Finding the right program for troubled teens can be difficult without knowing what options are available. Some troubled youth programs are voluntary, while others require court-mandated attendance.
By understanding the types of troubled teen programs available, you can more easily decide which one would be the best fit for your teen’s needs.
Court-Ordered Troubled Youth Programs
Parents are often more familiar with court-ordered troubled youth programs, as they are frequently depicted in media, movies, and TV.
Beyond juvenile prison, there are court-mandated boot camps and other programs for troubled teens designed to manage children and teens who have engaged in repeat criminal behavior. These programs only accept juveniles assigned by the court system; parents cannot voluntarily enroll their teens in these programs.
However, that is for the best, as these court-ordered troubled youth programs typically offer minimal rehabilitation or therapeutic benefits. What a troubled teen needs is therapeutic help in a disciplined environment, not integration into the penal system.
Troubled Teen Boot Camp And Wilderness Camps
Parents are often initially interested in boot camps and wilderness camps for troubled teens, hoping their children will "shape up" after a stint in these environments. However, this approach is often misguided.
At wilderness camps, teens may learn new outdoor skills, but the main focus of these camps is obedience to authority. Similarly, boot camps emphasize following orders and penalize infractions with physical exercise.
While this structure might appeal to frustrated parents, these types of troubled teen programs fail to address the underlying issues causing problematic behaviors. Without a therapeutic component, teens often return home without the tools needed to overcome their struggles.
Residential Treatment Centers For Troubled Teens
Residential treatment centers are often the most effective option for helping teens overcome their struggles and thrive. Combining a structured environment with intensive therapy, these centers require teens to live on-site for six months to several years, depending on their needs.
In a residential treatment center, teens attend weekly one-on-one therapy sessions and daily group therapy, ensuring consistent progress. These centers also integrate academic studies and extracurricular activities, helping teens rebuild their lives holistically.
A variation of this model is the therapeutic boarding school, which operates similarly. For instance, in Utah, a residential treatment center must first meet the criteria of a therapeutic boarding school before gaining certification. For parents seeking immersive therapeutic options, residential treatment centers offer the most comprehensive support.
Choosing the Right Program for Your Teen
When selecting among the types of troubled teen programs, consider the following:
Does the program include licensed therapists and counselors?
Are academic services part of the program?
How is discipline balanced with emotional support?
What are the success rates or testimonials from past participants?
Are there follow-up services to support teens after they complete the program?
Taking time to evaluate these aspects can help ensure you select a program tailored to your teen’s needs.
To learn more about our program and how we help teenage boys reach their potential, feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. Our program advisors are ready to provide information about our therapeutic approaches, academic offerings, and post-program support. We’ll help you determine if our program is the right fit for your son.