Young Adult Treatment: a Checklist
With the recent proliferation of young adult treatment options, it can extremely difficult to navigate your options. Following is a list of items to look for in a young adult treatment program to help you identify a quality solution for your young adult.
| FEATURE | WHY | FULSHEAR | TYPICAL RTC |
| Single Gender | The research is clear: single-gender treatment is faster and more effective than co-ed treatment—especially for young women who struggle with trauma, eating disorders, or sexual issues. | Yes | No |
| Treatment First | Starting with a robust treatment experience gives young adults the skills, healing, and confidence necessary for experiential, life skills training. | Yes | No |
| Experiential Learning | Experiencing real-world employment, college, and independent living along with 24/7 support is the most effective way to build confidence and learn the skills necessary for autonomy. | Yes | No |
| Individualized Duration | Different young adults have different treatment needs. A residential treatment program should adjust its therapeutic approach and program length accordingly. | Yes | No |
| Holistic | Young adults need more than academics, vocational training, and therapy to succeed. They must learn to integrate healthy recreation, healthy diet, spiritual engagement, and exercise to achieve long-term wellness and success. | Yes | Limited |
| Qualified Staff | A quality residential treatment center for young adults should have a staff that includes: a psychiatrist (MD), a registered nurse, master’s level therapists, licensed clinical supervisors, A Ph.D. level psychologist, a dietitian, a recreational therapist, certified teachers, and certified staff for all special programming (e.g. certified equine therapist). | Yes | Varies |