For troubled teens who are struggling with drug abuse, depression or other serious issues, residential treatment centers that offer therapy-based solutions might be the best option. Residential treatment centers usually have a complete psychiatric staff available to monitor each troubled teen closely and provide therapy in addition to a curriculum of academics, exercise and personal development. Programs, which provide 24-hour supervision, structure and treatment, usually last from three to six months, although teens can attend for a longer period of time if necessary. These programs also work with families to identify issues in the home and address them so that teens have a supportive, structured home to return to after treatment.

There are three main types of residential treatment centers: therapeutic treatment programs, residential drug treatment centers, and combination residential-treatment programs. Each is geared toward helping troubled teens address and conquer a specific problem or multiple problems. Therapeutic treatment programs assist teens with psychiatric issues or suicidal tendencies, residential drug treatment centers offer specific help for substance abuse or addiction, and combination residential treatment programs address both psychiatric and drug abuse issues.

Although residential treatment centers generally have a high success rate in comparison to other programs, the biggest drawback to this type of placement is usually the cost. They can start at $3,000-$4,000 per month go as high as $8,000 per month, depending on the services offered. Unlike most programs, however, some insurance companies will pay partial tuition for residential treatment centers, although they usually must be accredited programs.

For parents who are interested in a residential treatment center for their troubled teen, there are several things to look for, including a program’s verifiable statistics showing success rates, aftercare services once the teen leaves the center, therapy provided to address a teen’s specific issues. Other concerns include verifying that a program is licensed; this may affect whether an insurance companies will assist with the cost of tuition. Finally, confirm whether the staff is properly licensed and trained and whether there are medical doctors on staff.

A teen in crisis has a dramatic and negative impact on the whole family, but parents who act proactively to seek the appropriate treatment for their troubled teen will realize that lasting solutions are available and can salvage and even strengthen the relationship between parent and teen.