A

ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

A mindfulness-based behavioral therapy teaches teens to accept difficult emotions while committing to value-driven actions. Example: “Our therapist uses ACT to help Jamie manage anxiety during soccer tryouts.” Related terms: CBT, DBT, mindfulness.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Neurodevelopmental condition characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Includes three subtypes: Predominantly Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive, and Combined. Example: “After ADHD testing, we implemented classroom accommodations under a 504 Plan.” Related terms: Executive dysfunction, stimulant medications, IEP.

ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder)

Neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication, with restricted/repetitive behaviors. Now subsumes Asperger’s Syndrome under DSM-5. Example: “Sensory-friendly spaces help our ASD teen manage overcrowded environments.” Related terms: Neurodivergent, stimming, social scripts.

Aversive Conditioning

Behavioral technique using unpleasant stimuli to reduce unwanted behaviors. Controversial in modern practice. Example: “The treatment center phased out aversive conditioning methods in 2022.” Related terms: Positive behavior support, ABA therapy.

B

BIP (Behavior Intervention Plan)

Customized plan to address challenging behaviors in educational settings, required under IDEA for students with disabilities. Example: “The school psychologist developed a BIP targeting Elijah’s classroom elopement.” Related terms: FBA, IEP, PBIS.

BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder)

Mental illness characterized by emotional dysregulation, unstable relationships, and identity disturbances. Diagnostic Note: Rarely diagnosed before age 18. Example: “Our DBT group teaches BPD coping skills like distress tolerance.” Related terms: Splitting, dysregulation, quiet BPD.

BTM (Brief Strategic Family Therapy)

Evidence-based intervention addressing family dynamics contributing to adolescent behavioral issues. Example: “Our BTM sessions improved communication about curfew conflicts.” Related terms: Multisystemic therapy, enmeshment, triangulation.

C

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

Gold-standard therapy identifying connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Example: “CBT helped Zoe challenge her ‘all-or-nothing’ thinking about grades.” Related terms: Cognitive distortions, exposure therapy, thought records.

Comorbid/Comorbidity

Co-occurrence of multiple diagnoses (e.g., ADHD + anxiety). Example: “The psychiatrist explained comorbidity between depression and disordered eating.” Related terms: Dual diagnosis, differential diagnosis.

CPS (Child Protective Services)

Government agency investigating child abuse/neglect reports. Example: “Our family advocate accompanied us to the CPS interview.” Related terms: Mandated reporter, safety plan, dependency court.

CTSS (Community Treatment and Support Services)

Intensive community-based mental health services. Example: “CTSS provides in-home skills training for our daughter’s ODD.” Related terms: Wraparound services, ACT team, respite care.

DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)

A skills-based therapy designed to help individuals regulate emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and tolerate distress. Commonly used for borderline personality disorder and self-harming behaviors. Example: “DBT group therapy helped our teen learn distress tolerance techniques during emotional outbursts.” Related terms: Emotion regulation, mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness.

D

DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition)

The authoritative guide published by the American Psychiatric Association for diagnosing mental disorders. Example: “The therapist referred to DSM-5 criteria to diagnose generalized anxiety disorder in our son.” Related terms: Diagnostic codes, ICD-10, clinical criteria.

Dissociation

A mental process where a person disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity. Often associated with trauma or stress. Example: “During therapy, we learned that our teen’s dissociation is a coping mechanism for past abuse.” Related terms: Depersonalization, derealization, dissociative identity disorder.

Dual Diagnosis

The co-occurrence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Example: “Our teen’s dual diagnosis of depression and alcohol abuse requires integrated treatment.” Related terms: Comorbidity, addiction recovery, harm reduction.

Dysregulation

Difficulty managing emotional responses or behaviors in an appropriate way. Often seen in conditions like ADHD or BPD. Example: “Emotional dysregulation leads to impulsive decisions during arguments with peers.” Related terms: Self-regulation, executive functioning deficits, mood instability.

