Ascend Healthcare-Empress House

Ascend Healthcare is a residential treatment center for teens ages 12-17 struggling with mental health and addiction issues. Ascend Healthcare provides a 45-90 day program that includes evidence-based therapies, experiential therapies, family therapy, and a unique clinical approach to help the client succeed. Their clinical approach to mental health empowers the client to take control of the healing journey and encourages them to actively engage in well-being. Using a Matrix Model, Ascend focuses on individual therapy, early recovery, relapse prevention, family education, social support, and testing. The Ascend staff is devoted to treating the underlying issues contributing to substance use and mental health challenges. Treatment includes evidence-based therapies such as CBT, EMDR, psychotherapy, mediation, and somatic experiencing. In addition to the clinically tested therapies, they also provide experiential mental health therapy to aid in emotional expression, symptom-relief, and the building of healthy life practices. Examples of these treatments can include art therapy, equine therapy, gardening, hiking, music therapy, yoga, and surf therapy.

Clients have a minimum of 2 private therapy sessions per week and 1 individualized family session per week with a licensed therapist. Clients also see the Ascend psychiatrist a minimum of 1 time per week during the duration of their treatment. As a program with a strong LGBTQ+ inclusivity policy, Ascend is passionate about honoring each client's unique identity and experience.

Located in Encino, California, Ascend Healthcare offers home-like accommodations with a number of unique amenities to help the client recover. These amenities include dedicated, around the clock staff, a private chef, basketball court, a pool, classrooms with computer stations, and garden space for peace and quiet. Ascend Healthcare is accredited by the Joint Commission and accepts most price insurance.