Teen Residential Treatment For San Diego, California Residents
Is your teen suffering from mental health or substance abuse challenges in San Diego? And do you feel stuck, not knowing how to help them? At Key Healthcare (licensed by DHCS), we understand the challenges parents face in this situation. That’s why we are here to help your teen with our 45-60 days residential treatment program. Our experienced therapists create personalized treatment plans that consider every aspect of teens’ conditions without judgment.
During our program, we follow a dual-diagnosis treatment approach. This addresses both co-occurring mental health and substance use issues together. Our therapies, which we incorporate, include evidence-based practices. For instance, EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Exposure Therapy. You see, we are keen to provide your teen with treatment that fosters lasting recovery.
However, what sets us apart from other residential programs? It’s the trust we have gained from top healthcare professionals in San Diego. Because we not only focus on therapeutic care but also ensure teens don’t fall behind academically. Through Mission Academy School, we offer a complete curriculum and credit recovery to keep their education on track.
We also accept various insurance plans to make treatment accessible. To further support your teen after our program, we have compiled a list of resources to make the transition smooth from structured care to normal life.
- Teen Therapists & Counselors in San Diego, CA
- Emergency Response & Hotlines Information for Teens in San Diego, CA
- Support Groups for Teens in San Diego, CA
- Youth Development Programs for Teens in San Diego, CA
- Government Initiatives for San Diego Teens
- Parks and Recreation Centers in San Diego, CA
- High School Counseling Information for Teens in San Diego, CA
- Fitness Options for Teens in San Diego, CA
Note: We aren’t affiliated with these resources.
Our Accreditations and Affiliations






Our Accreditations and Affiliations
Evidence-Based Residential Therapy for San Diego Adolescents
San Diego’s statistics show a clear need for evidence-based residential treatment for teens. Well, what are the those?
According to 2022 Juvenile Arrestee Drug Use in the San Diego Region early all juveniles who were questioned have tried at least one illicit substance in San Diego. In 2022, 96% of youth reported using an illegal drug, and 59% had tried marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco.
Now, these statistics may lead you to question the patterns of substance use among these youth.
You see, in past years, marijuana (93%) and alcohol (86%) were the most commonly tried substances, followed by tobacco (59%). Additionally, 81% of the youth reported binge drinking.

But wait, there’s more. According to a news article published in UCLA Health, San Diego County also faced a grave issue between 2020-2022, with 36 deaths (of teens) from counterfeit tablets overdoses.
These circumstances make it clear why we urgently need effective treatment options for our teens. And in that effective, we are talking about residential treatment. Key Healthcare’s residential treatment centers for teens are addressing this crisis.
We provide integrated, evidence-based care with a lodestar on building supportive peer communities. With one aim to help teens recover and thrive.
Up to 100% of the Costs Covered by Insurance
Insurances We Accept
We may accept additional California insurance plans








What Conditions Can Our Residential Program for San Diego Adolescents Treat?