E

ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy)

A medical treatment involving electrical stimulation of the brain under anesthesia to treat severe depression or bipolar disorder when other treatments fail. Example: “ECT was recommended after medication didn’t alleviate our teen’s severe depressive episodes.” Related terms: Treatment-resistant depression, mood disorders, somatic therapies.

Enmeshment

A family dynamic where boundaries between members are overly blurred, leading to dependency or lack of autonomy. Example: “Family therapy addressed enmeshment issues that contributed to our daughter’s anxiety about independence.” Related terms: Boundaries, triangulation, individuation.

Executive Functioning

Cognitive skills that help with planning, organization, impulse control, and task completion. Often impaired in ADHD or ASD. Example: “Our teen struggles with executive functioning tasks like prioritizing homework assignments.” Related terms: Working memory, cognitive flexibility, time management.

Exposure Therapy

A CBT technique that involves gradual exposure to feared situations or stimuli to reduce anxiety over time. Often used for phobias or PTSD. Example: “Exposure therapy helped our son overcome his fear of public speaking by practicing in small groups.” Related terms: Systematic desensitization, flooding, hierarchy of fears.

F

FBA (Functional Behavioral Assessment)

An analysis conducted to identify the purpose behind challenging behaviors and develop interventions accordingly. Typically used in schools for students with disabilities. Example: “The FBA revealed that our teen’s disruptive behavior was due to sensory overload in crowded classrooms.” Related terms: Behavior intervention plan (BIP), antecedent-behavior-consequence (ABC), IDEA.

Family Systems Theory

A psychological framework emphasizing how family dynamics influence individual behavior and mental health. Example: “Family systems therapy helped us understand how unresolved conflicts affect our son’s anxiety.” Related terms: Bowen theory, triangulation, genogram.

Fight-or-Flight Response

The body’s automatic physiological reaction to perceived danger or stress. Often linked to anxiety disorders or trauma responses. Example: “Our daughter’s fight-or-flight response is triggered during exams due to test anxiety.” Related terms: Cortisol levels, hypervigilance, parasympathetic nervous system.

Frontal Lobe Dysfunction

Impairments in the frontal lobe of the brain that affect decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Associated with ADHD and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Example: “Frontal lobe dysfunction explains why our teen struggles with impulsivity and planning ahead.” Related terms: Executive functioning deficits, neuropsychological testing.

G

GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder)

A mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life. Example: “Our daughter’s GAD manifests as constant concern about her academic performance, even when she’s doing well.” Related terms: Rumination, cognitive distortions, somatic symptoms.

Grounding Techniques

Coping strategies used to connect individuals to the present moment, often used for anxiety, dissociation, or PTSD. Example: “The ‘5-4-3-2-1’ grounding technique helps our son manage panic attacks by focusing on his senses.” Related terms: Mindfulness, sensory awareness, emotional regulation.

Group Therapy

A form of psychotherapy where multiple clients work with one or more therapists in a group setting. Example: “Group therapy sessions have helped our teen develop social skills and realize she’s not alone in her struggles.” Related terms: Peer support, psychoeducation, interpersonal learning.

H

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)

U.S. legislation that provides data privacy and security provisions for safeguarding medical information. Example: “We signed HIPAA forms to allow our teen’s therapist to communicate with their school counselor.” Related terms: Confidentiality, release of information, privacy rights.

Harm Reduction

An approach to substance use and risky behaviors that focuses on minimizing negative consequences rather than demanding immediate abstinence. Example: “The harm reduction program taught our son safer practices while he works towards sobriety.” Related terms: Substance use disorder, overdose prevention, needle exchange.

Hypervigilance

A state of increased alertness and sensitivity to one’s environment, often associated with anxiety disorders or PTSD. Example: “Our daughter’s hypervigilance in social situations stems from past bullying experiences.” Related terms: Heightened arousal, threat perception, fight-or-flight response.

I

IEP (Individualized Education Program)

A legally binding document that outlines special education services and accommodations for students with disabilities. Example: “Our son’s IEP includes extended time on tests and a quiet space for when he feels overwhelmed.” Related terms: IDEA, 504 Plan, special education rights.

