How Does Intensive Outpatient Therapy Benefit Teenagers?
If you have a teenager who might benefit from a therapy program, you may have been recommended an intensive outpatient program. These programs are extremely beneficial for teenagers and other young people, and there is a good reason for this.
Want to know more about the benefits of intensive outpatient therapy programs? Here are a few you should know about.
Individual Therapy
Many young people benefit from one-on-one therapy with professionals. It is beneficial to attend regular sessions during outpatient therapy to build coping skills and to build other life skills that promote healthy attitudes and behaviors.
Mental Health Education
It is through an outpatient treatment program that young people may learn more about co-occurring disorders that may contribute to other issues, like addiction or substance abuse. Often, these include mood disorders and personality disorders that may also benefit from treatment.
Self-Esteem and Confidence
For many young people, building self-esteem will be a crucial part of therapy. Often, outpatient programs involve the use of exercise, time spent outdoors, and music therapy to instill confidence.
Part of this process also involves building life skills. Teenagers may benefit from learning how to manage their emotions or how to communicate effectively with others. It can also be beneficial to put oneself into positions to put these skills to practice.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is an important part of development for those who have concerns about mental health. Outpatient therapists may focus on helping teenagers build healthy relationships with their parents and others in the family. Therapy can help teens look for support in those who care about them.
A Variety of Treatment Options
When your teen chooses to attend outpatient therapy, they will have access to a variety of therapy techniques, all of which are supported by evidence and are administered by qualified practitioners.
Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. EMDR is also a great way to approach trauma for many clients. The goal for therapy will be to address issues head-on and to prevent pushing trauma to the wayside. Therapists try to address issues as early on as possible.
Meet With a Professional Counselor for More Information
If you are unsure if intensive outpatient therapy would benefit a young person in your life, it is helpful to discuss your options with a professional. You might even consider a trial period of a program to ensure it offers the benefits you want.