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The mental health landscape for teens in Texas presents a complex array of challenges and needs, reflecting broader trends across the United States. In recent years, the state has seen an increasing recognition of the importance of substance abuse and mental health care for adolescents, spurred by rising rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders among this age group.
The 2016 report by Texans for Safe and Drug-Free Youth, Youth Substance Use Rates and Trends, spells out the then-current landscape for substance use by Texan youth. Since then the shocking rise of Fentanyl use has come to the fore. Public education events about the Fentanyl crisis, such as this one at Thomas Jefferson High School in Northwest Dallas, are tragically becoming more common and necessary.
Texas, like many regions, grapples with issues of accessibility, stigma, and resource allocation, making the task of providing effective care to teens for mental health and substance use disorder a pressing concern.
The importance of selecting the appropriate level of care for your teen—be it inpatient, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), or other mental health services—cannot be overstated. Each level offers distinct benefits and is suited to different severity levels of mental health challenges.
Choosing the right one can significantly influence your teenager’s recovery journey, underscoring the need for careful assessment and personalized care plans. This decision is key not only for the immediate well-being of your teen but also for their long-term recovery and mental health resilience.
Deciphering Levels of Teen Care
Understanding the various levels of care available for teens facing mental health challenges is essential for finding the most effective treatment pathway. Each level, from inpatient programs to online treatment options, serves unique needs, offering different environments, intensities of care, and therapeutic approaches. Understanding these distinctions is important for parents and guardians to make informed decisions that best support their teen’s recovery and long-term mental health.
Inpatient Programs
Inpatient programs provide the highest level of care, with 24-hour supervision and medical support in a hospital or clinic setting. This option is best suited for teens experiencing acute mental health crises that pose a risk to themselves or others, requiring immediate and intensive intervention. The scope of inpatient care includes stabilization, comprehensive assessment, and the initiation of therapeutic interventions in a secure, structured environment.
Benefits include rapid access to psychiatric care, medication management, and a multidisciplinary team approach. However, there are drawbacks: the intensive nature of the program can be disruptive to a teen’s life, and the transition back to daily life post-discharge requires careful planning to ensure continued support.
Residential Treatment (RTC)
Residential treatment centers (RTCs) offer a step down from the acute care of inpatient programs, providing long-term care in a live-in facility. Unlike inpatient care, which is focused on stabilization, RTCs offer an immersive therapeutic environment designed for teens with complex, ongoing mental health needs that cannot be adequately addressed in a less restrictive setting.
The environment in RTCs is less hospital-like and more homelike, with a longer duration of stay ranging from several months to over a year. This setting allows for a deeper exploration of issues, incorporation of educational needs, and a broad array of therapeutic approaches, including individual therapy, group sessions, and family involvement.
The main benefits are the intensity and continuity of care; however, the separation from home and community and the cost are significant considerations.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
PHPs serve as a critical midpoint between inpatient/residential care and outpatient services. These programs typically require teens to attend the facility for 5 to 7 days a week, for several hours each day, allowing them to return home at night.
PHPs are structured around a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, and sometimes educational services, providing a high level of support without full-time residential care. This model is ideal for teens who require intensive treatment but are stable enough to not need 24-hour supervision.
The benefits include maintaining some normalcy in daily life and the opportunity for real-time application of skills learned in therapy. The primary limitation is the need for a supportive home environment and the ability to transport the teen to and from the program.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
IOPs offer more flexibility than PHPs, with teens typically attending sessions 3 to 5 days per week for a few hours each day. This level of care is suited for adolescents who are stepping down from more intensive programs or those whose needs are significant but do not require full-day programming. Explore more about the benefits of IOP for adolescents.
IOPs focus on continuing therapy, skill development, and support, to facilitate recovery while integrating the teen back into their daily routines. The comparison with PHP lies in the reduced time commitment and the gradual shift towards greater autonomy and reliance on community and family support systems.
Outpatient Therapy
Outpatient therapy represents the traditional model of care, involving weekly sessions with a mental health professional. This level of care is best suited for teens who need less intensive support, focusing on managing symptoms, improving coping strategies, and addressing specific psychological issues.
Outpatient therapy for teens offers the greatest flexibility, allowing treatment to be tailored to the individual’s schedule and needs, and is often used as a long-term strategy for maintaining mental health.
Online Treatment Options
The advent of teletherapy and digital mental health platforms has revolutionized access to care, providing flexible, accessible options for teens and their families. Online treatment for teens can range from video conferencing with therapists to digital platforms offering therapeutic tools and support. This option breaks down barriers to treatment, such as geographical limitations and scheduling conflicts, making mental health support more accessible to a broader audience.
While the effectiveness of online treatment can vary depending on the individual and the specific issues being addressed, it offers a valuable resource for ongoing support, particularly for teens comfortable with digital communication. However, the reliance on technology and the need for a private, secure space for sessions are important considerations.
