Adolescent Program
GenPsych, PC now offers a broad range of outpatient services to adolescents and young adults who are single and dependent on their family of origin and who are experiencing difficult emotional or behavioral issues through assessments, therapy, education and peer support groups. GenPsych’s Adolescent IOP Programs are offered in our Bridgewater, Princeton and Hamilton Facilities
The Adolescent Program is designed to meet the particular needs of an individual by first conducting an accurate biopsychosocial assessment to determine any co-occurring psychiatric or behavioral issues.
The assessment examines medical issues, chemical dependence concerns, mental health issues, educational needs, job stressors, the family system and other major life areas. The information that is gathered is then incorporated into a treatment plan for the adolescent that specifically addresses their unique challenges and concerns.
The comprehensive program consists of psychiatric evaluation, the development of medication protocol and management, regular individual sessions with the psychiatrist, regular peer support groups, individual psychotherapy, psychoeducation and meetings with family members. The specialized program is structured so that adolescents can establish relationships with their peers and with the staff in a consistent manner.
The adolescents will participate in specialized programming that includes:
- Depression and Anxiety
- Anger Issues
- Abandonment
- Body Image, Self Injurious Behaviors
- Relapse Prevention
- Family Meetings
Our Adolescent Programs run after school from 4pm – 6pm,
Therapeutic Interventions
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Our CBT groups will help the individual to identify and solve problems related to dysfunctional emotions, cognitions, and behavior. We utilize a goal-oriented systematic process. The individual will explore alternate behaviors to cope with life stressors and painful emotions.
Process Groups – These group sessions will allow the individual to explore the underlying issues, which have led to an increase in psychiatric symptoms. We address issues such as; anxiety and depression in these groups. These groups are a great source of support for our patients.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy – Our DBT groups are designed to help the individual tolerate and regulate emotions, cope with stress, be mindful of the present, develop ways to self soothe, and reduce self-harm behaviors.
Skills Development Groups – Individuals will be educated on healthy ways to cope with overwhelming emotions and situations. We specifically work on assertiveness training and conflict resolution skills in this group. The individual’s will learn, practice and implement these skills on a daily basis.
Multi-family Groups – This group is an essential component for the treatment of the individual and their families. We provide education and support to assist with alleviating stress and understanding how to recognize when the patient is decompensating. We have found families find comfort when other families share strategies that have helped them overcome obstacles in their lives.
Individual Therapy – Each individual will receive an assigned therapist who will conduct individual therapeutic sessions while the patient is in the program. The therapist will work on building trust to allow the patient to express his or her thoughts and emotions, while gaining insight into his or her mental health issues.
Family Therapy – Family therapy sessions will be conducted by the individual’s assigned therapist. Families will have the opportunity to participate in both the multi-family groups and individualized family sessions. Education and support will be provided during these sessions. The goals of family therapy include, but are not limited to: educating the family about psychiatric disorders, solving family problems, improving communication and creating a better functioning home environment.
Medication Management – Each individual will receive an assigned psychiatrist or advanced practice nurse who will monitor and manage medications while the patient is in the program.
Art Therapy Groups – During art therapy, patients will explore intense and painful thoughts in a supportive environment. The patients utilize a variety of mediums to create a visual representation of their thoughts and feelings.
Substance Abuse Skills – Individuals will be educated on substance abuse issues, such as introduction to twelve step, dual education, effects of drugs/alcohol on the brain, understanding addiction, understanding relapse, mindfulness, and relaxation/meditation. The individuals will learn, practice and implement these skills on a daily basis.
