Acute Partial Hospitalization Program for Children

This intensive short-term therapeutic program is designed for children and teens ages 4-18 a mental health, emotional or psychiatric challenge that is significantly impacting the child's life. Students can receive services up to age 21 if they are in school and have an IEP. 

Services are provided in a modern, spacious facility conveniently located at 4176 West Ridge Road in Erie, PA, 16506. The program has been developed to prevent out-of-home placement, reduce recurring crises and keep children in the least restrictive environment while making progress toward recovery.  

Key Program Features

• Medication management by an on-site psychiatrist.
• Master’s level therapists and bachelor’s level classroom staff. 
• Therapeutic support incorporating applied behavioral analysis with elements of evidence and research-based therapy models including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, social thinking, and family inspired therapy.
• Group, individual and family therapy.
• All staff receive training in safe crisis management.
• Intensive therapy schedule with one hour of educational services daily.
• A strong family therapy component that reflects our belief that children are more successful at reaching their goals with the involvement and support of their families. 

About the Facility

The program is held in a comfortable, contemporary facility tailored to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children and teens facing serious mental health challenges. Features include:

• Rooms that are tailored for all age groups
• A “specials” room for therapeutic activities
• A large recreation area on the ground floor
• An outdoor deck and fenced play area with a playground
• Private conference room for family and team meetings
• A designated office for psychiatric meetings
• Designated rooms for family, individual, and group therapy

Beginning Treatment

An individualized treatment plan is created for each child with input from the psychiatrist, family, and school district. The plan includes goals to be monitored during daily therapeutic activities, as well as individualized components such as family or trauma-based sessions.

The Children’s Acute Partial Hospitalization Program is open year-round, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.