Admissions
We currently contract with most major insurance companies and school districts in our region and beyond. Single case agreements can be arranged with other payers.
Overview
The Center provides intensive residential treatment to children and teens ages 6-18 who are experiencing significant mental, emotional and/or behavioral health challenges.
The Residential program is structured for youth whose needs and safety concerns require a 24-hour treatment environment.
Located on the Center’s 12-acre campus in beautiful San Diego, the residential treatment program provides a safe and inclusive environment focused on comprehensive and individualized services determined by our knowledgeable team and in partnership with family and caregivers.
Residential Program Videos
Residential Cottage Tour
Youth We Serve
Children and teens are referred to us to address areas of social development, emotional regulation, behavior management, grief, loss, and attachment. We provide services to youth who may be experiencing the following challenges:
- Anxiety and depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychosis
- Impulsivity
- Trauma and severe stress
- Self-harm behavior
- Substance use
- Behavior problems
- School performance or attendance problems
- History of physical or sexual abuse
- Neglect
- Poor self-esteem
Services
Each youth admitted into our program receives a comprehensive evaluation by our on-site clinical team. Teens 15-years and older additionally receive a proprietary comprehensive transition needs assessment to support their individualized plan into adulthood. Our residential cottages are assigned by age and therapeutic needs, and by gender identity in our teen cottage.
- Assessment services
- Counseling services & therapeutic activities
- On-site WASC accredited K-12 nonpublic school
- Transition to adulthood services & life skills
- Community engagement
- Enrichment activities
A Team of Experts
Our caring, multidisciplinary team includes bilingual and trauma-informed members. We have a comprehensive, professional training program for staff on evidence-based mental and behavioral health for children, teens, and families. Additionally we are a year-round training facility for undergraduate, Master's, and Doctoral graduate students in psychology, counseling, special education, and social work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parents/caregivers or professionals in mental health and education are welcome to make referrals. Referral information should be sent directly to our Intake team for review. Our intake coordinators will review information and contact parents/caregivers and the referral source to gather additional information to determine eligibility for our program.
Length of stay is based on the treatment needs of the youth and their funding source. We offer short term treatment options for families who want to use their health insurance benefits as well as longer term options.
We accept children between six and 18 years old. The Center provides services to both boys and girls, as well as youth who identify as transgender and non-binary.
Parents/caregivers are encouraged to contact their child on a daily basis by telephone. Families are encouraged to visit their child in person on a weekly basis. Families are also encouraged to come in person for family therapy sessions whenever possible.
We have a non-public school on our campus called the San Diego Center for Children Academy. Youth are eligible for this school option based on their funding and their educational needs.
The following services are available and will be provided based upon the Individualized treatment plan:
- Psychological assessment services
- Psychiatric services and psycho-pharmacological management
- Medication administration
- Individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy
- Comprehensive diagnostic services
- Case management
- Therapeutic recreation, individual and group, with a focus on community integration
- Art/Activities therapy
- Social skills development/Skills Streaming
- Crisis Intervention, including one to one, when indicated
- Twenty-four (24) hour a day emergency and back-up services by clinical and administrative personnel
Mental health services are provided by Master’s level clinicians. Each client is assigned to a clinician who conducts weekly individual therapy and family therapy. Group therapy is also provided on a daily basis. Medication management is provided by program Psychiatrists. Any medical needs will be attended by our Nursing Department.
Prior to admission, our intake team will provide families with a packing list. Youth are also encouraged to bring a comfort item for their bedroom. Families can also choose to bring their child’s own pillow and blanket.
Insurance Providers
In Network With:
Other Insurance Companies we have relationships with:
Insurance Providers
In Network With:
Other Insurance Companies we have relationships with:
Contact our Residential Treatment Program
Our friendly and caring staff are here to answer any questions and assist you getting the best support for your child and family.
Se habla español, si necesita ayuda para su hijo(a) o tiene preguntas.
Phone
Address
Main Campus:
3002 Armstrong Street
San Diego, CA 92111