Understanding the spectrum of care available for teens with mental health challenges is vital for selecting the most appropriate and effective level of support. Each level of care offers unique benefits and addresses different needs, emphasizing the importance of personalized assessment and planning in the journey toward mental health recovery.
Comparative Analysis and Research Insights
Here’s a concise comparative analysis in table format, focusing on treatment options for teen mental health care.
Research Insights and Expert Recommendations
Approximately 5 percent of U.S. adolescents will develop problematic patterns of use that meet the criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD) [1]. However, only 7 percent of adolescents in need of substance abuse treatment receive some form of treatment. [2]
As Dr. Nora Volkow, MD, Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) stated, “The ability to access timely, evidence-based treatment for addiction can be a matter of life or death, and the current system too often fails young people. We need to make access to timely, affordable, and evidence-based care the norm across treatment settings.” [3]
Not only is it difficult to find affordable treatment for teens, but for those who do, unfortunately, a return to drug use (or relapse) is a fairly common occurrence among adolescents [4]. Among youth treated for alcohol or drug problems, one-third to one-half are likely to return to some drug use at least once within 12 months following treatment.
Having a range of treatment options provides more choices and increases the chances of successful recovery. A summary of some research on this topic follows:
Inpatient Programs
A recent study [5] underscored the efficacy of inpatient care for teens with co-occurring disorders in a secure inpatient unit at a mental health center in Toronto, Canada, noting that few studies exist. Treatment approaches included evidence-based methods for addressing the various presentations served, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Motivation Enhancement Therapy, and family therapy. However, the authors noted the importance of ongoing care post-discharge from intensive treatment settings.
Residential Treatment (RTC)
One study cited research concluding that “the outcome literature of adolescent residential and inpatient treatment indicates that these therapeutic settings are successful interventions for many clients” [6]. Research indicates that RTCs are effective for complex, chronic conditions, offering comprehensive therapeutic interventions. Studies emphasize the importance of individualized treatment plans and the integration of educational programs to mitigate academic disruption.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
A small study reported the “study has provided some preliminary support for PHPs as a potentially effective strategy for treating adolescents within an intensive therapeutic milieu”. [7]. PHPs are effective in providing intensive care without the need for 24-hour supervision. Research supports their use as a step-down from inpatient care or as an alternative to hospitalization, with positive outcomes in symptom management and functionality.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
Evidence suggests IOPs are effective in addressing moderate mental health issues and facilitating the transition to community living. One study suggested there is a “benefit in concurrent treatment of substance use disorder and co-occurring mood and anxiety disorders using an IOP model” [8]. Comparative studies with PHPs indicate similar effectiveness in symptom improvement, with the added benefit of greater flexibility.
Outpatient Therapy
Outpatient care is widely supported for the ongoing management of mental health conditions, with a vast array of studies confirming its effectiveness across different therapeutic modalities. The flexibility and less intensive nature allow for a tailored approach, fitting into the teen’s existing schedule and minimizing academic impact.
One study reported that “the majority of adolescents who start outpatient treatment for substance abuse problems return to a lesser extent in registers (government or health records Ed.) that may indicate a continued problem with alcohol and drugs one year later.” [9] This is not inconsistent with studies of many adolescents for a variety of reasons, including peer group pressure and a still immature level of cognitive executive functioning (reasoning among others) compared to adults.
Online Treatment Options
Emerging research on teletherapy and digital platforms shows promising outcomes, particularly in accessibility and reducing barriers to care [10]. Studies highlight the importance of interactive and engaging content to enhance efficacy, with some indicating comparable results to face-to-face therapy in certain contexts. More recently developed immersive and interactive technologies such as virtual reality and game-based interventions also call for further exploration.
Summary
Experts recommend a stepped-care model, starting with the least restrictive option that is likely to provide effective care, and moving to more intensive levels of care as needed. The choice of treatment should be guided by a comprehensive assessment of the teen’s mental health condition, social and academic needs, and family preferences. In addition, harm reduction approaches need to be taken into consideration.
Choosing the Best Treatment Path
Choosing the best treatment path for a teen facing mental health challenges involves a careful evaluation of the teen’s individual needs, the specific offerings of each treatment level, and the family’s resources, including the coverage provided by private insurance.
A thorough assessment by mental health professionals is paramount in guiding this choice, ensuring that the treatment selected aligns with the teen’s current mental health status, resilience, and capacity to engage with the treatment process. Here’s a guide for parents navigating this complex landscape:
Guide for Evaluating Your Teen’s Needs
Assess the Severity of Symptoms
The intensity of your teen’s symptoms will largely dictate the required level of care. Acute, severe symptoms may necessitate inpatient care, while less severe situations might be appropriately addressed with outpatient services or online therapy.
Consider Your Teen’s Environment
Evaluate whether the teen’s current environment contributes to their mental health issues. In some cases, a change of environment provided by residential treatment or a PHP might be beneficial.
Understand Treatment Offerings
Familiarize yourself with the specific therapies, support services, and educational accommodations offered by each treatment option. Match these offerings with what you perceive as your teen’s needs.
