Teens In Crisis
This page is dedicated to providing immediate resources and guidance for parents facing urgent and critical situations involving their troubled teens.
We understand the fear and helplessness that can arise when your child is struggling with serious mental health issues or engaging in high-risk behaviors.
Our commitment is to offer clear pathways to support, including access to free initial consultations to discuss your specific circumstances and readily available emergency contact information for immediate intervention.
We believe that in moments of crisis, having access to the right resources can make all the difference in ensuring your teen’s safety and well-being. Please know that you don’t have to navigate these terrifying situations alone – help is available, and we exist here to connect you with it.
Navigating Immediate Crises: Runaways, Suicidal Threats, and Dangerous Behaviors
When faced with an immediate crisis, such as a teen running away, threatening suicide, or exhibiting dangerous or violent behavior, swift and decisive action is crucial.
If your teen has run away:
Your immediate priority is their safety. Contact local law enforcement to file a missing person report, providing them with a recent photo and any information about where they might be headed or who they might be with. Simultaneously, reach out to trusted friends, family members, and your teen’s social network for any leads on their whereabouts. Consider contacting local shelters or youth outreach programs that may be able to provide assistance and support.
If your teen is threatening suicide or expressing thoughts of self-harm:
Treat every threat seriously. Do not leave them alone. Immediately contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (dial 988 in the US) or the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741). If you believe your teen is in immediate danger, call 911
Or call your local emergency services for a mental health crisis intervention team if available like your local hospital for teen mental health crisis team. Remove any potential means of self-harm from the environment.
In some situations, you may need to call the police for assistance to take your teen for a mental health evaluation at the hospital or other local care facility.
If your teen has become dangerous or violent:
Prioritize the safety of yourself and other family members. If the situation escalates beyond your ability to manage, do not hesitate to call 911. Document specific instances of dangerous behavior, as this information will be crucial when seeking professional help. Consider seeking immediate evaluation from a mental health professional or a crisis stabilization unit.
Addressing Disruptive Behaviors and Legal Issues: Expulsion, Vandalism, and More Serious Crimes
Beyond immediate safety crises, parents often grapple with disruptive behaviors and legal issues that require prompt attention.
If your teen has been expelled from school:
This is a significant event that signals underlying issues. While addressing the immediate consequences with the school, focus on understanding the reasons behind the expulsion. Schedule a comprehensive mental health evaluation to identify any contributing factors, such as learning disabilities, social-emotional challenges, or mental health conditions. Explore alternative educational options and therapeutic supports that can help your teen get back on track.
If your teen has engaged in criminal behavior, such as graffiti or more serious offenses:
It is essential to involve the legal system as necessary, while also recognizing that these actions are often symptoms of deeper problems. Seek immediate consultation with a mental health professional experienced in adolescent behavioral issues and potential substance abuse. Explore therapeutic interventions that address the root causes of the behavior, such as anger management, impulse control training, and restorative justice practices. Remember that navigating the legal system and addressing underlying mental health needs requires a collaborative approach involving legal professionals, mental health experts, and your family.
Free Consultations & National Hotlines
For less urgent situations and general information, we offer free initial phone consultations with experienced professionals who can provide immediate support, guidance, and help you understand your options.
During this consultation, you can discuss your specific concerns, receive personalized recommendations, and learn more about how we can assist you in finding the most appropriate and effective residential treatment solutions if that becomes necessary.
When NOT in crisis you may access a free consultation, please call (801) 683-5659 or fill out our contact form on this page, and we will connect with you as quickly as possible.
In addition to our non urgent consultations, we strongly encourage you to be prepared for urgent situations with the following national crisis hotlines readily available:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988,
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ youth): 1-866-488-7386.
These resources provide immediate, confidential support for teens in distress and can be a lifeline in critical moments. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and immediate support is available to guide you through these challenging times.
F.A.Q
Frequently Asked Questions
Our vetting process is ongoing and involves several key factors. We prioritize centers that emphasize evidence-based practices, have transparent licensing and accreditation, demonstrate a commitment to safety and ethical treatment, and ideally align with reputable industry standards. We encourage parents to conduct their own thorough due diligence in addition to the information provided here.
Directory listings typically include the center’s name, location, contact information, a brief description of their program and specialties, the age range of teens they serve, and any available information on their therapeutic approaches and accreditations.
The Terminology Guide is like a lexicon or glossary that defines common terms and acronyms used in the field of residential treatment, mental health, and behavioral health. This helps parents understand the language used by professionals and within facility descriptions, making the research process less overwhelming.
We encourage you to contact us through the website’s contact form with any concerns or inaccuracies you find. Your feedback is valuable in helping us maintain the integrity of our directory.
This site focuses specifically on RTCs for teens, offering a curated directory and glossary tailored to the unique needs of this population. We also emphasize the vetting process, providing insights and questions parents should consider that may not be readily available through general research or Google searches.
No, we are not a referral service or a placement agency. Our site provides information and resources to empower parents to make their own informed decisions. We do not endorse specific facilities or receive payment for listings.
Start by exploring the glossary to understand key terms.
Then, use the directory to identify potential facilities based on location and program focus.
Review the vetting considerations we provide and use them as a guide when researching individual centers and speaking with their representatives.
We strive to keep our directory and glossary as up-to-date as possible. However, the information in the field of residential treatment can change. We encourage parents to always verify information directly with the facilities they are considering.
While we aim to provide helpful information, we cannot offer direct advice or recommendations for individual cases. Choosing an RTC is a deeply personal decision that should be made in consultation with qualified professionals who understand your daughter’s specific needs. Our site is a starting point for your research and understanding of the options available.
Our site is a comprehensive directory and glossary designed to help parents navigate the complex world of residential treatment centers (RTCs) for teens. We aim to provide clear information, define key terms, and offer guidance on how to match the needs of your teen to with RTCs and identify safe and effective facilities.