Intensive Treatment of the Adolescent and His Family

A specialized inpatient program was developed for the study, teaching, and treatment of psychiatric disorders in the adolescent. It presents a conceptual framework of function and impairment by which the adolescent is evaluated and from which his treatment goals are evolved. The philosophy of admission stresses early and clearly defined requirements for patient, family, and staff. Parents and family participate in the treatment program at several different levels, including individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and family group therapy. A self-discharge plan emphasizes the adolescent's participation in the decision.