Adolescent Acute Program
The Adolescent Acute Program helps stabilize adolescents, ages 13-17, who are in an immediate crisis while providing the adolescent with skills to help minimize future incidents.
Admissions criteria:
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Sexually acting out
- Poor interaction with authority figures
- Violent, impulsive outbursts
- Suicidal or homicidal thoughts or acts
- Depression or withdrawal
- Psychosis
Treatment Overview
We perform a thorough assessment of each child and develop a specific plan for each adolescent. The treatment team assesses the needs of the individual and provides a supportive, respectful environment that encourages and reinforces positive behaviors, such as:
- Goal setting
- Individual and family therapy
- Academic continuum
- Aftercare planning
Therapies used:
- Formal group therapies
- Experiential therapies
- Recreational therapies
- Music therapies
Some adolescents participate in chemical dependency educational groups. Activities and discussions during these sessions focus on the following themes:
- Conflict resolution
- Chemical dependency
- Trust
- Education
- Accountability
- Problem solving
- Social skills
- Positive thinking
- Positive peer relationships
- Anger and aggression management
- Respect for authority
- Expression of feelings (regarding self and others)
- Impulse Control/Delayed Gratification
Education
Adolescents remain enrolled in their home school and complete homework assignments during school hours. Adolescents receive tutoring and each student's home school receives progress reports, helping adolescents transition to their normal academic schedule upon discharge.
Family Involvement
Family therapists explore ways to prevent future crises while working with parents and adolescents to communicate effectively. We teach the positive reinforcement approach so parents may continue these supportive and effective methods at home. A family education group is also available for those in need of substance abuse education.
Discharge and Aftercare
We develop an aftercare plan for each adolescent and coordinate this plan in conjunction with the referring professional from the adolescent's home community. Aftercare components include home behavioral management programs, multi-family community support groups, day treatment services and participation in individual and family therapies.
For More Information
If you have any questions about the Adolescent Acute Treatment Program contact us at (210) 491-9400 or (800) 624-7975.