Our teen residential program provides thorough and compassionate care for teens dealing with substance abuse, behavioral health issues, and mental health struggles. Apart from this, we also treat other conditions. Such as:
Comprehensive Teen Mental Health Treatment
Anxiety Treatment | Depression Treatment |
LGBTQ+ Mental Health Treatment | Low Self-Esteem Treatment |
School Refusal Treatment | Self-Harm Treatment |
Social Anxiety Treatment | Suicide Ideation Treatment |
Trauma/PTSD Treatment | Mood Swings & Anger Treatment |
Psychotic Disorders Treatment | ADHD/Impulse Control Treatment |
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder Treatment |
Comprehensive Care for Overcoming Teen Substance Abuse and Building a Brighter Future
Comprehensive Teen Mental Health Treatment
Anxiety Treatment | Depression Treatment |
LGBTQ+ Mental Health Treatment | Low Self-Esteem Treatment |
School Refusal Treatment | Self-Harm Treatment |
Social Anxiety Treatment | Suicide Ideation Treatment |
Trauma/PTSD Treatment | Mood Swings & Anger Treatment |
Psychotic Disorders Treatment | ADHD/Impulse Control Treatment |
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder Treatment |
Comprehensive Care for Overcoming Teen Substance Abuse and Building a Brighter Future
For families and parents living in Alpine, Bonita, Bonsall, Borrego Springs, Bostonia, Boulevard, Camp Pendleton Mainside, Camp Pendleton South, Campo, Carlsbad, Casa de Oro-Mount Helix, Chula Vista, Coronado, Crest, Del Dios, Del Mar, Descanso, El Cajon, Elfin Forest, Encinitas, Escondido, Eucalyptus Hills, Fallbrook, Granite Hills, Harbison Canyon, Harmony Grove, Hidden Meadows, Imperial Beach, Jacumba Hot Springs, Jamul, Julian, La Mesa, La Presa, Lake San Marcos, Lakeside, Lemon Grove, Mount Laguna, National City, Oceanside, Pala, Pine Valley, Potrero, Poway, Rainbow, Ramona, Rancho San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego, San Diego Country Estates, San Marcos, San Pasqual, Santee, Solana Beach, Spring Valley, Valley Center, Vista, Winter Gardens, or anywhere nearby, please reach out if you’re witnessing your teen going through these challenging periods. Our expert team is ready to guide your teen back to health with care and understanding during their recovery journey. We know how important it is for families to feel supported, and we’re here for you every step of the way.
Teen Residential Treatment for San Diego, California
What to Expect During Our San Diego Teen Residential Treatment Program
As a parent, knowing what to expect during a teen residential treatment program can help ease your apprehension and make it easier to support your teen through the same feelings. But how?
- It all starts with us providing you with clear details about the program, treatment philosophies, and admission process.
- After the initial orientation, we move toward the assessment and pre-admission stage.
- Here, we thoroughly evaluate your teen’s medical history and cultural background. We also conduct psychological tests to understand their mental health and behavior.
- As a parent, you are a key part of this process, sharing insights about your teen’s struggles.
- The results of this assessment will help us create the best treatment plan for your teen.
- Once your teen is accepted, the admission process begins. Here, we will guide you through all the steps, including paperwork, finances, and logistics.
- Our San Diego teen residential treatment California program will be tailored to meet your teen’s specific needs, addressing the particular condition they are being treated for, whether mental illness or substance use disorders.
However, during their stay with us, here’s a list of common therapies your teen will participate in.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Teens will have an individual therapy session with a skilled counselor every week. During these individual therapy sessions, they'll be able to analyze their emotions, gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors, and how they can break their negative thinking pattern.
GROUP THERAPY
Group therapy is a core component of our treatment program. During these group therapy sessions, teens can share their experiences and learn from their peers in a safe and supportive environment.
HOLISTIC AND RECREATION THERAPIES
We don't just rely on conventional treatment. We take it a step further by offering a mix of holistic and experiential therapies such as yoga, art therapy, surf therapy, hiking, music therapy, and equine-assisted therapy. These activities are specially designed to help teens manage their stress, find a sense of self, build confidence, and uncover new passions.
NUTRITION AND EXERCISE
We integrate the essentials of nutrition and physical activity into each day. With daily access to 3 nutritional meals, healthy snacks, and exercise resources, we ensure every aspect of a teen's health is nurtured. It's about empowering them to take steps toward lasting wellness.
FAMILY CENTERED TREATMENT
The entire family plays a crucial role in our residential treatment program. Our experienced therapists help families address communication issues between their teens, build healthy boundaries, and learn new ways to cope. These steps are crucial in supporting their teen's long-term recovery.
ACADEMIC SUPPORT
We know how challenging it can be for teens to keep up with academics while they're in our program. That's why, through Mission Academy School, we offer curriculum and credit recovery so that no schoolwork progress is lost. Our caring staff is there to help support your child's studies while they're healing.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Teens will have an individual therapy session with a skilled counselor every week. During these individual therapy sessions, they'll be able to analyze their emotions, gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors, and how they can break their negative thinking pattern.
GROUP THERAPY
Group therapy is a core component of our treatment program. During these group therapy sessions, teens can share their experiences and learn from their peers in a safe and supportive environment.