Intrusive Thoughts

Unwanted, distressing thoughts that repeatedly enter a person’s mind, often seen in OCD or anxiety disorders. Example: “CBT helps our teen manage intrusive thoughts about contamination that fuel her compulsive hand-washing.” Related terms: Thought suppression, cognitive restructuring, exposure and response prevention (ERP).

Inpatient Treatment

Intensive mental health care provided in a residential setting, typically for acute crises or severe symptoms. Example: “After a suicide attempt, our daughter entered inpatient treatment for stabilization and intensive therapy.” Related terms: Psychiatric hospitalization, residential treatment, crisis intervention.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

A time-limited treatment focusing on improving interpersonal relationships and social functioning to alleviate symptoms of mood disorders. Example: “IPT helped our teen navigate social conflicts that were exacerbating his depression.” Related terms: Attachment theory, social skills training, role transitions.

IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program)

A structured mental health treatment program that provides more support than traditional outpatient therapy without full hospitalization. Example: “The IOP’s three-hour daily sessions allowed our son to receive intensive treatment while still living at home.” Related terms: Partial hospitalization program (PHP), step-down care, continuum of care.

J

Juvenile Justice System

A legal system designed to handle cases involving minors who commit crimes or exhibit delinquent behavior. Often intersects with mental health concerns. Example: “Our teen was referred to a diversion program through the juvenile justice system after a shoplifting incident.” Related terms: Diversion programs, probation, restorative justice.

Journaling Therapy

A therapeutic technique that uses writing as a tool for self-expression and emotional processing. Example: “Journaling therapy helped our daughter process her feelings about her parents’ divorce.” Related terms: Expressive writing, self-reflection, narrative therapy.

Judgment-Free Zone

A term often used in therapy to describe an environment where individuals can share openly without fear of criticism or shame. Example: “Our son felt comfortable discussing his struggles in a judgment-free zone during group therapy.” Related terms: Safe space, unconditional positive regard, therapeutic alliance.

K

Ketamine-Assisted Therapy

A treatment using ketamine, administered under medical supervision, to address severe depression or PTSD. Often paired with psychotherapy. Example: “Ketamine-assisted therapy was suggested after traditional antidepressants failed to help our teen.” Related terms: Psychedelic therapy, treatment-resistant depression, somatic therapies.

Kinesthetic Learning

A learning style where individuals learn best through physical activities rather than listening or watching. Often relevant for teens with ADHD or sensory processing issues. Example: “Kinesthetic learning techniques helped our son stay engaged in his lessons by incorporating movement.” Related terms: Sensory integration, experiential learning, hands-on activities.

Kleptomania

A rare impulse control disorder characterized by the inability to resist stealing items that are not needed for personal use or monetary gain. Example: “The therapist explained that kleptomania is a compulsive behavior linked to underlying emotional distress.” Related terms: Impulse control disorders, compulsions, behavioral therapy.

L

LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)

A credentialed mental health professional trained in psychotherapy and case management. Example: “We worked with an LCSW who specializes in family dynamics and adolescent behavior.” Related terms: LMFT, LPC, clinical social work.

Learned Helplessness

A psychological condition where individuals feel powerless to change their circumstances due to repeated failures or trauma. Example: “Our teen’s learned helplessness made her reluctant to try new coping strategies for anxiety.” Related terms: Resilience building, cognitive restructuring, self-efficacy.

LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy

A therapeutic approach that supports and validates the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals while addressing unique challenges they may face. Example: “Our son felt understood and accepted during LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy sessions.” Related terms: Gender dysphoria, minority stress model, inclusive care.

Life Skills Training

Programs designed to teach practical skills such as communication, time management, and emotional regulation to improve independence and functionality. Example: “Life skills training helped our daughter prepare for college by teaching her budgeting and stress management techniques.” Related terms: Psychoeducation, executive functioning support, independent living skills.

LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist)

A credentialed therapist specializing in family systems and relationship dynamics. Example: “The LMFT guided us through family therapy sessions focused on improving communication patterns.” Related terms: LCSW, LPC, systemic therapy.

M

Mandated Reporting

A legal requirement for certain professionals (e.g., teachers, therapists) to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Example: “Our teen’s counselor explained their role as a mandated reporter before beginning therapy sessions.” Related terms: Child protective services, confidentiality limits, abuse prevention.

Medication Management

The process of overseeing and adjusting psychiatric medications to optimize their effectiveness and minimize side effects. Example: “Regular medication management appointments helped fine-tune our son’s ADHD medication dosage.” Related terms: Psychopharmacology, titration, therapeutic drug monitoring.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

A structured program that uses mindfulness meditation to alleviate stress and improve overall well-being. Example: “MBSR techniques helped our daughter manage her test anxiety more effectively.” Related terms: Meditation, present-moment awareness, body scan.

Motivational Interviewing

A counseling approach designed to elicit behavior change by helping clients explore and resolve ambivalence. Example: “Motivational interviewing sessions helped our teen recognize his own reasons for wanting to quit substance use.” Related terms: Stages of change, ambivalence, change talk.

Multisystemic Therapy (MST)

An intensive, family-focused treatment approach for youth with serious behavioral problems. Example: “MST helped address our son’s aggressive behavior by working with our family, his school, and peer group.” Related terms: Family systems theory, community-based interventions, wraparound services.

N

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

A group of conditions that affect brain development and function, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and learning disabilities. Example: “Understanding neurodevelopmental disorders helped us advocate for appropriate accommodations at school.” Related terms: Executive functioning, sensory processing, developmental delays.

Neurofeedback

A type of biofeedback that uses real-time displays of brain activity to teach self-regulation of brain function. Example: “Neurofeedback sessions helped our daughter improve her focus and reduce anxiety symptoms.” Related terms: EEG biofeedback, brain-computer interface, neuroplasticity.

Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI)

The deliberate, self-inflicted destruction of body tissue without suicidal intent, often used as a coping mechanism. Example: “DBT skills training helped our teen develop healthier alternatives to NSSI for managing intense emotions.” Related terms: Cutting, self-harm, emotional regulation.

Neuropsychological Testing

Comprehensive assessment of cognitive functions, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Example: “Neuropsychological testing revealed specific learning challenges that informed our son’s IEP.” Related terms: Cognitive assessment, psychoeducational evaluation, executive function testing.

O

OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)

A mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). Example: “Our daughter’s OCD manifested as excessive hand-washing and constant checking of locked doors.” Related terms: Intrusive thoughts, exposure and response prevention (ERP), scrupulosity.

ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder)

A behavioral disorder characterized by persistent patterns of angry, irritable mood and defiant, argumentative behavior towards authority figures. Example: “Parent management training helped us address our son’s ODD behaviors more effectively.” Related terms: Conduct disorder, behavioral interventions, defiance.

Off-Label Prescribing

The practice of prescribing medications for purposes not approved by regulatory agencies. Common in child psychiatry due to limited FDA-approved options. Example: “The psychiatrist suggested off-label use of an antipsychotic medication to manage our teen’s severe aggression.” Related terms: Black box warning, informed consent, pharmacological interventions.

Outpatient Treatment

Mental health care provided on a non-residential basis, typically involving regular appointments with mental health professionals. Example: “Our teen attends weekly outpatient therapy sessions to manage her depression while continuing school.” Related terms: Psychotherapy, medication management, community-based care.

P

PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections)

A condition where strep throat triggers sudden onset of OCD symptoms or tics in children. Example: “Our son’s abrupt personality change and hand-washing compulsions led to a PANDAS diagnosis after a strep infection.” Related terms: PANS, autoimmune encephalitis, Sydenham’s chorea.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

An intensive, structured mental health treatment program that provides comprehensive care during the day while allowing patients to return home at night. Example: “The PHP offered our daughter more support than outpatient therapy but didn’t require full hospitalization.” Related terms: Day treatment, intensive outpatient program (IOP), step-down care.

