Many of today’s troubled teens need the expert help, support, and guidance, which certain Residential Treatment Centers (RTC) can provide, but parents must heavily weigh the pros and cons before making a decision to place their child in such a place. The sooner a troubled teenager receives appropriate care, the better, as unhealthy habits or destructive behaviors only dig deeper roots the longer they have time to grow.
Loving parents want their children to grow up and become happy, healthy and productive adults. But if their children’s choices are taking them down a dangerous road, quick action should be taken to redirect their path onto one of progress and personal growth.
RTC pros and cons
When looking into Residential Treatment Centers, parents should give first consideration to their child’s specific needs and issues. Every RTC may provide help for troubled teens, yet each may vary on the specific methods of therapeutic care, treatment philosophies, program details, and after-care programs. When a home environment is confrontational; when school performance is taking a downward plunge; or when peer groups are a negative influence, the removal of a child from their surroundings can provide an opportunity for a fresh start. Both the child and the family receive a much-needed reprieve from the chaos and damage control, all while obtaining new communication skills, coping techniques, and self-management abilities.
When a child is placed among other peers who are struggling with issues themselves, they quickly realize that they are not so unique after all, and begin to make personal changes which will enable them to rise above their problems, and conquer them. However, being with other troubled teens also has its disadvantages, as a child can be exposed to new emotional and behavioral problems. Yet, with a well-trained staff, these experiences can be minimized and processed in a healthy way.
Residential Treatment Centers can also be costly. Trained staff members are on hand 24/7, with educational instructors , food handlers, medical providers, and licensed therapists. Lodging, meals, community projects, and recreational activities are provided, all of which create expenses. Many insurance companies provide some form of mental health coverage with some policies, so it would be advantageous to confirm with your agent to learn what expenses would be covered by insurance.
This is a big decision for parents to make, and one which should not be made in haste. Take the time you need to research various programs and obtain the facts that you need in order to feel informed and confident that you have made the best decision possible for your child.