HOLISTIC AND RECREATION THERAPIES
We don't just rely on conventional treatment. We take it a step further by offering a mix of holistic and experiential therapies such as yoga, art therapy, surf therapy, hiking, music therapy, and equine-assisted therapy. These activities are specially designed to help teens manage their stress, find a sense of self, build confidence, and uncover new passions.
NUTRITION AND EXERCISE
We integrate the essentials of nutrition and physical activity into each day. With daily access to 3 nutritional meals, healthy snacks, and exercise resources, we ensure every aspect of a teen's health is nurtured. It's about empowering them to take steps toward lasting wellness.
FAMILY CENTERED TREATMENT
The entire family plays a crucial role in our residential treatment program. Our experienced therapists help families address communication issues between their teens, build healthy boundaries, and learn new ways to cope. These steps are crucial in supporting their teen's long-term recovery.
ACADEMIC SUPPORT
We know how challenging it can be for teens to keep up with academics while they're in our program. That's why, through Mission Academy School, we offer curriculum and credit recovery so that no schoolwork progress is lost. Our caring staff is there to help support your child's studies while they're healing.
Meet the Team
We believe that the effectiveness of the treatment program relies heavily on the bond between the teen and their therapist, rather than solely on the clinical modalities and various therapeutic techniques employed. That is why our staff members are relatable, resourceful and fearless when it comes to finding creative solutions for each client.
Leadership Team
Clinical & Medical Team
Leadership
Clinical & Medical
San Diego Teen Therapists & Counselors
Our program is built upon evidence-based therapies. Therapeutic modalities like EMDR, DBT, Exposure Therapy, and CBT allow our therapists to treat both mental health issues and substance use disorders in teens effectively.
However, to help you further with local support both before and after your teen’s residential treatment. We’ve created a list of licensed therapists in San Diego. These professionals, who hold LCSW and LMFT credentials, are actively practicing and are easy to reach. This resource ensures your teen has access to qualified local help whenever needed.
San Diego Teen Therapist/Counselor | License & Verification | Address |
---|---|---|
WUTZKE, TRACY M. | License Number: 17239 | 9888 Carroll Centre Rd Ste 216 SAN DIEGO CA 92126-4515 SAN DIEGO county |
PINN, MELISSA AMY | License Number: 46333 | 5252 Balboa Ave #304 SAN DIEGO CA 92117-6906 SAN DIEGO county |
STROUT, ELIZABETH CATHERINE | License Number: 71693 | 11230 Sorrento Valley Rd Suite 220 SAN DIEGO CA 92121-1332 SAN DIEGO county |
Note: We aren’t affiliated with these therapists. But all of them are licensed by the California Board of Psychology and California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS), ensuring your teen gets top-notch medical care close to home.
We’re Here for San Diego Families
Resources and Support San Diego, CA
Emergency Response/Hotlines Information for San Diego Adolescents
In moments of crisis, having immediate access to the right hotlines can make a difference in your teen’s mental health issues. At Key Healthcare, we specialize in providing long-term residential care for teens. But we also believe that parents should be prepared for every stage of their teen’s mental health and substance abuse journey.
That’s why we’ve compiled this list of emergency hotlines and services in San Diego so that families and parents can have the resources to respond swiftly and effectively. But before you move forward, here are some guidelines on what to do if your teen is in immediate danger:
- When your teen is caught in the grip of an overdose or a mental health crisis, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But remember, your calm presence and quick thinking can make a real difference.
- In times like these, every second counts. Don’t hesitate to call 911 if you suspect an overdose or if the symptoms of their mental health disorders are getting worse. Once you call, the police dispatcher answers your call and will transfer your call to the Fire Department or Paramedics, if required.
- Your quick action could be the difference between your teen’s life and death.
The San Diego Access & Crisis Line (ACL) is a free and confidential resource offering 24/7 support for teens in crisis. It provides expert assistance for crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and teens needing substance use and mental health services.
- Phone Support: Call 1-888-724-7240 (available 24/7).
- Live Chat: Accessible Monday to Friday, 4 PM to 10 PM.
- Languages: Support is available in over 200 languages for broad accessibility.
- Website:https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/
- The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a simple, 3-digit number providing immediate support for teens experiencing mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, or substance use challenges.
