2nd Generation Residential Treatment Centers

Designed for adolescents with more severe emotional issues who present with a good deal of clinical complexity, 2nd Generation residential treatment centers (RTCs) are highly structured programs usually (but not always) in secured or locked facilities. RTCs focus to varying degrees on therapeutic support, but often have a traditional medical component, with medication management available on site.

Because they provide medical care, portions of their costs are sometimes covered by health insurance. More recently, long-term treatment centers that are based in large home-like settings have become a trend. These programs can deal with a clinically complex dually-diagnosed adolescent, without a pathologizing or institutional feel.

Length of stay is typically six months to one year.