We embrace a trauma-informed model of care via the University of Southern California's Integrated Treatment of Complex Trauma (ITCT). Trauma-informed means that we take care to create an environment of safety, empowerment, trust and respect.
We recognize that many children and young adults in our care often have histories of multiple, complex, and chronic trauma. Trauma-informed care means delivering evidence-based treatment within an environment of healing and recovery.
We believe in a trauma-informed approach to treatment that does not seek to discover "What is wrong with you," but instead "What has happened to you." From this place of shared knowledge, true healing can begin.
Within the person's social environment, there are daily and weekly structured therapeutic activities. Group treatment is offered daily by team members, including:
- Activity therapists
- Clinicians
- Counselors
- Nurses
- Occupational therapists
- Other professionals
Individual psychotherapy and family therapy with the primary clinician occur several times each week. Targeted clinical interventions that are empirically supported and trauma informed/trauma responsive include:
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Integrated treatment of complex trauma (ITCT)
- Motivational interviewing
- Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), among others
When indicated, medication management is also available. All treatment plans are designed to address the unique needs of the individual, with specific interventions chosen to maximize results. Treatment plans are reviewed frequently and modified as often as needed to promote success.
Expressive and supportive therapies
Our recreation therapists work with each individual to introduce and encourage additional therapies that support healing and growth. Yoga, meditation, art, and music are some examples of activities that are used to complement the intense nature of individual and group psychotherapies.
Academic programs
School-aged students shouldn't have to decide between psychological health and continuing their education. At the psychiatric residential treatment facility (PRTF), all efforts are made to work with each individual's school to continue their previous course of academic study. By continuing with their Individual Education Plan (IEP) or general academic course of study, students can return to their classrooms having experienced minimal disruptions in their academic program.
Our education coordinator, special education teacher, and teacher's aide work closely with students, their schools, and families to provide the highest quality education to each student. The PRTF enjoys a dedicated computer lab and classroom space that allows students to focus on their individual academic program. The PRTF provides each student at least 5.5 hours of academic time per school day supported by the special education teacher and teacher's aide. Regular contact with the school district and involvement in IEP meetings help students stay on track with their education goals.
For our older students who may benefit from supportive school-to-career transition planning, the PRTF will work with the University of New Hampshire Institute on Disability to provide Renew Training. This program works with older students to prepare for successful independent living.