- This free and confidential service offers quick, professional guidance when it’s needed most.
- Phone Support: Call or text 988 for 24/7 assistance.
- Website:https://988lifeline.org/
- Teen Line is a safe, anonymous, and confidential place for teens to get help for their mental health struggles. Teens can access personal peer-to-peer support from highly trained teens.
- These peer supporters are specially trained and always supervised by adult mental health experts.
- CALL 800-852-8336 Nationwide (6 PM - 10 PM PST) Or TEXT TEEN to 839863 (6 PM - 9 PM PST)
- Website:https://www.teenline.org/
- For over 34 years, the California Youth Crisis Line has been a trusted support system for teens throughout California, including San Diego.
- They provide assistance in multiple languages and offer a safe, compassionate space to address concerns like suicide, depression, bullying, trauma, identity struggles, and health challenges. And the best part is they are focused on listening with empathy rather than giving advice.
- Phone Support: 1-800-843-5200.
- Website:https://calyouth.org/cycl/
Support Groups for San Diego Adolescents
Did you know that 30% to 65% of teens relapse during their early recovery phase after finishing a residential program? This is why your teen needs a strong support system to help them stay committed to sobriety and build a sense of responsibility.
And fortunately, support groups in San Diego provide exactly that. These groups are a great way to help your teen learn practical skills to handle stress. Here, they can join workshops to boost confidence and find ways to cope with grief.
They also connect with peers who face similar struggles. These shared experiences foster trust and motivation, making a recovery feel achievable. And to help you further, we have compiled a list of support groups in San Diego.
- UPAC supports youth aged 5 to 20 who are facing difficulties at school, at home, or in the community. These challenges often take a toll on their mental well-being.
- That's why, as a team, they work with both youth and their caregivers. The aim is to focus on recognizing each teen's unique strengths while addressing the specific needs of the individual and their family.
- Website:https://www.upacsd.com/programs/cmh/
- Many are unaware of how often children experience grief. In California, 1 in 17 children will lose a parent or sibling before turning 18. Without the right support (grief support group), these children are at a greater risk of facing issues like problems in school, substance abuse, depression, and anxiety disorders.
- That’s why the Children’s Bereavement Program is the only one of its kind in San Diego County. Their services are free and available to all grieving children.
- Website:https://elizabethhospice.org/grief-support/children/
- NAMI San Diego offers support groups for teens who are dealing with significant mental illnesses. The groups are led by trained specialists who have faced similar challenges and understand what your teen is going through.
- Website:https://namisandiego.org/services/support-groups/
Youth Development Programs for San Diego Adolescents
Supporting San Diego teens through their challenges of mental health and substance abuse requires more than just care. It demands a thoughtful, well-rounded approach. And that’s why we walk with them every step of the way. But how do we achieve this? By nurturing their confidence, offering mentorship, and equipping them with crucial skills. These skills include social skills, effective communication, daily life skills, problem-solving strategies, and self-advocacy.
Also, we enable teens to stand up for themselves and pursue their career aspirations. This not only helps them manage their impulsive behaviors. But also take responsibility and set meaningful, achievable goals.
And to ensure they continue to progress after our program, we’ve compiled a list of youth programs in San Diego. These programs help teens apply the skills they’ve learned. Whether it’s making the right choices or exploring new career opportunities, they ensure that the learnings made during our therapy become part of their routine, not something left behind.
Say San Diego
- SAY San Diego recognizes that no single issue defines a child or family. Instead, their programs and partnerships address the broader needs of individuals and communities.
- By working with schools, local organizations, and government agencies, SAY helps drive positive change across San Diego. Their whole-person approach uplifts families, enriches youth, and unites communities for a stronger, healthier future.
- Website:https://www.saysandiego.org/view-by-program/youth-development/
Youth and Young Adult Development YMCA
- Youth and Family Services in San Diego is here to make a real difference in the lives of youth. Why? Because they say the future of our community depends on them. They focus on making sure each teen has what they need to succeed.
- Whether it’s workforce development to build careers, learning relational skills for better connections, internships for practical experience, or leadership programs to guide their path forward, they ensure youth are ready for what’s next.
