“We just want this to work” is a common refrain we hear from parents who are researching adolescent behavioral health treatment options for this teen. When your child is struggling with mental health and substance abuse, you want to find the best possible path to recovery. Research has shown that the longer teens spend in a therapeutic environment, the better their chances of long-term success. One effective approach has proven to be an extended care continuum which provides a comprehensive treatment plan that offers long-term, structured support for teens with co-occurring disorders. But what exactly is extended care, and why is it crucial for your child's journey to recovery?
For adolescents still in development, life’s transitions are challenging. For those in early recovery, they can be consequential. Extended care for adolescents in Orange County allows boys and girls in early recovery to continue the structure, education, healing, and accountability that they have experienced at inpatient or primary residential treatment for recovery that sustains.
The Extended Care program begins as residents arriving from a higher level of care are enrolled in our off-site Partial Hospitalization Program or Intensive Outpatient Program (PHP/IOP) — depending on the recommendations of their prior program and our team. They are welcomed into our community, and assigned an individual counselor and individual therapist that will help them adjust to Sustain Recovery.
These experts and our wider team then continue to guide each boy and girl in our care through the continued process of identifying and healing the underlying causes and conditions behind their substance use, co-occurring mental health disorders, and negative behavior patterns.
Extended care is vital for teens with co-occurring disorders—conditions where mental health issues and substance use disorders exist simultaneously. This demographic often requires a more tailored, multi-faceted approach to address their unique needs. An extended care continuum offers a structured environment where your child can receive the appropriate level of care at each stage of their recovery journey. Here's why choosing an extended care program can make a significant difference:
1. Comprehensive, Holistic Approach
Extended care programs take a holistic approach to treatment, addressing the mind, body, and spirit. This means not only focusing on symptom management but also on overall well-being. Therapies might include individual and group counseling, family therapy, educational support, life skills training, and recreational activities. By treating the whole person, extended care helps teens develop the tools they need to manage their disorders and lead healthier, more balanced lives.
2. Structured & Supportive Environment
The transition from a highly controlled environment, like inpatient treatment, back to everyday life can be overwhelming and lead to relapse. Extended care provides a structured and supportive setting that gradually steps down the level of care. This slow transition allows your child to practice new coping skills in a safe environment before fully re-entering the community. It helps build confidence and resilience, reducing the likelihood of falling back into old behaviors.
3. Focus on Long-Term Recovery
Recovery is a lifelong process. Extended care emphasizes long-term recovery by offering ongoing support long after the initial treatment phase. This includes continuous therapy, support groups, and regular check-ins with healthcare providers. By maintaining this level of support, extended care programs help your child stay focused on their recovery goals and build a solid foundation for a sober, healthy future.
4. Family Involvement & Education
Family plays a crucial role in a teen’s recovery process. Extended care programs often include family therapy sessions and educational workshops to help families understand the nature of co-occurring disorders and how to support their loved one effectively. This involvement is key to creating a supportive home environment that fosters recovery. When families are educated and engaged, they can better assist their child in navigating the challenges of recovery.
Selecting the right treatment program for your child is a personal and important decision. If you’re considering an extended care program for your teen, consider Sustain Adolescent Recovery. At our treatment program in Orange County, CA we’re dedicated to providing the support and resources needed for your child’s successful recovery journey. Together, we can help your child grow, heal, and thrive. Call today for more information.