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

A mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety. Example: “Our teen developed PTSD symptoms after a car accident, including hypervigilance while driving.” Related terms: Trauma-informed care, EMDR, complex PTSD.

Psychoeducation

The process of providing information and education about mental health conditions, treatments, and coping strategies to individuals and families. Example: “Psychoeducation sessions helped our family understand the nature of bipolar disorder and how to support our teen.” Related terms: Family education, mental health literacy, self-management skills.

Psychosis

A mental state characterized by a disconnect from reality, often involving hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking. Example: “Early intervention for psychosis helped our son manage his symptoms and prevent a full-blown episode.” Related terms: Schizophrenia, prodromal symptoms, first-episode psychosis.

Q

Quality of Life Assessment

A standardized measure used to evaluate an individual’s overall well-being and satisfaction across various life domains. Example: “Regular quality of life assessments helped track our daughter’s progress in residential treatment.” Related terms: Functional assessment, patient-reported outcomes, holistic care.

Quiet BPD

A less outwardly expressed form of Borderline Personality Disorder where symptoms like intense emotions and self-criticism are primarily internalized, making it harder to detect. Example: “Our therapist recognized signs of quiet BPD in Sarah, even though she didn’t have dramatic outbursts.” Related terms: High-functioning BPD, internalized symptoms, emotional dysregulation.

R

Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)

A condition in young children characterized by difficulties forming healthy attachments with caregivers, often stemming from early neglect or inconsistent care. Diagnostic Note: Rarely first diagnosed in adolescence. Example: “Understanding a child’s RAD history informs our therapeutic approach in residential care.” Related terms: Attachment theory, secure attachment, disorganized attachment.

Recovery-Oriented Care

An approach to mental health treatment that focuses on empowering individuals to live full and meaningful lives despite their mental health challenges. Emphasizes hope, personal responsibility, and self-determination. Example: “Our center’s recovery-oriented care model helps teens set goals beyond symptom reduction.” Related terms: Strengths-based approach, resilience, wellness.

Relapse Prevention

Strategies and skills taught to individuals in treatment to help them identify triggers, manage cravings, and avoid returning to problematic behaviors (e.g., substance use, self-harm). Example: “The relapse prevention group teaches coping mechanisms for high-risk situations.” Related terms: Trigger identification, harm reduction, aftercare planning.

Resilience

The ability to bounce back from adversity, stress, or trauma. Fostering resilience is a key goal in adolescent mental health treatment. Example: “Therapy focuses on building resilience by helping teens develop coping skills and self-efficacy.” Related terms: Protective factors, coping mechanisms, post-traumatic growth.

Residential Treatment Center (RTC)

A live-in facility providing structured therapeutic care for individuals with significant mental health or behavioral challenges. Offers a higher level of support than outpatient therapy. Example: “After struggling with severe depression and self-harm, our daughter entered a residential treatment center for intensive therapy.” Related terms: Inpatient treatment, therapeutic boarding school, continuum of care.

Rumination

Repetitive and passive thinking about negative feelings, experiences, or problems without actively trying to solve them. Common in anxiety and depression. Example: “CBT helps teens identify and challenge patterns of rumination about social interactions.” Related terms: Worry, intrusive thoughts, cognitive restructuring.

S

Safety Plan

A written, step-by-step plan developed collaboratively with an individual to help them manage suicidal thoughts, urges for self-harm, or other crises. Includes coping strategies, support contacts, and emergency resources. Example: “The therapist helped Jamie create a safety plan to use when feeling overwhelmed by suicidal ideation.” Related terms: Crisis intervention, risk assessment, de-escalation techniques.

Self-Efficacy

An individual’s belief in their own ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. Building self-efficacy is important for overcoming challenges and achieving goals in mental health recovery. Example: “Through skill-building activities and positive reinforcement, we aim to increase teens’ self-efficacy.” Related terms: Confidence, mastery, empowerment.