- Website:https://www.ymcasd.org/community-support/ymca-youth-and-family-services/youth-and-young-adult-development
Star Pal United for Youth
- The purpose of Star Pal youth programs in San Diego is to prevent adolescents from making poor choices in the community that can lead to incarceration and provide mentoring to build self-confidence and personal awareness.
- Furthermore, if you want to learn more about the details of these programs? Head over to their youth programs section for all the details.
- Website:https://www.starpal.org/
Youth Entrepreneurship Employment Program (YEEP)
- You know what? YEEP in San Diego has an innovative approach for teens when it comes to entrepreneurship training and teaching leadership skills. To know more, visit their website.
- Website:https://www.harmoniumsd.org/youth-development-programs
Government Initiatives for San Diego Adolescents
Legler Benbough Teen IDEA Lab
- IDEA offers advanced technology and training programs for teens ages 12 to 18. IDEA stands for Innovation and Digital Expression Activity.
- It’s more than just a lab; it’s a starting point where teens can learn the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow.
- It’s a place where they can grow, explore, and prepare for a bright future in this 21st-century digital world.
- Website:https://www.sandiego.gov/public-library/idea/mx
Recreation, Reading Programs, and Community Centers for Teens In San Diego, CA
San Diego has fertile land for 63 different recreation centers, parks, and programs, which include aquatic activities, community centers, and many more, making it an ideal spot for teenagers facing challenges such as stress, isolation, SUD, monotony, and symptoms of underlying mental health challenges that may potentially contribute to negative behaviors.
The center’s comfortable environment provides a welcoming space for teens to connect with their peers, receive support, and concentrate on their recovery rather than being in a sterile clinic. Teens have numerous opportunities to explore and challenge themselves in this field, fostering a sense of happiness and pride without resorting to substance abuse.
Besides this, the San Diego Public Library also plays a crucial role in supporting teenagers. They also inspire teenagers through narratives of individuals who have overcome addiction, fostering a sense of community where individuals can offer support and encouragement to one another.
High School Counseling Resources for San Diego Adolescents
Emotional or behavioral struggles can sometimes hold teens back in their academics. And that’s where high school counselors are there to help. With training and experience, they work alongside teens (to address their issues) while receiving continuous feedback from parents, teachers, and peers. Their support is invaluable for you and your teen, both before and after an RTC program.
Below, you will find a list of high schools, along with their counseling information. We strongly suggest you keep up with school counseling sessions and activities conducted by the teen’s school.
Note: The schools mentioned are solely for informational purposes. Key Healthcare is not affiliated with them. In curating the list of schools, we have considered test scores, equity, feedback from parents, and the school curricula factors.
School | Counseling Details |
---|---|
Clairemont High School | Counseling Information |
Crawford High School | Counseling Information |
Canyon Hills High School | Counseling Information |
Note: The schools mentioned are solely for informational purposes. Key Healthcare is not affiliated with them. In curating the list of schools, we have considered test scores, equity, feedback from parents, and the school curricula factors.
Find Your Teenager's Fitness Flow in San Diego, CA
Yoga therapy is one of the key approaches we use in our program. It helps reduce anxiety, manage stress, and promote calm, all of which are critical during the healing process. Yoga combines breathing exercises with focused attention to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. This helps teens feel more at ease and grounded.
They learn to overcome negative thought patterns and self-doubt by staying in the present moment. Over time, this practice lowers the chance of relapse and encourages sustainable recovery. But recovery doesn’t end when a teen leaves our program.
Staying active plays an important role in maintaining their progress. Engaging in yoga therapy or practicing martial arts, gymming, and dancing helps teens preserve the positive habits they’ve built in our residential care.
These activities bring balance, stability, and purpose to teens’ lives. To help your teen further, we’ve included information about a fitness center in San Diego.
Note: (All of these centers are paid).
Fitness Spot | Official Website |
---|---|
North Park Fitness | https://northparkfitness.com/ |
Church ATA Martial Arts | https://churchsmartialarts.com/ |
UTC Super-Sport Gym | https://www.24hourfitness.com/gyms/san-diego-ca/utc-super-sport |
Culture Shock San Diego | https://cultureshocksandiego.org/ |
Note: (All of these centers are paid).
