Our Intensive Behavioral Unit is a 16-bed secure inpatient treatment program that provides stabilization for children and adolescents ages 3 to 18 with serious behavioral concerns or developmental delays. We take a specialized approach to address the psychiatric needs of children who need this care.
Our patients may experience a serious change in mood or behaviors that have significantly interfered with their daily functioning. Common diagnoses that we treat include:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Reactive attachment disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Other mood disorders
Many of our patients have significant developmental delays and may be on the autism spectrum. They can exhibit behaviors such as severe aggression, self-injury, and property destruction.
Intensive behavior support
The program offers board-certified behavior analysts (BCBA) consults. After identifying the behaviors of concern, the BCBA tracks, organizes and interprets the behavioral data to develop recommendations for further treatment. The BCBA can also offer meetings to families to discuss behavioral interventions suggested at home completion. This parental training is crucial for families preparing for their child's return to a less restrictive environment. This support may include direct collaboration with schools, community-based providers, and state agencies.
Under the direction of a BCBA, the care team implements behavior change interventions that include the least restrictive approaches, positive behavior supports, and teaching alternative behaviors. We consider each individual and their goals when developing a child's group programming needs.
Programming
We design structured therapeutic activities to develop and maintain adaptive behaviors, coping and social skills. Our program has a higher staff-to-patient ratio than traditional psychiatric units. This ratio allows for smaller patient groupings, maximizing their individualized treatment needs.
Some of our specialized programming includes:
- Anger management
- Conflict resolution
- Effective communication
- Independent leisure skills
- Positive coping skills
- Safety planning
- Self-care
Our treatment team collaborates with the pre-hospitalization team, including the school, to identify aftercare needs early in the hospitalization.