Teen mental health challenges are on the rise nationwide, and Pennsylvania is no exception. Adolescents in the state face significant struggles with depression, anxiety, substance use, and behavioral issues. Families searching for support often feel overwhelmed by the complexities of finding effective care.
With locations in Pennsylvania and throughout the Northeast, Newport offers evidence-based treatment that empowers teens and their families to heal and thrive.
Pennsylvania Teen Mental Health Statistics
Mental health challenges among teens in Pennsylvania are a growing concern, particularly in areas of school violence, bullying, racism, and LGBTQ+ discrimination. Recent statistics from Mental Health America reveal the following:
- About 14 percent of Pennsylvania youth reported experiencing at least one major depressive episode in the past year.
- Over 9 percent of teens in the state reported chronic and severe major depression, with more than half (55 percent) not receiving any treatment.
- Nearly 7 percent of Pennsylvania youth struggle with a substance use disorder.
- For every one mental health provider in Pennsylvania, there are 420 people in need of treatment.
Girls, LGBTQ+ youth, and teens of color face disproportionate challenges. According to the CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey, rates of violence, bullying, homophobia, transphobia, and racism at school are on the rise nationally, with 13 percent of teens missing school due to safety concerns. These trends underscore the need for accessible, comprehensive mental health services.
Questions?
We know that reaching out can be difficult.
Our compassionate team of experts is here to help.
Call us at 877-929-5105
or complete the form below.
How to Know if Your Teen Needs Mental Healthcare
Adolescence is filled with emotional, mental, and physical changes, but some signs indicate the need for professional support. Here are mental health red flags to watch for:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness lasting more than a few weeks
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Intense mood swings or anger outbursts
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Declining academic performance
- Refusing to go to school
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
- Self-harm or talk of suicide
- Risky behaviors, including substance use
If your teen shows these symptoms for more than a couple of weeks, it’s time to explore professional treatment options.
Barriers to Getting Your Teen Therapy in Pennsylvania
Despite the increasing need for teen mental health services, many families encounter limitations that prevent them from seeking care. Common obstacles include:
Stigma Around Mental Health
Social judgment and misconceptions often discourage families from acknowledging their teen’s struggles. We work with families around this stigma, helping everyone understand mental health and how to cope with it.
Lack of Understanding
Parents may mistake symptoms of mental health issues for typical teenage behavior. We can help you figure out if your teen’s behavior is normal or if it points to something that needs to be addressed.
Financial Constraints
High treatment costs, limited insurance coverage, and out-of-network providers make mental healthcare inaccessible for many families. At Newport, we work with a host of insurance companies to get you the care you need.
Provider Shortages
Pennsylvania’s ratio of mental health providers to individuals highlights a critical shortage, especially in rural areas.
Denial or Minimization
Parents may downplay their teen’s issues, hoping they will go away on their own or be part of a “phase” that will resolve naturally. We help connect families with expert guidance and financial counseling, ensuring families feel supported and resourced.
How Our Mental Health Facilities in Pennsylvania Can Help Your Teen
Choosing the right treatment program is essential for your teen’s recovery. In Pennsylvania, Newport Academy’s Center for Families offers a wide range of mental health treatment options for teens and their families, including:
- Treatment for depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, and secondary symptoms
- Therapeutic Day Program
- Intensive Outpatient
- Nourish Program
- Robust academic programming
- Personalized diagnostic assessments conducted by a team of mental health providers to guide treatment plans, including psychiatrists, doctors, dietitians, and therapists
- Support designed specifically for neurodivergent youth
- Comprehensive family involvement, including attachment-based family therapy
- Experiential therapies such as movement, creative expression, and outdoor adventures
Our Residential Treatment Centers in Pennsylvania and Throughout the Northeast
What to Expect from Our Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Center
Our approach is based on providing comprehensive, evidence-based care for teens and their families to navigate the challenges of mental health and behavioral concerns. With a focus on restoring trust and connection within families, Center for Families creates a foundation for long-term growth and healing.
We offer the following programs:
Therapeutic Day Program: Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) for Teens in Pennsylvania
The Therapeutic Day School at Center for Families is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) designed to help teens build self-worth, strengthen relationships, work on academics, and practice healthy coping skills. This daytime program is available for teens ages 13–18 at our Malvern and West Chester, PA locations.
Our PHP incorporates:
- A structured schedule with a variety of evidence-based therapies, including group therapy, individual counseling, and family therapy.
- Diagnostic assessments by licensed psychiatrists to inform personalized care plans.
- Robust academic programming with one-on-one instruction and tutoring to support educational growth.
This program is ideal for teens needing intensive support during the day while returning home in the evenings, allowing them to balance their recovery with family life.
Intensive Outpatient Treatment for Teens in Pennsylvania
CFF’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides structured, ongoing care for teens ages 13–18 who are experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or behavioral concerns.
This program offers:
- Supportive care while teens continue with their regular school schedules.
- A step-down option for teens transitioning from PHP or residential treatment.
- A focus on skill development and emotional regulation to support long-term success.
Teens in the IOP program attend therapy sessions multiple times a week, allowing them to build resilience and stay connected to their daily lives.
Newport’s Center for Families has two Pennsylvania locations, and both facilities are part of Newport Academy’s nationwide network of trusted care providers. Other Northeastern locations include, Connecticut, Maryland, and Massachusetts.
Get Started Today
Our trained staff can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your questions and help you decide the best level of care for your teen. Call us today or come in to any of our centers for a free mental health assessment.
