When your child is struggling, it’s easy to feel lost. You just want them to be okay. You want them to have the support and care they need, but you might not know where to start or what will really help. Those tween and teen years make things even trickier—they want more independence but still need your guidance. You might feel a mix of anxiety, worry, and hope as you search for answers. That’s why many parents turn to options like our youth residential programs at HillsidesCares in California. Contact our team online or call 323.641.4842 today to learn more. Don’t wait—early treatment leads to better long-term outcomes for your child.
Why Choose HillsidesCares in Pasadena?
Handing your child’s care over to someone else can be scary. Families come to HillsidesCares in Pasadena, California, because they want real help for their child—help that works. Here’s what makes HillsidesCares different:
We welcome children from all backgrounds and family structures.
Kids as young as six can get help, not just teenagers.
Residents live in five comfortable cottages on a large, green 17-acre campus.
We work with you to find the best type of care for your child’s needs, from more support to more independence.
We know many families in the greater Los Angeles area are looking for answers and hope. Our team is here to listen and guide you through every step. If you have questions, please reach out—we want to help your child and your family find relief.
We deliver personalized mental health treatment plans for youth
No two kids are the same. Each child faces their own struggles. As a parent, you want to know your child’s care will be a good fit for them—not just a one-size-fits-all plan. We get to know your child before they join us. Our team completes a careful assessment and tailors everything to your child’s goals.
Parents have seen their kids form real bonds with the team and with other young people here. These friendships and connections can build confidence and help your child feel safe and seen, even when emotions run high.
- Crisis response specialists
- Case managers
- Behavior specialists
- Nurses
- Psychiatrists
- Mental health clinicians
Our continuum of care adjusts to your child’s needs
Your child’s needs might change during treatment, and that’s okay. We check in often and can change the level of care if needed. Your child might start with more support and later move to more independence, or begin with a less-structured program if that’s a better fit.
Residential treatment
Some kids and teens need strong, 24-hour support, especially when behavior or emotions become overwhelming. Our most involved program gives your child round-the-clock care and attention until things start to get better. As they heal, we help them step down to less intensive support when they’re ready.
Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
A partial hospitalization program is often the next step down. It’s a structured option for kids who need daytime help but can spend evenings at home. If your child doesn’t need overnight care, a PHP might be the best place to start.
Intensive outpatient treatment (IOP)
An intensive outpatient program offers support while letting your child keep up with school or family life. This is usually the next step after a PHP, or if things are a little less intense, it can be where your child starts. Your child will still get structure, group sessions, and one-on-one therapy.
We keep in touch after your child leaves, through our aftercare program. Our check-ins and resources can help you and your child stay on track as life gets back to normal.
What makes the California youth residential treatment program at HillsidesCares unique?
Many places don’t help young kids—they just treat teens. At HillsidesCares, we start working with children as young as six. Getting help early can make a real difference. If your child is showing signs of struggling, starting the healing process now helps them move forward sooner.
Once admitted to our residential care, clients will have treatment consisting of:
Communication-focused, integrative care
Individual, group, and family psychotherapy
Full-time nursing staff
Virtual psychiatry
Medication management
Skill-building and therapeutic support groups for parents and guardians
Residential mental health program for youth in California
- Here’s what your child and family can expect:
- Assessments, help in tough moments, and full care when needed
- Working together with schools and your community connections
- Therapy and skills groups for parents and youth
- Help with staying on track in school during treatment
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
At HillsidesCares, we’re here to help you and your child through this challenging time. We know it’s not easy, but families tell us we’re making a real difference:
- 9.2/10 families would recommend us.
- 95% of parents were happy with their child’s experience.
- 91% felt well-informed every step of the way.
- 90% felt included and supported in their child’s care.
Every child’s journey is unique. Most stay a few weeks to a few months. We’ll create a plan tailored to your child’s needs.
We partner with many major insurance providers to make care accessible, including:
- Anthem Blue Cross
- Blue Shield of California
- Carelon Behavioral Health
- Evernorth Behavioral Health
- Kaiser Permanente
- Magellan
- Optum
Your child’s mental health and well-being come first in our short-term program. While we don’t provide direct help with schoolwork, we support your child in feeling ready to return to school when the time is right. If your child has an IEP, we’ll also collaborate with their school district to ensure appropriate coordination.
Absolutely. We’ll check in at seven and 30 days after treatment. Most parents tell us their child continues to thrive—85% didn’t need further intensive care.
Your child’s progress doesn’t stop here. Many continue with outpatient care to keep building on their success. HillsidesCares is here to guide your family every step of the way. You’re not alone—together, we can give your child a brighter future.
Fun and meaningful activities that enhance mental wellness
Every child deserves moments of fun and pride—even during tough times. At HillsidesCares, your child can discover new hobbies, build friendships, and find joy in the healing process. We know parents want their kids to laugh, create, and feel good about themselves again.
Some of the activities your child can join include:
- Cooking classes
- Yoga and meditation
- Music and art therapy
- Outdoor adventures and games
- Sleep habits classes (Monday through Friday)
No matter what your child or teen is going through, you’re not alone. If your family is feeling overwhelmed or just has questions, HillsidesCares is ready to help your child start feeling better.