As a parent, it can be overwhelming when your teen is experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties, and understanding the appropriate level of care is crucial to ensuring their safety and well-being. Whether it's dealing with anxiety, depression, or more severe emotional issues, knowing what options are available and when to escalate care can make all the difference.

In today’s blog, I want to provide an overview of the different levels of care, based on my own experiences with families going through similar challenges.

1. Outpatient Therapy: The First Step

For many teens dealing with emotional or behavioral issues, outpatient therapy is often the most appropriate starting point. This typically involves weekly or biweekly sessions with a therapist who specializes in treating adolescents. Outpatient therapy focuses on helping teens develop coping strategies, emotional regulation, and addressing any underlying issues they may be facing.

This level of care works well when safety risks are minimal, and the teen is not exhibiting signs of danger to themselves or others.

2. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) or Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

When the risk escalates—such as concerns about safety, severe depression, or behavioral issues—it's important to consider a higher level of care. This is where Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) or Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) come into play.

These programs involve daily or weekly treatment in a structured environment. Teens attend therapy sessions, group counseling, and family therapy to address their needs comprehensively. The goal of these programs is to provide stabilization and prevent the need for hospitalization.

Tip for Parents: When seeking PHP or IOP, evaluations are typically done at local behavioral health centers, such as Linden Oaks in Naperville or Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health in Hoffman Estates. Be prepared for the initial assessment, which may take several hours.

3. Inpatient Hospitalization: When Immediate Risk is Present

If the teen is considered an acute risk to themselves or others—such as in cases of severe self-harm or suicidal ideation—inpatient hospitalization may be recommended. This is typically a short-term solution focused on stabilizing the immediate crisis. After discharge, teens often continue treatment in a PHP or IOP program to maintain their progress.

Hospitalization offers 24-hour supervision, medical care, and therapeutic support to ensure the teen is safe and receiving the appropriate interventions.

4. Residential Treatment: Long-Term Care for Severe Cases

In more severe cases, where behaviors such as violence, school refusal, or repeated suicide attempts are present, residential treatment may be the best option. This involves living at a treatment center for an extended period, often ranging from six months to a year.

During residential treatment, teens participate in intensive therapy, structured activities, and family therapy sessions. Progress is typically evaluated in phases, and as the teen nears discharge, home visits are introduced to help transition back to everyday life.

There are consultants in the area who specialize in helping families find the right residential treatment center for their child, both in-state and out-of-state.

Coordinating with Your Outpatient Therapist

No matter which level of care is appropriate, it’s critical to maintain coordinated efforts with the treating outpatient therapist to ensure continuity of care. Working together with your teen’s therapist and other professionals can make the process smoother and more effective in helping your teen reach stability and wellness.

Conclusion

Understanding the levels of care available for your teen can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to know there are options. Whether it's outpatient therapy or more intensive residential treatment, the key is to find the most appropriate level of care to ensure your teen’s safety and promote lasting emotional stability.

If you have any concerns about your teen’s mental health or are unsure about what level of care they need, feel free to reach out to our office for guidance.