Beachside Teen Treatment Center
Treatment in California
Teen Trauma Treatment
People of all ages may suffer trauma. Moreover, a traumatic event for a teenager can be difficult for them to deal with. In some cases trauma can take months or years to overcome while others have no trouble at all. At Beachside, we are experts in teen trauma treatment and are here to help.
At Beachside Teen, we understand how challenging it can be to see your teenager struggle with the effects of trauma. Trauma can disrupt every aspect of a teen’s life, from their relationships to their ability to succeed in school or enjoy their favorite activities. Located in serene Malibu, California, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, our residential facility provides a safe and supportive environment for teens to heal. If your teen is dealing with trauma or PTSD, we are here to help them rediscover joy and rebuild resilience through compassionate, evidence-based care.
Learn more about our teen mental health programs or call us now at 877-983-5144.
What Is Trauma?
Trauma is an emotional response to a distressing or life-altering event. For teenagers, these events can range from experiencing abuse or neglect to witnessing violence, enduring bullying, or surviving natural disasters. While some teens recover with time and support, others may struggle with long-term emotional or physical symptoms that disrupt their lives. Trauma is not about the event itself but how it impacts an individual’s sense of safety, trust, and control.
What Is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. For teens, PTSD can arise from ongoing exposure to stressors or a single, intense experience. Common triggers include accidents, loss of a loved one, or traumatic school or social situations. PTSD can make everyday life feel overwhelming and prevent your teen from engaging with the world in a healthy way.
While trauma and PTSD are closely linked, not every teen who experiences trauma will develop PTSD. However, both conditions require careful attention and tailored support.
Signs and Symptoms of Teen Trauma and PTSD
Trauma and PTSD can manifest differently in teenagers than in adults.
Common signs to watch for include:
- Emotional Symptoms: Intense fear, anxiety, sadness, anger, or feelings of numbness.
- Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from friends and family, difficulty concentrating, reckless behavior, or acting out.
- Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomach aches, fatigue, or sleep disturbances like nightmares.
- Flashbacks: Reliving the traumatic event as if it’s happening again.
- Avoidance: Refusing to talk about or engage with anything related to the traumatic event.
- Hypervigilance: Being easily startled or constantly on edge.
If your teen is showing any of these signs, it’s important to address their needs early to prevent further emotional distress.
How Can I Help My Teen with Trauma?
As a parent or guardian, you play a pivotal role in your teen’s healing journey. Start by creating a supportive and nonjudgmental environment at home. Let your teen know that their feelings are valid and that it’s okay to seek help. Avoid pressuring them to open up before they’re ready, but be present when they are. Consistency, patience, and reassurance can make a significant difference.
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How Do I Talk To My Teen About Trauma?
Talking to your teen about trauma can feel daunting, but open communication is key.
Here are a few tips:
- Choose the right moment: Pick a time when your teen feels calm and safe.
- Listen actively: Let them share their story without interrupting or judging.
- Validate their feelings: Acknowledge their pain and reassure them that it’s okay to feel the way they do.
- Avoid minimizing their experience: Even if you don’t fully understand their perspective, show empathy and support.
- Don’t force the conversation: If your teen is hesitant to talk, professional therapy can help facilitate discussions in a safe and guided manner.
When To Seek Teen Trauma Treatment or PTSD Treatment?
If your teen’s trauma symptoms are persistent, worsening, or interfering with their daily life, it may be time to seek professional treatment.
Key indicators include:
- Difficulty functioning at school or home.
- A decline in physical or mental health.
- Self-harming behaviors or thoughts of suicide.
- Persistent avoidance of activities or places.
- Significant changes in personality or mood.
Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and help your teen regain a sense of control and peace.
Our Teen Trauma Treatment Programs in Malibu
At Beachside Teen Treatment Center, we offer various levels of care to meet the unique needs of teens dealing with trauma.
- Residential Treatment Program: Our residential treatment program provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment for teens to focus on their healing journey. This level of care offers 24/7 supervision, allowing teens to fully immerse themselves in therapeutic programs designed to address the root causes of their trauma.
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Our partial hospitalization program (PHP) is ideal for teens who require intensive care but also benefit from returning home in the evenings. PHP bridges the gap between inpatient and outpatient care, offering a structured therapeutic schedule to support ongoing recovery.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): The intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides teens with flexibility while continuing their recovery journey. Designed for those transitioning from a higher level of care or needing additional support, IOP allows teens to attend therapy sessions while maintaining their daily routines, such as school or family activities.
Our team is dedicated to helping teens find the right program to support their healing and recovery journey.
How Our Teen Trauma Treatment Works
Our approach to teen trauma treatment is holistic, personalized, and grounded in compassion. At Beachside Teen, we understand that trauma affects every individual differently, which is why we create tailored treatment plans designed to meet your teen’s unique needs and goals. We combine evidence-based therapies like CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, and EMDR with supportive care that nurtures emotional and physical well-being.
Our treatment doesn’t stop at traditional talk therapy – we incorporate holistic practices like mindfulness exercises, art therapy, and yoga to help your teen connect with their emotions and regain a sense of control. Every aspect of our program is designed to empower teens to process their trauma in a safe, supportive environment. From individual therapy sessions that provide a space for private healing to group therapy that fosters connection and understanding among peers, your teen will receive care that addresses the emotional, psychological, and physical impacts of trauma. Our team of experienced clinicians, therapists, and support staff are with your teen every step of the way, helping them build resilience, rediscover joy, and move forward with confidence.
Why Beachside?
At Beachside Teen, we don’t just provide trauma treatment – we offer a place of hope, healing, and transformation. Our beautiful Malibu facility, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, provides a calming environment that fosters peace and reflection. The tranquil surroundings play an integral role in helping teens feel safe and supported as they begin their recovery journey.
Our dedicated team of clinicians, therapists, and support staff bring expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to every teen we work with. We recognize the courage it takes for teens and their families to seek help, and we honor that courage by providing the highest level of care. At Beachside, treatment is not just about addressing the symptoms of trauma – it’s about nurturing the whole person. We help your teen rebuild trust, rediscover their identity, and develop the tools they need to thrive long after they leave our care. With Beachside, your teen will find not only recovery but also the support they need to envision a brighter future.
Learn More About Teen Trauma Treatment Today
If your teen is struggling with the effects of trauma or PTSD, the most important step you can take is reaching out for help. At Beachside Teen, we understand the impact trauma can have on every aspect of your teen’s life, and we are here to provide the compassionate, professional care they deserve. Our team is ready to answer your questions, guide you through the next steps, and help you feel confident about the treatment process.
Healing is possible, and it begins with a single step. Contact us today to learn more about our Teen Trauma Treatment programs in Malibu. Together, we can create a personalized plan to help your teen heal, grow, and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling future. Let Beachside Teen be the partner your family needs on this journey to recovery.
Take the First Step Today
If your teen is struggling with bipolar disorder, you don’t have to face this journey alone. At Beachside Teen, we provide the expert care and support needed to help your teen thrive. Contact us today to learn more about our adolescent bipolar disorder treatment programs or to schedule a consultation. Together, we can pave the way toward a brighter future.
Mark Paladini
Director of Education
Last Updated on March 12, 2025
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At Beachside, our programming meets the highest standards for quality adolescent healthcare.
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Begin Trauma Treatment for Your Teen in California Today
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