Trauma-Informed Care for Teenage Girls

This program provides treatment for teenage girls, ages 13 to 17, who are experiencing behavioral issues and mental health problems as a result of long-term trauma. These traumatic histories could include experiences with sexual and physical abuse, sexual exploitation, incest, severe neglect, violence, abandonment or sudden tragic loss. The impact of this trauma can manifest in many ways. Many young women with these histories may be struggling with self-harm, suicidal thoughts, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders and other reactive behaviors and mental health issues. Hermitage Hall works with young women to stabilize any acute symptoms and then work on strategies to improve their behaviors. Residents learn how to manage the stressors and triggers that can lead to reactivity or outbursts. We want our patients to emerge from the program with the coping skills, confidence, and self-reliance to improve their mental health long term.

OUR TREATMENT APPROACH

Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation, so our staff can accurately address what traumatic experiences are causing reactive behaviors. Our program is heavily informed by trauma-informed care, allowing our treatment team to understand a patient’s background and history. This will enable the staff to create a therapeutic environment that enables growth and healing for all residents. Treatment plans are individualized, with considerations of their specific needs, abilities, and cognitive development. Commonly used treatment modalities may include, but are not limited to:

• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
• Renaissance Learning System
• Education Programming (including SPED)
• Vocational Training Program
• Social Skills Training
• Independent/Life Skills Training
• Leisure Education Services