Ascend Healthcare-Empress House

Ascend Healthcare-Empress House, located in Encino, California, is a residential treatment center for teens aged 12-17 struggling with mental health and addiction issues. The program, typically lasting 45-90 days, integrates evidence-based therapies, experiential therapies, and dedicated family therapy. Ascend's clinical approach empowers clients to actively engage in their well-being, focusing on the underlying issues that contribute to substance use and mental health challenges. The center is passionate about honoring each client's unique identity, with a strong LGBTQ+ inclusivity policy. Utilizing a Matrix Model, treatment at Empress House emphasizes individual therapy, early recovery, relapse prevention, family education, social support, and comprehensive testing. Evidence-based therapies include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), psychotherapy, meditation, and somatic experiencing. Clients receive a minimum of two private therapy sessions weekly and one individualized family session with a licensed therapist, alongside regular consultations with a psychiatrist. Beyond traditional clinical methods, Empress House offers a rich array of experiential mental health therapies to aid emotional expression and healthy life practices. These include art therapy, equine therapy, gardening, hiking, music therapy, yoga, and surf therapy. The home-like accommodations in Encino, California, feature unique amenities like dedicated staff, a private chef, basketball court, pool, classrooms, and garden spaces. Ascend Healthcare is accredited by The Joint Commission and accepts most private insurance, providing a nurturing and comprehensive environment for adolescent recovery.