Day Treatment
What is Day Treatment?
Our Day Treatment program is designed for children ages 5-18 who face emotional, behavioral, or attachment challenges that interfere with their academic success. Our program provides students with greater behavioral and therapeutic support by maintaining a balance between education and therapeutic issues. The ultimate goal is to equip students with the skills they need to successfully transition back into a traditional classroom environment.
How Does It Work?
Services are provided in a public school environment, typically at an alternative school site. Each treatment environment is staffed by a certified teacher, a qualified mental health professional, and a licensed clinician. Each site also has a program manager. The teachers are provided by the child’s school system and maintain a focus on academics, while the treatment staff focuses on treatment related to: identified needs and deficits in behavior,
social skills, self-regulation, and symptom management.
Program Highlights
Overview and Accessibility
Day Treatment services are available to students in Iredell County who require intensive support in a school setting. Referrals are coordinated through the school system and must be authorized by Medicaid. Eligibility includes students with a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Service Model and Delivery
Our team-based approach ensures that students receive both academic instruction and therapeutic care in a safe, supportive environment. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is the primary treatment model, and family involvement is encouraged through therapy sessions, team meetings, and skill-building opportunities. This holistic model supports progress at school and at home.
Program Timeline and Structure
The average length of stay in Day Treatment is one to two semesters, depending on the student’s needs and progress. The program is designed to stabilize emotional and behavioral challenges and prepare students for a successful transition back into a traditional classroom. Each student receives individualized support tailored to their goals and developmental needs.
Meet Timothy
Timothy, a 12-year-old with mood and anxiety disorders, struggled in school with emotional outbursts, difficulty following rules, and challenges connecting with others. His mother was overwhelmed by frequent calls about his behavior and sought additional support. Timothy began working with our Day Treatment team and made meaningful progress, meeting many of his goals. However, after being discharged, he faced setbacks and was recommended to return to the program.
Upon rejoining Day Treatment, Timothy showed renewed motivation and focus. He worked closely with our team to develop coping strategies that helped him manage emotions and follow classroom routines. His growth became evident, he felt more confident, he used his skills daily, and he took pride in his progress. His mother noticed the positive changes and expressed deep gratitude for the support he received. Now preparing for discharge again, Timothy is determined to continue building on the foundation he’s worked hard to create.
Child’s name and photo have been changed for his protection, but his story is very real.
Day Treatment FAQs
What therapeutic interventions are included in the Day Treatment program?
The Day Treatment program incorporates group and individual therapy sessions with a licensed clinician. Students can also receive family sessions to address mental health needs and promote skills that can be reinforced in both school and home settings. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is the primary evidence-based treatment modality used to encourage emotion regulation, promote appropriate social skills, and enhance decision-making skills in a healthy and safe environment.
Who is eligible for the Day Treatment program and where are services provided?
The program serves children ages 5-18 in Iredell County. Services are provided in a public school environment, typically at an alternative school site. Referrals are made by school staff and authorized by the child’s insurance company, with the goal of equipping students with skills that will help them succeed when they transfer back into a traditional classroom. Eligibility includes students with a 504 plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
What kind of support and staffing does the Day Treatment program offer?
Each treatment environment is staffed by a certified teacher, a qualified mental health professional, and a licensed clinician. Each site also has a program manager. The teachers, provided by the child’s school system, focus on academics, while the treatment staff addresses identified needs and deficits in behavior, social skills, self-regulation, and symptom management. Parent participation in team meetings, classroom events, and parent education/skill development opportunities is encouraged to support the entire family. The average length of treatment is 1-2 semesters.