Self-Regulation

The ability to understand and manage one’s own behavior and reactions to feelings and things happening around them. Often a focus in therapy for ADHD, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation. Example: “DBT skills help teens improve their self-regulation during intense emotional states.” Related terms: Emotional regulation, impulse control, executive functioning.

Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS)

A trait involving a heightened awareness and reactivity to sensory stimuli. Often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Example: “Understanding Sarah’s SPS helps us create a less overstimulating environment for her.” Related terms: Highly sensitive person (HSP), sensory overload, sensory integration.

Social Skills Training

A type of therapy that focuses on teaching and practicing social interaction skills to improve communication and relationships. Often beneficial for teens with ASD, social anxiety, or ADHD. Example: “Group therapy includes social skills training exercises to help teens navigate peer interactions.” Related terms: Interpersonal effectiveness, social cues, communication skills.

Stigma (Mental Health)

Negative attitudes, beliefs, and discrimination directed towards individuals with mental health conditions and their families. Can prevent people from seeking help. Example: “Reducing mental health stigma through education and open conversations is crucial.” Related terms: Prejudice, discrimination, internalized stigma.

Stimulant Medications

A class of medications commonly used to treat ADHD by increasing focus and reducing impulsivity. Example: “Our psychiatrist prescribed stimulant medication as part of Michael’s ADHD treatment plan.” Related terms: ADHD, medication management, non-stimulant medications.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

A condition characterized by the harmful pattern of using substances (e.g., drugs, alcohol) despite negative consequences. Example: “Our dual diagnosis program addresses both mental health and substance use disorders.” Related terms: Addiction, dependence, harm reduction.

Suicidal Ideation

Thoughts about ending one’s own life. Can range from fleeting thoughts to detailed plans. Requires careful assessment and intervention. Example: “Any report of suicidal ideation is taken seriously and addressed with a safety plan.” Related terms: Self-harm, suicide risk assessment, crisis intervention.

Systemic Therapy

A therapeutic approach that views psychological problems as arising from and being maintained by patterns within a family or other social system. Focuses on understanding and changing these patterns. Example: “Family therapy using a systemic approach helped us understand how our communication styles were impacting our teen.” Related terms: Family systems theory, triangulation, boundaries.

T

Therapeutic Alliance

The positive and collaborative relationship between a therapist and a client, considered essential for effective therapy. Example: “Building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and empathy is our priority.” Related terms: Rapport, empathy, unconditional positive regard.

Therapeutic Boarding School

A residential program that combines academic instruction with therapeutic support for adolescents with emotional, behavioral, or learning challenges. Often a longer-term placement than a traditional RTC. Example: “Due to his complex needs, we opted for a therapeutic boarding school that could provide both academic and intensive therapeutic support.” Related terms: Residential treatment center, wilderness therapy, long-term care.

Trauma-Informed Care

An approach to care that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma on individuals and seeks to avoid re-traumatization while promoting healing and safety. Example: “Our center utilizes a trauma-informed care approach in all aspects of treatment.” Related terms: PTSD, ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences), safety planning.

Triangulation

In family systems theory, a dynamic where two family members in conflict involve a third member to stabilize the relationship or deflect tension. Example: “Therapy helped us recognize patterns of triangulation where our daughter was caught between our marital disagreements.” Related terms: Enmeshment, family boundaries, systemic therapy.

U

Unconditional Positive Regard

A core concept in person-centered therapy, referring to the therapist’s complete acceptance and support of the client without judgment. Example: “Our therapists strive to offer unconditional positive regard to help teens feel safe and accepted.” Related terms: Empathy, genuineness, therapeutic alliance.

V

Validation (Emotional)

Acknowledging and accepting someone’s emotions as real and understandable, even if you don’t agree with the behavior resulting from those emotions. A key skill taught in DBT. Example: “Learning to validate our teen’s feelings, even when they seemed extreme, improved our communication.” Related terms: Empathy, active listening, emotional regulation.

