For Parents and Families

For Parents and Families

Specialized Mental Healthcare for Children and Teens

Bradley Hospital is a nationally recognized psychiatric hospital dedicated exclusively to the care of children and adolescents. The hospital provides expert, compassionate mental health care for young people – from early childhood through adolescence – while offering families the support, education, and resources they need throughout the treatment process.

Facing a mental health concern as a child or teen can be an overwhelming experience. Bradley Hospital offers expert evaluation and treatment for a wide range of emotional and behavioral conditions in young people, including but not limited to:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety and panic disorders
  • ADHD
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Autism spectrum disorders with behavioral challenges
  • Trauma-related conditions
  • Suicidal thoughts and self-harming behaviors

Services are available at multiple levels of care to meet the needs of each child and their family:

These programs are designed specifically for mental health in adolescence and childhood, with age-appropriate support and evidence-based care.

For Patients and Families

Download the Patient and Family Information Guide:

In English

In Spanish

Family and Caregiver Involvement and Support

Bradley Hospital understands that mental health care involves the whole family, not just the child receiving treatment. Family-focused services are designed to support parents, caregivers, and siblings every step of the way.

Family services include:

  • Personalized consultations with clinical staff
  • Emergency evaluations through the Access Center
  • Ongoing guidance and advocacy from a family liaison
  • Recommendations for school-based services or special education programs
  • Assistance with accessing community-based support resources
  • Family support groups
  • Participation in the Family Advisory Council, which provides a space for caregivers to share feedback and work with staff to enhance the care experience

These services empower families to be fully engaged in the treatment process and better equipped to support their child at home and in the community.

What to Expect

Families new to Bradley Hospital can expect a warm, welcoming environment where care is tailored to each child’s age, symptoms, and strengths. Clinicians work closely with families to create treatment plans that reflect each child’s needs and the family’s goals.

Services are delivered by a multidisciplinary team that includes child and adolescent psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and other specialists in pediatric mental health.

Recognizing When to Seek Help

Many children and teens experience emotional or behavioral struggles at some point, but when symptoms interfere with daily life, relationships, or safety, professional help may be needed. Common signs of a mental health issue in children or teens include:

  • Persistent sadness, withdrawal, or irritability
  • Sudden changes in behavior or personality
  • Anxiety or constant worry
  • Aggressive behavior or frequent outbursts
  • Trouble at school or a drop in academic performance
  • Loss of interest in usual activities
  • Talking about death, self-harm, or suicide

Early intervention is key. Bradley Hospital offers timely evaluations and treatment options to help children and families get the support they need.

Bradley Hospital