Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is Laurel Ridge Treatment Center?

A: Our 18-acre wooded campus is located at the edge of the Texas Hill Country on the north side of San Antonio. Children and adolescents find peace and tranquility in this natural setting, and feel a sense of security in the supportive environment that enriches mental health therapy.

Q: How much therapy will my child receive?

A: Each child is individually assessed to determine the frequency and duration of therapy that he or she may need. Every weekday, the children receive five hours of schooling and two to three therapeutic group sessions. In addition, they participate in one or two family therapy sessions and one or two individual sessions weekly, depending on their personalized treatment plan.

Q: What types of therapy and counseling will my child receive?

A: Because family therapy is given the highest priority, Laurel Ridge strongly encourages one or two family sessions weekly. Group therapy is also important - every weekday the children participate in two or three therapeutic group sessions. Our therapy approach focuses on the importance of heavy community interaction and honest communication, and offers structured opportunities for social development with peers.

Q: What are the benefits of so much group therapy?

A: Studies have proven that group therapy helps children build relationships and encourages accountability among individuals within the group. Group therapy addresses medication, education, physical and mental health, safety, behavior, family, peer relationships and many other issues that are important to the children and their healing.

Q: How long is the average length of stay (LOS) for residential treatment?

A: The length of stay ultimately depends upon the therapeutic and clinical needs of each child and adolescent. Specific goals and objectives of treatment are identified and addressed throughout the child's stay at Laurel Ridge, which will impact the LOS. Most children and adolescents stay between 45-180 days, but others may extend their stay as therapy needs indicate.

Q: What educational services are provided?

A: While residing at Laurel Ridge, children and adolescents attend the Laurel Ridge Charter School, located on campus. Our Charter School provides a fully accredited educational program under the guidance of our specially trained teaching staff to afford an adaptive educational experience for each child and adolescent.

The educational component allows the children to keep pace with their peers during their residence with us, and is also integral to the healing process.

Q: What about family involvement and visiting schedules?

A: Active and supportive family involvement is critical to the successful outcome of each child's treatment goals and objectives. The child's family and/or caregivers are actively involved in all aspects of treatment. Family therapy sessions take place once a week or more often as needed.

Telephone conference sessions may be utilized if logistical problems preclude in-person sessions. Family visits and off-campus therapeutic passes are available as deemed appropriate by the treatment team and family.

Q: How are the meals and nutrition needs of my child handled?

A: Laurel Ridge has a full-service cafeteria, managed by a chef who ensures that the meals are healthy and fresh to meet the nutritional needs of each child and adolescent in our care, with special consideration for medical needs and ethnic or religious preferences.

Q: What does a typical day at Laurel Ridge look like?

A: Each day is structured and carefully scheduled. Each child/adolescent participates in five hours of school every weekday. Individual and family therapy is provided at least weekly, and age-appropriate therapy groups are scheduled five days a week. Specialized therapeutic services also provide individual group experiences seven days a week, utilizing a variety of creative tools. These include a state-of-the-art outdoor ROPES course, an Olympic-size swimming pool, an indoor gymnasium, creative art, dance movement, and music therapy.

Q: How do I know if my child is eligible for treatment, and how do I refer?

A: If your child or adolescent is struggling with academic, emotional, behavioral and/or legal problems, you are invited to give us a call for specific guidance. The call is free, confidential and includes no obligation. We will guide you through the simple referral process and can set up a tour of our treatment center for you and your family.