Programs for Troubled Teens & Components of Effective Youth Programs

Many programs exist to help troubled teens and families seeking change. While some programs seek only to occupy participants time, other treatment programs offer a variety of components that have proven beneficial in helping teens make life long changes and improvements in their lives. Key components of effective treatment programs include:

Behavior Modification-

Youth benefit from a program where appropriate behavior is reinforced and rewarded, and inappropriate behavior is confronted and redirected, with consequences given. Expect high standards, tight supervision, and opportunities for motivation and encouragement from an effective program.

Academics-

Many youth are able to earn high school credit while they attend an accredited treatment program. Enrolling in a treatment program with an academic component provides educational advancement and encouragement. Often class credits can be transferred to a college, university or local high school.

Activities-

Effective programs offer a balance of enriching activities. This may include recreation, exercise, learning, personal development and social opportunities.

Personal/ Emotional Development-

Youth should have opportunities to participate in introspective activities that help them make changes in their lives. An effective program will assist them as they evaluate what is and isn't working in their lives and determine how to make necessary changes.

Family Involvement-

Effective treatment programs provide opportunities for parental education as well as opportunities for families to rebuild. Some programs offer seminars for parents that coincide with seminars the youth are participating in, as well as family workshops.

Beware of programs with a boot camps structure or military school style.

Many programs exist to help teens and families seeking change. Local and low cost opportunities may be found in counseling and mental health centers. Intensive programs for families seeking immediate intervention include specialty boarding schools and treatment centers with programs tailored to meet the needs of your youth.

Specialty Boarding Schools and Treatment Centers

Specialty boarding schools and treatment centers are effective in helping troubled teens with behavior and conduct disorders. At a specialty boarding school, therapy may be available at an additional cost while treatment centers have therapists on staff. There are also Christian Boarding Schools available.

"Tough Love" Programs

"Tough love" programs may include youth boot camps, military schools, and wilderness camps. We do not promote these types of programs as they have not proven to be as effective as specialty boarding schools and treatment centers as long term solutions. These programs can go by various names including juvenile boot camp, military boot camp, etc.

Finding Teen Help

Parenting a troubled teenager can be overwhelming. There is help available to help you determine what type of program would be best for your youth. Call 1-866-644-2652 or fill out the online form for a free troubled teen consultation. A family advocate can help you in determining the needs of your teenager and family. You don't need to handle this alone, seek help.