Youth Mental Health Services in Lowell, MA
PHP & IOP Programs
Structured care for children and teens seeking stability, skills, and support
When Your Child Needs More Than Outpatient Support in Lowell, MA.
It’s one of the hardest things for a parent or caregiver to face: your child is hurting, and current treatments don’t seem to be enough.
If you’re searching for youth mental health services near Lowell, MA, Direction Behavioral Health provides structured, intensive programs that go beyond weekly therapy. Our Nashua, NH, facility offers PHP and IOP treatment designed for youth with heightened mental health needs.
These programs support youth facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and more. Each day centers on group therapy and other healthy activities that help them connect with peers, build confidence, and practice tools for a healthier life now and into adulthood.
Why Families From Lowell, MA Choose Direction Behavioral Health
Here in New England and across the globe, the mental health concerns of children and teens are growing. The World Health Organization estimates that about one in seven adolescents ages 10–19 struggles with their mental health.
For many families, this means everyday challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or stress can quickly become overwhelming without the right support.
At Direction Behavioral Health, our model treats youth as whole people — not just a diagnosis. Each day blends group therapy, recreation, medication management, and creative activities. In this community setting, youth connect with peers, practice resilience, and apply skills in real life.
This “Wholistic” approach helps teens rebuild confidence, repair relationships, and carry tools into adulthood — preparing them to thrive, not just cope.
Our Programs for Youth With High Needs
Every youth at DBHA begins with PHP. Unlike residential programs, our PHP near Massachusetts allows youth to return home each evening, keeping them connected with family life while receiving intensive daytime support.
- Full weekday schedule (1–6 p.m)
- Daily group therapy and coping skills practice
- Psychiatric oversight and monitoring
- Recreation, movement, and creative outlets
- Balance of structure at DBHA and family time at home
Our PHP provides daily stability without removing youth from their families, making treatment part of everyday life.
After completing PHP, many youth move into IOP. This program provides more flexibility, allowing youth to attend school and resume extracurricular activities while continuing treatment. Youth live at home, reconnect with peers, and begin practicing skills in the real world with therapeutic support still in place.
- Weekday afternoons (3–6 p.m.)
- Continued group therapy and coping skill reinforcement
- Support for reintegration into school and peer life
- Ongoing psychiatric oversight
- Balance of independence and accountability
IOP helps youth re-enter school, friendships, and hobbies while maintaining the guidance and consistency needed to stay on track.
Continued Guidance With Aftercare & Parenting Groups
After PHP and IOP, Aftercare ensures youth and families remain supported as they transition forward. Parenting groups run alongside youth programs, helping caregivers reinforce the same skills at home.
- Evening groups (4:30–6 p.m.) for relapse prevention
- Parent and caregiver education groups
- Guidance for smoother re-entry into school and community life
- Resources and referrals for ongoing support
Aftercare extends progress beyond treatment, equipping families to continue growth at home and in the community.
Visual Schedule — At a Glance
- PHP: Weekdays, 1–6 p.m.
- IOP: Weekdays, 3–6 p.m.
- Aftercare: Weekdays, 4:30–6 p.m.
Real Voices, Real Change
Stories From Our Wholistic Youth Mental Health Treatment
Hearing from other parents and youth can make the journey feel less isolating. These voices reflect the safety, connection, and growth that families have experienced at Direction Behavioral Health.
“The group really helped me connect with people and manage my anger. I feel safe in the space provided for the members at Direction.”
Youth Participant
“Our experience at Direction gave us the gift of maintaining a relationship with our daughter — one that is now healthy and flourishing.
The additional twice-weekly counseling they provide for parents and caregivers has been a huge part of our success as a family. The concepts they encourage you to implement at home are simple, but the work is hard. It has taken a few years, and has definitely been worth our time and effort.”
Parent
“Direction was there for me as a teenager and into the start of my 20s. Without their help, I would lack many of the skills I need to deal with the world around me. The clinicians genuinely care and take the time to make sure things are done in a way that benefits the client. At Direction, I always felt like my needs came first.”
Former Youth Participant
Disorders We Support in Our Youth Programs
Youth mental health struggles look different for every child or teen. At Direction Behavioral Health, our programs are designed to meet a wide range of needs.
Each condition brings unique challenges, but none of them defines your child. Our wholistic, group-based model helps youth find connection, practice coping strategies, and build skills that support growth in daily life.
We’ve treated adolescents with:
FAQs for Parents and Professionals
Do you offer youth mental health services in Lowell, MA?
No, our programs are held at our Nashua, NH facility. Many families from Lowell and surrounding towns travel to us for PHP and IOP because of the level of structure and support we provide.
What is the difference between PHP and IOP for teens?
PHP is the first step, with daily sessions focused on stabilization. Youth return home each evening but step back from school during this stage. IOP comes next — shorter hours that allow teens to attend school, reconnect with friends, and continue practicing coping skills with strong support.
How do we start the intake process?
Families can call us directly or fill out a form online. Our team will explain the steps, answer questions, and determine if PHP is the right starting point for your child or teen.
A Clearer Path Forward for Youth and Families
Struggling with mental health doesn’t have to define your child’s story. With the right support, youth can rediscover what it feels like to laugh with friends, focus in school, and enjoy the simple joys of growing up.
Families searching for youth mental health services in Lowell, MA, find that Direction Behavioral Health offers structured programs that build lasting skills and confidence.
Your child deserves the chance to thrive — not just today, but for all the years ahead.