Finding the right mental health care for young people presents unique challenges. Adolescents need specialized treatment approaches that address their developmental stage while providing effective care. Here are six Indianapolis-area facilities with outstanding youth behavioral health programs.

1. Options Behavioral Health Hospital

Options Behavioral Health runs one of Indianapolis’ most respected adolescent psychiatric programs. Their youth services help teens ages 12-18 who are fighting various mental health conditions.

What makes their adolescent program exceptional:

• Separate, secure unit specifically for youth
• Structured treatment environment with daily therapy
• Licensed teachers who help teens stay on track academically
• Family therapy sessions that build stronger family bonds
• Treatment for co-occurring substance use disorders

The typical stay at Options Behavioral Health lasts 3-7 days, focusing on crisis stabilization and developing coping skills. Their team uses evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused treatments tailored for young minds.

2. Riley Hospital for Children – Behavioral Health

As part of IU Health, Riley Hospital provides specialized psychiatric services for children and teens. Their child psychiatry team works exclusively with young patients.

Program highlights:

• Comprehensive assessment and diagnosis
• Both inpatient and outpatient options
• Care from child-specialized psychiatrists
• Integration with medical care when needed
• Academic support during treatment

3. Valle Vista Health System

Located in Greenwood, Valle Vista offers dedicated residential treatment for adolescents struggling with serious mental health and behavioral issues.

Key features:

• Longer-term residential programs
• Gender-specific treatment tracks
• On-site accredited school
• Structured daily routine
• Recreation therapy and physical activities

4. Hendricks Behavioral Hospital

This newer facility in Plainfield provides inpatient psychiatric care for adolescents ages 13-17 in a modern, therapeutic setting.

Notable aspects:

• State-of-the-art facility designed with teens in mind
• Intensive outpatient programs for teens
• Free 24/7 assessments
• Focus on family involvement
• Comprehensive discharge planning

5. Community Health Network – Youth Programs

Community Health Network offers specialized behavioral health services for children and adolescents across multiple locations.

Standout offerings:

• School-based counseling programs
• Partial hospitalization options
• Youth-focused group therapy
• Psychiatry services for medication management
• Crisis intervention services

6. Ascension St. Vincent Stress Center

St. Vincent’s adolescent behavioral programs address a wide range of mental health needs in young people.

Distinguished elements:

• Specialized assessment process for youth
• Family-centered approach to treatment
• Trauma-informed care practices
• Dedicated adolescent treatment teams
• Spiritual care integration when desired

When looking for youth behavioral health care in Indianapolis, these six facilities offer specialized programs designed to meet the unique needs of younger patients. Options Behavioral Health Hospital stands out for its dedicated adolescent unit and crisis stabilization focus, but each facility has distinctive strengths.

The right choice depends on your child’s specific needs, the severity of their condition, and your family situation. Most importantly, seek help promptly when signs of mental health struggles appear in children or teens. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and helps young people develop healthy coping skills for life.