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4 Effective Types Of Trauma Treatment Programs For Youth

Trauma can affect a person's mind and body. In the wake of trauma, kids may close themselves off or display erratic behavior. The physical effects of trauma can include poor sleep and low appetite. Conversely, people suffering from trauma may also overeat or display depressive symptoms, which can include oversleeping. If you notice your child displaying behaviors congruent with trauma, seeking help is the best thing you can do for them. These are four effective forms of trauma treatment for youth:

1. Family Therapy

Sometimes, trauma can affect a whole family. If your family was involved in an accident or violent incident, you and your children may benefit from family therapy. Family therapy will give you and your kids the opportunity to discuss your feelings and experiences with the aid of an experienced therapist. Family therapy may be more comfortable than individual therapy for very young children and those who are fearful of adults outside of their immediate family.

2. Youth Trauma Therapy

Family therapy has its place, but some kids can benefit from the privacy and safety of individual therapy. Therapists who specialize in youth trauma can help children and adolescents who display symptoms of PTSD. Therapists will evaluate each patient and use one or more therapy modalities designed to treat the symptoms and manifestations of trauma. Talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy may be combined to achieve the desired results.

3. Intensive Outpatient Trauma Programs

The symptoms of trauma can be mild or severe. Kids and teenagers who struggle with severe PTSD may display aggression and hypervigilance that can endanger themselves and others. If your child is struggling with extreme behavioral issues, an intensive treatment program may be their best hope for recovery. Intensive outpatient treatment programs allow kids to continue attending school and living with their families. Kids will attend individual and group therapy sessions after school and on the weekends. This type of frequent therapy can help kids make faster progress during counseling sessions. Parents should be ready to support their teenagers as they go through this process by being emotionally available and caring for their teenagers' practical needs.

4. Inpatient Youth Trauma Programs

Finally, some teenagers may benefit from inpatient youth trauma programs. Inpatient therapy can help teenagers who are at risk of suicide and self-harm. During an inpatient program, teens will receive psychiatric counseling, which may be combined with medication. Around-the-clock supervision will ensure that teenagers remain safe throughout their treatment.

For more information, contact a local organization that offers treatment programs, like LifeLine For Youth.


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