Childhood trauma can significantly impact a teenager’s mental health, academic performance, and family relationships. Professional treatment is crucial to help these young individuals heal, grow, and thrive. At Family First Adolescent Services, we specialize in providing comprehensive childhood trauma treatment for boys aged 13-18, addressing their unique needs and challenges. 

The adolescent mental health treatment programs at our center in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, are designed with families in mind. Trauma doesn’t just affect your teen but also the relationships they have with parents and siblings. We work closely with families to help them understand and support their teen’s healing journey. Call 888.904.5947 to get started now.  

Complex and Acute Trauma 

Experiencing trauma creates a lasting impact, especially when it happens during childhood. There are two major kinds of trauma: complex and acute.  

• Complex trauma – Also known as chronic trauma, this is ongoing and repetitive, often caused by abuse or neglect. It can occur within the family unit, such as domestic violence or substance abuse. However, complex trauma can also stem from chronic stress experienced and projected by caregivers.  
• Acute trauma – This is a single traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, car accident, or assault. While the duration of acute trauma is shorter than complex trauma, its effects can be just as severe. 

While both types of trauma can have significant impacts on an adolescent’s life, the Family First team understands that each individual’s experience is unique. Our mental health professionals have over 120 years of combined clinical experience and are educated on the latest evidence-based practices for childhood trauma treatment. 

The Signs of Childhood Trauma 

The signs of childhood trauma may manifest differently in each individual, but some common symptoms include: 

• Difficulty regulating emotions and behaviors 
• Nightmares or flashbacks 
• Hypervigilance and heightened anxiety 
• Avoidance of situations or triggers that remind them of the traumatic event(s) 
• Low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness  
• Feelings of terror or fear 
• Physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches 

Teens might also lash out or seek refuge in unhealthy behaviors, like problematic gaming, substance use, or isolation. At Family First, we don’t treat these behaviors. We explore the underlying factors, like childhood trauma, to help our clients truly heal. 

Treatment for Childhood Trauma at Our Center 

Our comprehensive approach to childhood trauma treatment provides support for teens and families.  

For Teens 

Trauma-informed therapy approaches ensure that we prioritize our clients’ safety and comfort. Our team uses evidence-based practices like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). We also employ the NeuroAffective Relational Model® (NARM), one of the most effective therapeutic models for addressing complex trauma. 

Teens will also engage in activities that help them connect with themselves and build bonds with others. Exercising at our gym, paddleboarding on the intercoastal waterway, creating art, and going on adventures with our professionals allow teens to process their trauma in a safe environment. 

For Families 

Childhood trauma often stems from and impacts the family unit. Our team works closely with families to help them understand their teen’s behavior and provide support and guidance. Engaging in regular family therapy sessions and parental support groups can help families learn healthy communication and coping skills, leading to stronger relationships. 

Building and maintaining a healthy home environment is crucial for a teen’s long-term recovery. Through our family programming, we empower parents and guardians to create positive changes that promote their teen’s well-being. Additionally, we provide at least 12 months of aftercare support after program completion. 

Call Family First Adolescent Services for Childhood Trauma Treatment in Florida 

We invite you to get in touch with us to learn more about our childhood trauma treatment services or to schedule a consultation. Our team is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for teens, empowering them to excel academically, and preparing them for their future. We believe in community building, fun, therapeutic healing, and, most importantly, reconnecting teens and families. 

Call 888.904.5947 or contact Family First online now to get started.