Choosing a treatment center is difficult and there are many factors that will undoubtedly be a part of your decision. Here are some to keep in mind when determining whether or not a program is a good fit for your teen and your family as a whole.
1. Services Offered
First and foremost it’s important to understand what you’re looking for in a treatment center and to ensure that the program you choose offers those services. In other words, try to find a center that caters to your teen’s unique situation. Some centers have different approaches to recovery; for example, some addiction recovery facilities focus on a harm reduction model rather than total sobriety. Be sure that a treatment center offers the services that your teen needs when considering sending them there.
2. Location, Location, Location
Finding the right location for a teen in recovery isn’t always straight forward, as the ideal location for an individual can vary. Some teens would benefit from a treatment center that is closer to home while others would benefit from one that is out of town. If your teen is being impacted negatively by the location of the program, then this is a sign that it isn’t the right center for them.
3. Signs of Success
You want your teen to be in a treatment center that has a good success rate and proper accreditation. Therefore, it’s important to do some research to ensure that the treatment center is run by licensed, well-trained mental health professionals and addiction specialists. Otherwise, it definitely isn’t a good fit for your teen.
4. Aftercare and Family Support
Does the treatment center you’re considering offer after-program care and family support? This element is truly important to the long-term success of your teen’s recovery. Be sure to ask the treatment center about family therapy options and post-program follow-ups to understand how they will continue to support your teen after they leave the treatment center. Does the treatment center you’re considering offer after-program care and family support? This element is truly important to the long-term success of your teen’s recovery.
Feature image Zaahirah Bhamjee