W

Wellness

An active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life. Encompasses physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual aspects. Example: “Our program promotes overall wellness through activities like yoga, mindfulness, and healthy eating.” Related terms: Self-care, holistic health, resilience.

Wilderness Therapy

A type of experiential therapy conducted in a wilderness setting, often involving outdoor activities and challenges to promote self-reliance, teamwork, and personal growth. Can be a short-term intervention or a longer placement. Example: “Before entering our residential program, some teens benefit from a wilderness therapy experience.” Related terms: Adventure therapy, experiential learning, therapeutic boarding school.

Wraparound Services

A team-based, individualized approach to care that integrates various services and supports to meet the complex needs of individuals and families, often involving collaboration across multiple agencies. Example: “Our CTSS program utilizes a wraparound approach to provide comprehensive support in the community.” Related terms: Case management, individualized care, community-based services.

X

(Few common terms starting with X in this context)

Y

Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA)

An educational program that teaches adults how to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges and crises in adolescents and how to offer initial help. Example: “All our staff are trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid.” Related terms: Mental health literacy, crisis intervention, early intervention.

Z

(Few common terms starting with Z in this context)

This expanded glossary should provide a more comprehensive understanding of the terminology used in the context of teen mental health and residential treatment. Let me know if you’d like definitions clarified or other terms added!

Sources & Citations

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American ¹ Psychiatric Publishing.   

   1. en.wikipedia.org

   en.wikipedia.org
   1. This is the primary diagnostic manual used by mental health professionals in the United States. It provides detailed criteria, diagnostic features, and associated features for a wide range of mental health disorders affecting adolescents.

2. American Psychological Association. (n.d.). APA Dictionary of Psychology. Retrieved from https://dictionary.apa.org/

   1. This comprehensive online dictionary offers definitions for thousands of psychological terms, including those related to mental health diagnoses, treatment approaches, and related concepts relevant to adolescents.

3. World Health Organization. (2019). ICD-11: International classification of diseases (11th ed.). Retrieved from https://icd.who.int/

   1. The ICD is another widely used diagnostic classification system. The 11th edition includes classifications for mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders in adolescents, offering a global perspective.

4. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Health Topics. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/

   1. The NIMH website provides accessible information on various mental health disorders affecting children and adolescents, including descriptions, signs and symptoms, and treatment options.

5. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Behavioral Health Topics. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/mental-health-topics

   1. SAMHSA offers resources and information on a wide range of behavioral health topics relevant to adolescents, including mental health disorders, substance use, and treatment approaches.

6. Corey, G. (2021). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.

   1. This textbook provides an overview of various therapeutic approaches used in counseling and psychotherapy with adolescents, explaining the key concepts and techniques associated with different treatment modalities.

7. Friedberg, R. D., & McClure, J. M. (2017). Clinical practice of cognitive therapy with children and adolescents: The nuts and bolts. Guilford Press.

   1. This book offers a detailed explanation of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques commonly used in the treatment of adolescent mental health disorders, defining key CBT concepts and strategies.

8. Linehan, M. M. (2014). DBT skills training manual (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

   1. This manual outlines the principles and skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a treatment often used with adolescents who experience significant emotional dysregulation. It defines the core skill modules and their components.

9. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. (n.d.). Facts for Families. Retrieved from https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Home.aspx

   1. This resource provides brief, easy-to-understand fact sheets on various mental health disorders affecting children and adolescents, as well as information on treatment options and related topics, using accessible language.

About The Author

Cheryl Nunn brings a unique blend of seasoned leadership and cutting-edge AI & MBA proficiency to her consulting practice. As a former CEO of a thriving publishing company, she has a proven track record of driving growth, optimizing operations, and fostering a culture of success. This real-world experience, coupled with a deep understanding of business dynamics, forms the foundation of her writing and consulting work. Cheryl Nunn brings a unique blend of seasoned leadership and cutting-edge AI proficiency to her consulting practice. Learn more about Cheryl’s expertise at her LinkedIn Profile or on our “About Us” page.