Now Open: Neuroaffirming Residential Treatment for Autistic Teens

New Neuroaffirming Program for Autistic Teens

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Teen Neuroaffirming Residential Treatment in Woodland Hills, CA

Mental Health & Substance Use Treatment for Autistic Teens Ages 12–17

Residential Treatment Center (RTC)

Evolve’s Woodland Hills Neuroaffirming Residential Program provides 24/7 mental health and substance use treatment exclusively for autistic teens. Designed by experts in autism, adolescent mental health, and neuroaffirming care, this unique program is one of the few residential treatment programs in the nation created specifically to meet the needs of autistic adolescents. This level of care is designed for teens who need safety monitoring, robust clinical support, and time away from daily stressors to focus on recovery.

Our neuroaffirming approach does not seek to treat or change autism itself. Instead, we provide evidence-based care for co-occurring mental health, substance use, and behavioral concerns, with treatment adapted to each teen’s sensory, communication, and regulation needs. Serving families throughout the San Fernando Valley, across California, and nationwide, the program helps autistic teens stabilize, build coping skills, and make lasting progress.

Small program size (up to 6 teens)
Typical length of stay: 45–60 days
24/7 supervision and support

Weekly Services Include

About Our Woodland Hills Residential Home

Our Woodland Hills residential facility is a modern 4,969 square foot home set on a private, gated 3.31 acre estate, designed to provide a safe and effective environment for our Neuroaffirming Program. The home has been thoughtfully adapted to support autistic teens’ sensory and regulation needs, including dimmable lighting, reduced echo, and a dedicated sensory regulation room. Dedicated therapy spaces, a school room, and comfortable bedrooms support both the clinical and daily living needs of each teen in this small, six teen program.

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Evolve Woodland Hills Care Team

Teens at our Woodland Hills location are supported by a multidisciplinary care team including psychiatrists, therapists, nursing staff, residential counselors, academic coordinators, and clinical leadership. The team collaborates closely to ensure consistent, individualized care throughout treatment.

At our Woodland Hills location, clinical leadership work closely with the entire team to provide individualized care throughout treatment. This includes:

“The Woodland Hills facility is comprised of a team of individuals who cultivate a culture of safety, respect, kindness, and fun! The team that we have at Woodland Hills is constantly striving to grow and learn so that we can continue to serve the clients we care for.”

- Ellen Urtecho

Evolve Woodland Hills Location

Evolve’s Neuroaffirming Program is located in a quiet hillside neighborhood within Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley, with easy access to scenic trails, Ventura Boulevard, and LA’s broader cultural and recreational offerings. The setting offers privacy and a calm, low stimulation environment, separated from everyday stressors while remaining close to the greater Los Angeles area. While our Woodland Hills location serves families throughout the San Fernando Valley and Southern California, Evolve is committed to supporting autistic teens and families from across the nation seeking a program specifically designed for them.

Evolve's Neuroaffirming Program Values Your Teen's Safety

Safety is a priority at Evolve. Our Neuroaffirming Program in Woodland Hills follows established safety protocols, staffing standards, and clinical oversight practices, including enhanced staffing for in-the-moment regulation support, to help autistic teens feel secure throughout treatment.

Licensing & Accreditation

Evolve is licensed by the California Department of Social Services, CCLD and accredited by The Joint Commission and CARF, reflecting our commitment to quality and safety standards.

Monitoring & Supervision

Line-of-sight and line-of-hearing practices, along with cameras, help maintain a safe and structured environment for teens and staff.

Staffing Ratios

High staff-to-teen ratios allow for personalized care, with one-to-one supervision available when clinically appropriate.

Overnight Safety

Overnight protocols include awake staff, routine bed checks, monitoring systems with sensor stickers, and line-of-sight supervision of bedroom doors to support safety during rest hours.

Protective Environment

Potentially dangerous items are secured, and regular safety checks are conducted to maintain a protective setting.

24/7 Staffing & Clinical Access

Trained counselors are present around the clock, with licensed clinicians and psychiatric support available 24/7.

Evolve Woodland Hills Clinical Approach

Evolve’s Neuroaffirming Program combines our core evidence-based residential treatment model with care guided by the Neurodiversity Model. The environment, daily structure, communication, and clinical approach are thoughtfully adapted to support autistic teens. Explore the full program approach to learn how these adaptations help teens engage more fully in treatment and benefit from care.

Learn more about neuroaffirming treatment

How We Approach Substance Use Treatment

For teens struggling with substance use or addiction, Evolve incorporates SMART Recovery, a science-based approach rooted in CBT. SMART Recovery helps teens build motivation, cope with urges, manage thoughts and emotions, and develop healthier behaviors that support lasting change. When clinically indicated, teens may also receive additional recovery coaching sessions to provide more individualized support throughout treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services are included in the Neuroaffirming Program at Woodland Hills?

Our Neuroaffirming Program includes psychiatry and nursing support, individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, individualized treatment planning, DBT skills training adapted for autistic teens, sensory regulation support led by an Occupational Therapist, academic support, and aftercare planning.

Length of stay varies based on clinical need, but teens in our Neuroaffirming program in Woodland Hills typically stay between 45 and 60 days.

Yes. Teens continue their education through structured academic time in our on-site school room, supported by a dedicated Academic Coordinator. We work with families and schools to keep students engaged and on track.

Yes. Evolve works with most private insurance plans on both an in-network and out-of-network basis. Our admissions team can help verify benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs before your teen starts care.

Click here to verify your insurance

We recommend comfortable, age-appropriate clothing, necessary prescription medications, personal items, and any school materials. Exact packing guidelines will be provided before admission, and we’re happy to discuss sensory-related items your teen may want to bring.

Residential treatment is a higher level of care designed for teens who need structure and daily therapeutic support beyond outpatient services. Our free pre-admission assessment helps determine whether the Neuroaffirming Program is the most appropriate fit for your teen.

This treatment center was structured, positive and constructive for my teenager. Practical methods and processes were taught, besides teaching them self love/care and mindfulness.

Former Evolve Parent

Understanding the Admissions Process

Getting started doesn’t have to feel complicated. We’ll help you take it one step at a time.

STEP 1

Reach Out to Connect

Connect with an admissions coordinator to discuss your teen’s needs, treatment options, and insurance coverage.

Complimentary Assessment

A free pre-admission assessment helps determine the appropriate level of care. If our program is not the right fit, referrals will be provided.

STEP 2
STEP 3

Beginning Care in Woodland Hills

Once admitted, your teen is welcomed to the Woodland Hills location and supported through intake and the start of treatment.

Take the Next Step

If you’re exploring residential mental health or substance use treatment for your autistic teen, our Neuroaffirming Program in Woodland Hills serves families nationwide. Our admissions team can walk you through your options and help determine whether this program is the right fit for your teen.