What is Teen Residential Treatment?
The Key Healthcare Teen Residential Treatment program is a form of long-term mental health care for San Diego adolescents aged 13 to 17. This comprehensive treatment typically occurs in a specialized residential facility where teens are provided 24/7 care and support. We create specialized teen residential treatment programs for each individual to help teens conquer their issues and reach their full potential to live healthy, productive lives.
MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT
Our programs help treat a variety of adolescent mental health conditions.
AVAILABLE THERAPIES
We utilize various evidence-based therapies to treat your teen’s condition.
VERIFY YOUR INSURANCE
We accept most private health insurance plans.
San Diego, California Teen Residential Treatment FAQs
-
How do San Diego residential treatment centers for teens involve family members in the treatment process?
- At Key Healthcare, we understand the importance of family involvement in teen residential treatment. We do everything possible to keep families connected through comprehensive approaches such as family therapy, parent education programs, ongoing support, and support groups- all working together to establish an encouraging, supportive, and nurturing environment for successful recovery.
-
What type of support does Key Healthcare provide for families dealing with the impact of their teen's struggles?
- Key Healthcare is dedicated to helping families through the trying times of teenage struggles. Our team provides an array of resources, such as family therapy and parent education programs, for greater comprehension and consistent communication about progress updates, and we can recommend support groups that promote a sense of connectivity with others in similar circumstances. We strive to empower parents by equipping them with effective strategies so they can foster their teen's recovery path while creating nurturing home environments.
-
What kind of aftercare support and resources are available for San Diego teens who have completed the Key Healthcare teen residential treatment program?
- At Key Healthcare, we recognize that the journey to recovery is not complete with the mere completion of a residential treatment program. That's why our Teen Extended Care program provides a sober living environment, giving adolescents the resources to help them transition back home to San Diego as smoothly as possible. Family counseling services and referrals are often made to bridge teens toward local community resources to aid sustained progress on the path toward solace.
-
What is the average cost of a residential treatment program for teens living in San Diego, and are there any financial assistance options available?
- The average cost of a residential treatment program for San Diego teens coming to Key Healthcare varies depending on factors such as program duration, services provided, and several additional factors. Financial assistance options, including insurance coverage, scholarships, and payment plans, may be available to help families manage the cost of treatment. Verify your insurance here.
-
What is the admissions process for enrolling my teen into Key Healthcare's residential treatment center?
- Contact us to confidentially speak with one of our admissions directors or learn more about our admissions process here. If we're not the right fit, we can connect you to several highly vetted resources in San Diego, California.
-
What types of insurance does Key Healthcare accept for residential treatment for teens living in San Diego, California?
- We accept most PPO insurance plans and a wide range of insurance plans from all over the USA for Teen Residential Treatment: Humana One, Cigna, Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross BlueShield, Health Net, and Value Options. You can verify your insurance here.
-
Are there specialized treatment programs for 15 year old boys with specific issues like behavioral disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, or mental health concerns?
- Yes, we create individual treatment programs for every individual. So, if your son is 15 years old and attending our residential treatment program, he'll have an individualized treatment program created specifically for him and his needs.
-
Will the program provide education and academic support for 17 year old boys during their stay?
- Yes, for 17 year old boys or any age group/gender, we have academic support throughout the adolescent's stay.
-
How long is the average length of stay for a San Diego, California 14 year old girl in residential treatment?
- Age doesn't typically play a role in the length of stay. So, if your daughter is 14 years old, the average stay for teen girls/teen boys / gender-neutral teens is 45-60 days. It all depends on the needs and program of the specific adolescent.
-
How are the needs of LGBTQ+ 14 year olds addressed in a teen residential treatment program?
- Just like any other age group or gender, we have specialized programs individually created for our LGBTW adolescent clients that cater specifically to their needs.
-
What is the admission process like for 16 year old girls in residential treatment?
- The admission process for a 16 year old girl is the same for a 16 year old boy or a 16 year old LGBTQ+ adolescent. You can read more about our admissions process here.
-
My teen is out of control. Where can I send my out-of-control teen?
- If your teenager is out of control or is doing self-harm, contact us to learn about our residential treatment for teens.