For Families
Parents and Teens in Treatment
What to Expect From Residential Treatment for Teens at The Wave
Arriving at the decision to help your child by finding a residential treatment program is a decision that no parent takes lightly. At The Wave we look at residential treatment experiences for both teens and their parents, what to expect and how to cope with the big feelings that can arise once the decision is made.
During the initial admissions call, parents will often explain some of the current challenges. Other parents will seem baffled and confused by the changes that they have witnessed in their sons and daughters. The majority of parents are looking for answers to a puzzle that they have tried to solve alone. Questions that parents routinely ask are:
- Why is this happening to our child?
- What have we done wrong?
- How can you help us to get our child back?
- What are The Wave Programs like and how can they help my teen?
How to Find the Right Treatment Program for Your Teen and Family
Teenagers and young people need treatment that is specifically designed for them. They are not ‘little adults’, however mature and streetwise they may seem. Young people have needs that are not able to be met in general treatment programs. Finding a program that meets the needs of your teenager and family is one of the most important decisions that you can make.
Research shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is as important as any modality or treatment type. The relationship that you are able to foster with your treatment team will be invaluable as you work together on the sometimes-lengthy recovery journey.
The Teenage Brain: Neuroscience for Parents
Neuroscience gives us a small window into the internal structures and development of the brain in teens and young adults. Genetics, environmental and social factors, parenting, trauma, mental and physical health all have an impact on the formation and development of brain. These changes and developments can shape the way in which teenagers are able to navigate the period of adolescence and emerging adulthood.
Teenagers and young adults experience rapid changes in their bodies, thinking, feeling and experiences. The brain continues to change throughout the period of adolescence (the bridge between childhood and adulthood). Treatment during this time is incredibly beneficial and has demonstrated increased positive outcomes and long-term prognosis.
The brain does not change all at once. Changes spans several years. Complex processes – such as inhibition and impulse control, planning for the future and understanding others – continue to change throughout the late teens and into the mid-late 20s.
Additional Reading:
Neurobiology of the Adolescent Brain and Behavior. BJ Casey, PhD & Rebecca M. Jones, MS. The full article can be accessed here.
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Dubia, UAE +971 4 383 5401
