Parenting a teenager can be challenging, but when your teen’s behavior becomes uncontrollable, defiance, aggression, running away, substance use, or trouble with the law, it can leave you feeling helpless and overwhelmed.
If you’re asking yourself, “Where can I send my out of control teenager?” you’re not alone. Many parents seek professional support to help their troubled teens regain direction and stability.
At Adolescent Wellness Academy (AWA) in Miami, Florida, we provide structured therapeutic programs designed to support struggling teens and their families. This guide will explore the options available to parents, the benefits of professional intervention, and how our specialized programs for troubled teens can make a difference.
When considering where to send your out of control teenager, it’s important to choose a program that offers expert guidance, emotional support, and a clear path to healing.

Signs Your Troubled Teen May Need Professional Help
Recognizing when typical teenage rebellion crosses into dangerous or unmanageable behavior is key to knowing when outside intervention is needed. Some warning signs include:
Extreme Defiance and Rebellion
- Regularly disobeying rules at home and school
- Engaging in risky behaviors despite consequences
- Persistent lying or manipulation
Academic Decline
- Sudden drop in grades and lack of interest in school
- Skipping classes or getting expelled
- Frequent conflicts with teachers and peers
Substance Use and Risky Behavior
- Experimenting with drugs, alcohol, or vaping
- Reckless activities such as stealing, vandalism, or running away
- Unsafe sexual behavior
Mental Health Concerns
- Extreme mood swings, anger, or violent outbursts
- Signs of anxiety, depression, or self-harm
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
If your teen is exhibiting any of these behaviors, it may be time to consider professional treatment programs that provide structure, therapy, and the support needed for positive change.

Options for Parents: Where Can I Send My Out-of-Control Teenager?
Several types of programs are available to help out of control teens, each offering different levels of support and structure.
Therapeutic Boarding Schools
Therapeutic boarding schools provide structured, long-term care for teens with behavioral and emotional issues. They offer:
- Academic support alongside therapy
- A highly structured environment with 24/7 supervision
- Treatment plans that address emotional, social, and behavioral challenges
Residential Treatment Centers
Residential treatment centers provide intensive, live-in treatment for teens struggling with mental health issues, substance abuse, and behavioral problems. They offer:
- A secure environment with medical and therapeutic staff
- Individual and group therapy sessions
- A focus on emotional and behavioral healing
Wilderness Therapy Programs
These outdoor-based programs use nature and physical challenges to help troubled teens develop confidence, resilience, and self-awareness. They typically include:
- Outdoor survival skills and team-building exercises
- Therapy integrated into daily activities
- A break from negative influences at home
Military Schools
Military-style programs focus on discipline, structure, and accountability. They may work well for teens who need external motivation, but are not ideal for those with underlying mental health issues.
Programs for Troubled Teens at AWA
For families seeking a structured program without long-term separation, AWA offers evidence-based treatment programs for troubled teens, including:
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- An after-school program offering therapy 3-5 days per week
- Individual and group counseling with licensed therapists
- Family involvement to strengthen relationships
Therapeutic Day Treatment for Troubled Teens
- A full-day structured treatment program
- Comprehensive mental health support with a focus on emotional and behavioral regulation
- Support for school reintegration and academic success
How AWA Helps Troubled Teens
At AWA, we believe in addressing the root causes of a teen’s struggles rather than just managing symptoms. Our programs for troubled teens incorporate:
- Individualized Therapy: Each teen receives a tailored treatment plan that focuses on their unique challenges.
- Family Involvement: We provide family therapy and support to rebuild trust and improve communication.
- Holistic Healing: Our approach includes mindfulness, physical wellness, and emotional regulation techniques to promote long-term success.
- Academic Support: We help teens catch up on schoolwork and develop strategies for educational success.
When considering where to send your out-of-control teenager, it’s crucial to find a program that provides not just discipline, but also therapy, family involvement, and a path to long-term recovery.
At AWA, we combine all these essential elements to create an environment where teens can heal and grow.
The Benefits of Professional Treatment
Seeking professional help for your troubled teen can:
- Improve family relationships and communication
- Help teens develop healthy coping mechanisms
- Provide structure and accountability
- Reduce risky behaviors and prevent long-term consequences
Take the Next Step
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and asking, “Where can I send my out-of-control teenager?” know that you don’t have to face this challenge alone.
AWA’s compassionate team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs designed to support troubled teens in Miami, Florida.
About the Author

Kimberly Carlesi
Therapist