Standard schools aren’t always suitable for troubled teens because they don’t provide the right programs and discipline that these types of youth need. A public school’s function is to teach children their subjects so they can pass and get into college one day. 

However, children who have behavioral issues need a specialized school that has specific programs and mentors who can assist them. It can be difficult for parents to find the right school based on their teenagers’ needs. 

Every troubled teen is different. Some will exhibit destructive behavior while others may have substance abuse disorders. In this post, we explain what a therapeutic boarding school is, how it can help your troubled teenager, and how to find the right facility for your child’s requirements. 

What is a Therapeutic Boarding School? 

A therapeutic boarding school is a residential facility where troubled teens go for support in a more structured environment. Staff and teachers have experience dealing with youth who have emotional and behavioral problems and can provide the right discipline, therapy, and programs to help them. 

These types of schools may have military programs and offer Boot Camps to rehabilitate violent or destructive teenagers. The goal is to teach children about the importance of respect, empathy, and resilience in an environment that strengthens them mentally and physically.  

When sending your child to a therapeutic school, they can experience the following benefits: 

• Teenagers are kept away from negative influences or environments that trigger their behavior. 
• They get intensive support and therapy from licensed mental health care professionals. 
• Children are taught healthy coping skills to deal with their anger, depression, or anxiety. 
• Teens are provided a structured routine so they can focus on healthy habits.  
• They are provided with a clean, safe environment where they can learn and improve their mental health.  

When is it Necessary to Send a Teen to a Therapeutic Boarding School? 

Children struggle to adjust when they become teenagers because of hormones, moving to new environments like high school, or peer pressure. These teenagers may start to show signs of the following behavioral issues. 

Poor Academic Performance 

One of the reasons parents look for alternative schools is when their children continue to have poor academic performance. The child’s grades may drop or they cut school often. On the other hand, the right school can determine whether or not your child has behavioral issues or learning disabilities. 

Internet Addiction 

Although the internet allows teenagers to learn about new topics and the world around them, internet addiction is a real concern in America. Spending hours on the internet can make teenagers lazy and it can affect their mental health. Sending your child to a therapeutic school can teach them about the importance of self-discipline and how to use their time wisely. 

Conflict or Defiance 

Therapeutic and military schools deal with teenagers who are always disobeying their parents or fighting with other people. Defiance includes refusing to complete their homework, not adhering to their curfews, and arguing with parents. These types of teens can also have violent tendencies which can be dealt with at the right school.  

Self-Destructive or Risky Behavior 

It’s normal for teenagers to be curious or experiment in their lives. However, troubled teenagers may take part in risky behaviors like shoplifting, driving while under the influence, or skipping school. 

They may also become self-destructive by taking illegal substances, injuring themselves, or purposefully getting into fights. Schools for troubled youth can fix these behavioral problems with the right programs. 

How to Find the Best School For Your Troubled Teen

Now that you know what therapeutic schools are, here are tips to find the right facility to accommodate your teenager. 

Location of the School 

Although residential schools allow children to stay on the premises, they’ll still need to visit home for holidays, weekends, and special occasions. 

You’ll also need to get to the school easily if there are emergencies. 

Make sure the school you choose isn’t too far from where you are so that it’s convenient to get there when you need to.  

Accreditation and Licensing

Therapeutic boarding schools must have accreditation and licensing to operate legally in the US. 

A trustworthy school will have its licensing and accreditation on its pamphlets or website. 

It ensures that the school is operating under specific laws and regulations and it also gives you peace of mind knowing your child is under the care of professionals. 

The Cost of the School

What are the costs involved in enrolling your teen in one of these boarding schools? Do you simply have to pay school fees or are there extra costs involved for programs and therapy sessions? Find a facility that offers packages you can afford. 

Is It For Boys and Girls? 

Most parents aren’t comfortable sending their teenagers to a co-education facility. Find out if the school you choose separates the boys from the girls. 

Some schools may be an all-boys or all-girls establishment. Do research on what their structure is like and if it’s suitable for your child. 

What Academic and Therapeutic Programs It Offers 

Therapeutic boarding schools can teach your teenager all sorts of skills while also providing them with therapy. 

For example, some schools offer wilderness programs to teach teens how to survive in the wild. Others may offer military options. 

Over and above therapy and extra programs, your child also needs to improve their academic performance. 

Ensure the school also has standard school curriculums like science, technology, and mathematics. 

Final Thoughts – The Best School For Your Teen 

A public school may not be the best choice for teenagers who have behavioral problems because they don’t have the right structure and environment for these kids. 

Contact Help Your Teen Now to find out about our academic programs as well as our treatment programs that are designed to help troubled youths. 

Our school can provide a safe and secure environment to build on your child’s strengths and ensure they can have a fulfilling life when they leave school.