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Adolescent Programs

Adolescence is the time of life when formative years seem forgotten, adulthood is not yet attainable, and family is in critical review.  The adolescent is attempting to become a person whose identity is still undefined.  He, or she, searches for answers that are yet to be found.

The teenage years are a crucial period of development.  While some emotional upheaval and discord are natural during this time, others, such as disruption of schooling, alcohol and/or drug abuse, or continual family conflict, become serious behavioral problems.  In order to be able to live in harmony with family and society, teenagers need to focus on their positive development.  At Fairwinds, the Adolescent Programs do exactly that: while at the same time, breaking the pattern of destructive behavior.

The Adolescent Programs at Fairwinds utilize a comprehensive program structure. They incorporate an assessment of family history and current family dynamics with a psychiatric evaluation by the attending psychiatrist. Developmental, educational, social and peer issues are also part of the evaluation and treatment program. After a thorough diagnostic assessment is completed, an individualized treatment plan for the patient is developed.

Residential/Impatient Treatment

Residential/Impatient treatment is recommended when an adolescent encounters difficulties with family conflict, emotional distress, substance abuse, and/or eating disorders, and cannot be managed in the home.

The Residential/Inpatient Program offers comprehensive treatment for ages 10 through 17, in a safe, secure and caring environment.

Intensive Day Treatment

The Intensive Day Treatment Program provides an alternative level of care extending beyond what can be provided in a typical outpatient setting, but short of residential/inpatient round-the-clock care.

Intensive Day treatment consists of eight hours of structured programming at Fairwinds.  The adolescent attends school at Fairwinds and receives individualized treatment for problems difficult to manage at home.

Supportive Family Role

Both the Residential/Inpatient and the Intensive Day Treatment Programs emphasize a patient's functioning within the family unit.  Families are asked to actively participate in family therapy, Parent Support Groups, and Multi-Family Groups.

The Adolescent Program is a highly structured, comprehensive psychiatric and substance abuse treatment program including:

Each adolescent in treatment has an attending psychiatrist or clinical psychologist who coordinates the treatment team.  A primary therapist works intensively with the adolescent and the family.  Multi-family and parent support groups, meeting each week, are designed to offer information and education to all family members, as well as an arena for group discussions and support.

On-site School

Fairwinds has an on-site certified Pinellas County school offering secondary school credits and GED preparatory classes.  All Academic subjects are taught in a tutorial program with no loss of days or credits.  Individualized instruction by state certified teachers ensures that the adolescent gains academic confidence.

When a hospital is not the answer.