Parents often ask, "What is available if outpatient treatment or a partial hospitalization program is not working, and my child/adolescent cannot live at home for a time?"

The San Diego Center for Children’s Residential Treatment Programs enables your child or adolescent to live away from home in a setting that provides around-the-clock supervision, and therapeutic treatment.
In our residential program, your child or adolescent, as well as you and your family members, when indicated, participate in individual, group, and/or family therapy. Basic health and nursing needs are coordinated by the Center’s nursing staff. Psychiatric and medication monitoring is available if applicable to your child’s / adolescent’s needs.

Your child/adolescent will also participate in a variety of therapeutic activities. These activities may include recreation therapy (art, cooking, etc.), sports groups (running team, basketball team, golf, etc.), performing arts programs (music groups, drumming), and other community-based activities (YMCA swimming).

The Center’s residential programs develop and foster a culture of positive behavioral supports, based on positive reinforcement, praise, and skill building. One such program is called BEST, and it uses the principles of safety, respect, and responsibility to create a safe and nurturing learning environment.

How to Refer a Child or Adolescent to Residential Treatment at the San Diego Center for Children.
You may place your own child or adolescent directly, with a psychiatrist’s referral, for on a fee-for-service basis.

If you cannot afford private residential treatment for your child, you will need to turn to one of the public service systems (mental health or the School District) for help. Most of our children and adolescents in residential care are referred from the county mental health system. Occasionally, the San Diego Public School District will pay for residential treatment, but only if it is clear that the placement is necessary for the child or adolescent to benefit from his or her special education program.