Insurance Coverage
Investigate how your private insurance can influence the choice of treatment. Coverage varies widely, so understanding your policy’s specifics regarding mental health care is crucial.
If you’re covered by private insurance and curious about whether it includes provisions for addiction or mental health treatment for your teenager, we’re here to assist. Click here to connect with us directly via phone. We are open 24/7.
Critical Questions for Parents
- What is the goal of the treatment, and how does it align with our teen’s needs?
- How does the program integrate family involvement?
- What types of therapy and support services are offered, and are they evidence-based?
- How does the treatment plan address academic continuation or support?
- What is our insurance coverage for the proposed treatment, and what will be our out-of-pocket costs?
- How does the program facilitate a transition to less intensive care or returning home?
Importance of Thorough Assessment
The cornerstone of choosing the best treatment path is a comprehensive assessment conducted by mental health professionals. This assessment should evaluate:
- Your teen’s mental health condition
- Their social skills
- Academic standing
- Family dynamics
- Any co-occurring disorders (other mental health conditions)
Mental health professionals use this information to recommend a level of care that best suits the teen’s needs, balancing the necessity for intensive treatment with the goal of minimal disruption to the teen’s life and development. Engaging in this process ensures that the chosen treatment path is personalized, addressing the unique aspects of the teen’s condition and setting the stage for effective recovery and long-term well-being.
Discover Clearfork Academy’s New Innovative IOP Program
Looking for a transformative Intensive Outpatient Program for your teen? Discover Clearfork Academy’s new facility in Carrollton, Texas.
Our IOP is designed to provide effective, compassionate care for teens struggling with mental health and substance use issues. Families from across the USA choose Clearfork Academy, often arranging stays with family in the DFW area, to take advantage of our program known for its effectiveness.
We offer all levels of care; but if you’re a parent or guardian who would like to learn about an option that will maintain the balance between recovery and optimizing academic performance, explore IOP and how we can support your teen’s journey to recovery. Visit us to learn more about our approach and how we work together as part of your teen’s path to wellness.
Sources
Texans for Safe and Drug-Free Youth. 2016. Youth Substance Use Rates and Trends
[1] Fadus. M. et al., 2019. Adolescent Substance Use Disorder Treatment: An Update on Evidence-Based Strategies. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2019 Sep 14; 21(10): 96.
Published online 2019 Sep 14. doi: 10.1007/s11920-019-1086-0
[2] Ringle, J. et al. 2012. 12-month follow-up outcomes for youth departing and integrated residential continuum of care. Child Youth Serv Rev. 2012 Apr; 34(4): 10.1016/j.childyouth.2011.12.013. doi: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2011.12.013.
[3] National Institute of Health. 2024. Residential addiction treatment for adolescents is scarce and expensive.
[4] Winters. K. et al. 2011. Advances in Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2011 Oct; 13(5): 416–421. doi: 10.1007/s11920-011-0214-2
[5] Rosenkranz, S. et al. 2023. Outcomes among youth attending inpatient treatment for co-occurring disorders. Open Access. https://doi.org/10.1111/eip.13450
[6] Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. 2011. Residential Treatment Centers.
[7] Lenz, A. S. et. al. 2014. Evaluation of a Partial Hospitalization Program for Adolescents. Counseling Outcome Research and Evaluation.
[8] Watkins, L. et. al. 2023. Clinical Effectiveness of an Intensive Outpatient Program for Integrated Treatment of Comorbid Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorders.Cognitive and Behavioral Practice. Volume 30, Issue 3, August 2023, Pages 354-366
[9] Anderberg, 2021. M. et. al. Adolescents with substance abuse problems in outpatient treatment: A one-year prospective follow-up study. Sage Journals. Nordic Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. Volume 38, Issue 5 https://doi.org/10.1177/14550725219956
[10] Monargue, M. et. al. 2023. Digital interventions for substance use disorders in young people: rapid review. Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy. volume 18, Article number: 13 (2023)
Originally from the Saginaw, Eagle Mountain area, Austin Davis earned a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry from Lee University in Cleveland, TN and a Master of Arts in Counseling from The Church of God Theological Seminary. He then went on to become a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor in the State of Texas.
Austin’s professional history includes both local church ministry and clinical counseling. At a young age, he began serving youth at the local church in various capacities which led to clinical training and education. Austin gained a vast knowledge of mental health disorders while working in state and public mental health hospitals. This is where he was exposed to almost every type of diagnosis and carries this experience into the daily treatment.
Austin’s longtime passion is Clearfork Academy, a christ-centered residential facility focused on mental health and substance abuse. He finds joy and fulfillment working with “difficult” clients that challenge his heart and clinical skill set. It is his hope and desire that each resident that passes through Clearfork Academy will be one step closer to their created design.
Austin’s greatest pleasures in life are being a husband to his wife, and a father to his growing children. He serves at his local church by playing guitar, speaking and helping with tech arts. Austin also enjoys being physically active, reading, woodworking, and music.
