Residential Treatment Programs for Teen Boys

Muir Wood’s primary mental health and dual-diagnosis treatment programs offer specialized care for boys 12–17 diagnosed with mental health conditions, including substance use disorders. Our nature-rich campuses provide a supportive environment with a low client-to-clinician ratio for highly personalized care. 

Our goal is to provide effective, individualized treatment in a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment. Muir Wood’s gender-specific settings help boys feel free to express themselves during treatment and allow them to build lasting emotional resilience.

“Addiction in teens often begins with emotional pain. The earlier we understand what a young person is going through, the more effectively we can step in—not just to treat, but to prevent long-term suffering.”
–Dr. David E. Smith, Chair, Addiction Medicine & MQAC, Muir Wood

Learn about Muir Wood or contact our admissions team today.

Navigating Teen Treatment Options

When teens need support that outpatient therapy cannot provide, residential treatment eliminates the distractions and triggers that can hinder progress at home or in school. This level of care offers 24-hour clinical oversight, consistent structure, and a stable, immersive setting. Muir Wood’s residential treatment programs for boys are appropriate for teens who meet at least some of the following criteria: 

• Are experiencing significant mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or mood dysregulation
• Have a dual diagnosis—struggling with both mental health concerns and substance use
• Have experienced repeated relapses or setbacks in outpatient treatment
• Engage in self-harming behaviors or other high-risk actions
• Show signs of severe depression, anxiety, or mood instability
• Express suicidal thoughts or have a history of suicidal ideation
• Struggle to function at home, in school, or in daily life due to emotional or behavioral challenges

While every teen’s path is different, many begin with a stay of 30 to 45 days to establish a strong foundation for healing. For those with more complex emotional needs or a longer history of substance use, a 60- to 90-day stay allows for deeper therapeutic work, stronger family integration, and the development of lasting coping skills and self-awareness.

At Muir Wood, we believe healing takes time—and with the right care, support, and environment, lasting change is not only possible—it’s within reach. Learn more about the conditions we treat.

Hear from a Parent

Alumnus mom Jeanine talks about her son’s journey from addiction to recovery at Muir Wood’s teen treatment program.

A Closer Look at Our Teen Boys Residential Programs

At the center of our program is a highly trained, multidisciplinary clinical team with deep expertise and a passion for adolescent recovery. Led by board-certified psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, licensed therapists, recovery counselors, and nurses, our team specializes in treating complex teen mental health conditions and co-occurring substance use. 

Through our integrated approach, teens receive psychiatric evaluations and medication management when appropriate. They also participate in trauma-informed clinical programming focused on self-regulation, relapse prevention, and family engagement. Treatment includes individual, group, and family therapy using evidence-based modalities tailored to adolescent development.

Explore our campuses located across Northern, Central, and Southern California:

• Boys Dual-Diagnosis Campus in Riverside, CA
• Boys Dual-Diagnosis Campuses in Petaluma, CA
• Boys Primary Mental Health Campus in Petaluma, CA
• Boys Dual-Diagnosis Campus in Clovis, CA

Muir Wood strives to empower teens to develop healthier coping and self-regulation skills that support success even after treatment, allowing them to address ongoing challenges and remain committed to recovery. Read our Treatment and Recovery Outcomes to learn more.

Hope and Healing: Stories from Those We’ve Helped

Parents and former clients have found hope, healing, and lasting change through our program.

“As a result of Muir Wood, our son graduated from high school and received the highest semester grade point average from his school. He applied to and was accepted to a University, was able to work as a youth counselor at a summer camp this past summer, and now has a chance for a productive and rewarding future—that we believe did not exist just a year ago.”
– E.A. (father of a Muir Wood alumnus)

“My 15-year-old son was in a downward spiral of addiction and depression that almost annihilated him and devastated our family. Muir Wood saved my son’s life and began the healing process for our family. The entire staff at Muir Wood demonstrated incredible compassion, integrity, and responsive expertise during his stay there and after discharge.”
– E.G. (mother of a Muir Wood alumnus)

Watch Muir Wood Teen Treatment Videocasts and Overview Treatment Videos to gain more insights on what we can help your loved one accomplish. 

Start Your Healing Journey with Muir Wood

Muir Wood is here to support your family every step of the way. Our programs empower teen boys to overcome their challenges and build a brighter future. For more guidance on finding the right fit for your teen, read our Parents’ Guide to Selecting a Program.

If your family is ready to proceed with treatment, take a step forward by completing an assessment form or verifying your insurance coverage.

FAQs About Teen Residential Treatment for Boys

How Will Residential Treatment Impact My Teen’s School Attendance and School Work?

At Muir Wood, academics remain a priority. Our WASC-accredited Learning Centers provide on-site instruction from credentialed teachers for at least three hours each weekday. We coordinate with your teen’s home school to support distance learning, keep them on track, and ensure academic progress continues during treatment.

Are There Any Behaviors Muir Wood Will Not Accept?

Teens whose symptoms and behaviors may impact others’ safety, such as those with active suicidal intent, unstable psychosis, or violent urges, will not be admitted to Muir Wood’s residential treatment for boys. 

How Is the Family Involved?

Our treatment team uses family systems therapy to keep you in contact with your child and prepare your family for reunification. Teens have regular opportunities for phone calls with their parents. The frequency and scheduling of these calls are tailored to support each teen’s therapeutic progress. Parents are also encouraged to participate in weekly family therapy in person or via Zoom if in-person visits are logistically challenging.

How Do I Know If a Residential Environment Is Right for My Son?

Residential treatment for boys is recommended for those who require dual-diagnosis treatment, have relapsed several times, or need a structured treatment schedule. It creates a meaningful space for progress with 24-hour supervision, therapeutic immersion, and time away from daily triggers. If your teen’s challenges are affecting school, relationships, or emotional well-being, this level of care can be a critical step toward lasting healing.

If you’re unsure about your treatment options, our intake team can evaluate your teen and make recommendations.