The summer mental health programs at Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health provide a safe and supportive space where teens receive the support they need while staying engaged with their peers and daily routines. Designed for adolescents ages 12–17, these summer outpatient programs help teens focus on their mental and emotional health without hospitalization.
Accessing Care and Contact Information
Getting started with care at Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health is simple. The Assessment and Mental Health Referral Department is open 24/7 and accepts calls from families, loved ones, and provider referrals.
In urgent situations, individuals are encouraged to seek care now by contacting a crisis hotline or the facility directly for immediate assistance and guidance.
The admissions process starts with a no-charge assessment by a licensed Intake & Referral clinician. The clinician will review conditions and recommend the appropriate level of care, whether inpatient or outpatient.
From there, the admissions team is available to answer questions, review insurance and payment options, and help each adolescent and their family feel prepared for the next steps.
To begin the admissions process, call the Assessment and Mental Health Referral Department at (949) 900-8600.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Care Options
At Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health, multiple programs are available for ages 12-17, with care levels designed to match symptom severity and supervision needs.
Inpatient care provides 24-hour support in a highly structured setting with non-stop care and monitoring. This level of treatment is best for teens experiencing acute mental health challenges, while outpatient services allow teens to still receive intensive treatment during the day, but return home afterward.
A thorough mental health assessment by an intake clinician helps determine the appropriate level of care. Call to schedule a free appointment and assessment today at (949) 900-8600.
Outpatient Treatment Services for Teens
Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health offers two summer outpatient programs for adolescents ages 12-17: a partial hospitalization program and an intensive outpatient program.
The partial hospitalization program (PHP) is the more structured of the two options. Teens attend programming on Monday through Friday from 2 PM to 7 PM and participate in four therapy groups each day. Summer academic enrichment and educational support are also built into the schedule to keep teens engaged, and dinner is provided.
The Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) at Aliso Ridge run 3 days per week. This option is more flexible, but offers more structure and support than weekly outpatient visits. Summer educational support is also available alongside therapy groups and counseling, helping teens stay engaged and prepared for the school year ahead.
Both PHP and IOP focus on supporting teens by educating patients on coping strategies, self-confidence, healthy communication, and resilience building. Adolescents also participate in therapeutic arts, crafts, and recreational activities that encourage self-expression and stress relief.
Peer support is another key component of PHP and IOP, and group therapy sessions help patients feel less isolated and more understood while learning alongside others facing similar challenges.
Conditions and Disorders Treated
Adolescents experience a wide range of emotions as they grow. Feelings like loneliness, anxiety, and sadness can come and go, especially during times of change.
However, when these emotions become persistent or start to affect daily life, it may be time to seek support.
Parents and caregivers may notice signs such as:
- Unexplained irritability or anger
- Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
- Lack of motivation or interest in daily activities
- Withdrawal from friends or activities they once enjoyed
- Persistent sadness or frequent mood swings
While these challenges can feel overwhelming for both teens and their families, they are treatable. Outpatient programs like those at Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health can help adolescents better understand what they’re experiencing and develop healthier ways to cope.
Facility Environment and Safety
Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health, the flagship facility of OC Specialty Health & Hospitals, is located in Aliso Viejo, California. The facility is welcoming, and our expert staff creates a supportive and calm environment for patients of all ages. Recreational areas and amenities are also available to support each patient as they heal and grow.
Safety is another core focus, with an emphasis on both physical security and psychological well-being. Programs are available for both adults and adolescents, with care thoughtfully separated to support the safety and comfort of each group. This is especially important for teens who may be experiencing emotional distress.
Ultimately, Aliso Ridge’s balance of safety and comfort allows adolescents to focus on their recovery, build trust with providers, and actively engage in the treatment process.
Family and Visitor Information
Family and parent involvement are a key part of successful treatment at Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health.
Throughout treatment, educational resources are provided to parents, including an adolescent treatment handbook available on the website. This education allows families to better understand their child’s mental health experience and support their teens when they return home each day.
Family members may also be invited to participate in therapy sessions and discharge planning. This involvement helps strengthen communication, reinforce the progress made during treatment, and create a more supportive transition back into daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of treatment programs are available for teens at Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health?
Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health offers a full continuum of care for adolescents, including inpatient mental health treatment, partial hospitalization day treatment, and intensive outpatient treatment. Each program is designed to meet teens where they are in their recovery, providing structured support while allowing for gradual transitions between levels of care as progress is made.
How do I get care started for my teen?
Families can begin by reaching out through the contact us options to speak with an admissions specialist. The team will guide you through admissions guidelines, assess your teen’s needs, and recommend appropriate treatment options. If the situation is urgent, you can get care now by contacting a crisis hotline or calling the facility directly for immediate support.
What conditions are treated at Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health?
The facility treats a wide range of conditions, including depression, ADD, ADHD, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and stress disorders. They also provide psychiatric help for more complex needs such as trauma, chronic pain, and treatment-resistant depression, using evidence-based therapies tailored to each patient.
What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient care?
Inpatient mental health care provides 24-hour supervision and support in a structured environment for teens experiencing acute symptoms. Outpatient services, including intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, allow teens to receive treatment during the day while living at home. A mental health assessment helps determine which option is most appropriate.
Is Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health a safe and supportive environment for teens?
Yes, the facility is designed to provide a safe space that promotes healing and stability. It features a comfortable, inviting space, along with trained staff and safety protocols that ensure teens receive care in a secure, supportive setting.
Are families involved in the treatment process?
Family involvement is strongly encouraged. Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health provides opportunities for support from friends and family through therapy sessions, education, and communication with care teams. Visiting hours and visiting requirements are structured to support both patient safety and meaningful connection.
What therapies are used in treatment programs?
Treatment may include individual therapy, group therapy, EMDR for trauma, and transcranial magnetic stimulation for treatment-resistant depression. Programs are customized based on each teen’s needs, diagnosis, and goals following a comprehensive mental health assessment.
What age groups does Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health serve?
Aliso Ridge Behavioral Health provides services for adolescents aged 12 and up, as well as adult programs. Teen-specific services are designed to address the unique emotional, developmental, and behavioral needs of this age group.
Can my teen attend a summer program while receiving outpatient treatment?
Yes, the summer outpatient programs at Aliso Ridge are designed with a teen’s schedule in mind. Both PHP and IOP allow teens to participate in summer activities while still receiving structured mental health care. Educational support is also incorporated into programming to help teens stay on track and feel prepared as the new school year approaches.
What should we expect during the admissions process?
The admissions process includes an initial assessment, a review of conditions, and the coordination of referrals, if needed. Families will receive clear guidance on treatment options, program expectations, and next steps, making it easier to navigate care and begin treatment with confidence.