A residential treatment program provides a highly structured and supportive environment for individuals to recover from mental health disorders. The residential treatment experience is a step up from outpatient therapy and offers 24 hour supervision in a home-like setting. It allows clients to focus on recovery activities away from family and friends, and a regular schedule of sleep, meals, and mental health and medical appointments.
The residential treatment program is a safe place for people to develop and practice healthy relationships, communication and life skills that will benefit them in their recovery from emotional distress and mental illness. It also allows them to learn how to cope with stress, conflict and trauma in a healthy way. Many of these skills are difficult to learn outside of a therapeutic community where the client lives with other people in similar circumstances.
Residential treatment is typically recommended for those whose biomedical and withdrawal needs are minimal to moderate, but who have substantial psychosocial problems. These patients may have a combination of psychiatric disorders, including addiction, that require intensive care.
Most residential programs are clinically managed, with a licensed psychiatrist on staff to provide medication and to oversee the clinical team. These programs are often smaller than inpatient facilities, and offer more structured environments. They may use a variety of treatment approaches and techniques to help clients manage symptoms, such as group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and family therapy.
Some residential programs have a more formal structure than others, with strict rules and routines. For example, some residential programs have a set schedule from wake-up to bedtime, daily chores, scheduled mental health and medical appointments, and leisure and exercise time. Others are more relaxed and allow for greater freedom outside of treatment hours, so that clients can continue to maintain their commitments at work, school and home.
A residential treatment program also provides the opportunity to experiment with new creative and emotional outlets, in a safe and supportive environment. The camaraderie of fellow residents can be a powerful force in supporting the individual, and encouraging them to stay focused on their recovery.
For teens in particular, having a strong support system during this tough time is vital for a positive outcome in their treatment. Many residential treatment programs are designed to be family oriented, and offer opportunities for parents or siblings to visit their children during the program.
When considering a residential treatment program, it is important to consider the length of the residential program, as well as whether the facility is In-network with your insurance provider. This can make a significant difference in the cost of the program. Contact the program you are interested in to verify your insurance coverage, as well as their payment and financing options.
