a social therapeutic tool that is a welcome alternative for many teens.

Residential Treatment Centers
For adolescents with serious psychological and behavioral issues, residential treatment centers provide behavioral support, medication management and medical monitoring. They are highly structured and provide group and individual therapy programs. Many residential centers specialize in specific issues, such as eating disorders or drug rehabilitation.

Small Residential Programs
These programs are designed to mirror family-like settings and focus on the relationships formed in small, intimate environments. They typically take a holistic approach to therapy. Life skills training, academic instruction, outdoor adventure and family involvement all become part of the treatment. Like larger residential treatment centers, small programs typically maintain a specialty.

Transitional Independent Living Programs
Designed for young adults (18+) who need a support system as they transition to adulthood, these programs help young people integrate into the community. Most offer educational programs linked to local colleges, as well as employment and community service opportunities. Small group homes and independent apartment living options are available.

These descriptions have been developed by the National Association of Therapeutic Schools & Programs (NATSAP).

Adolescent Alternatives acts as an independent educational consultant and accepts no fees, commissions or remunerations from schools or programs. The sole source of income for these services is fees for service paid directly by clients. Adolescent Alternatives cannot guarantee admission to or success at a school or program.