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Located in Woodland Hills, Evolve’s neuroaffirming residential program supports autistic teens (ages 12-17) facing mental health challenges. In our intimate 6-bed home, we adapt evidence-based DBT and CBT to honor your teen's sensory needs, allowing them to heal safely without masking.

About Our Center

Neuroaffirming Residential Program Located in Woodland Hills, CA, this specialized program serves autistic teens facing mental health or substance use challenges. We recognize that autism is an integral part of who your teen is, never something that needs to be \'fixed.\' Instead of trying to change them, we deliver Evolve’s evidence-based care fully adapted to their sensory, communication, and processing needs. Guided by neurodiversity experts, our environment allows teens to safely engage in treatment without the pressure to mask. This residential level of care supports adolescents ages 12 to 17. To maintain a highly individualized and focused environment, the home accommodates a maximum of just 6 teens at a time, with an average length of stay of 45 to 60 days. A Comprehensive Continuum of Care Evolve offers a full continuum of care, including residential treatment across California, partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP), and virtual services. Our residential programs combine individual, group, and family therapy with psychiatry, experiential therapies (art, surf, equine), and daily academic support. Evidence-Based, Individualized Treatment Our treatment model is rooted in evidence-based approaches, emphasizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). We provide adherent DBT skills training for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness, while integrating modalities like Motivational Interviewing and SMART Recovery. Every teen receives a customized, multidisciplinary treatment plan. Adapted, Accessible Clinical Therapy Therapies like DBT only work when they are accessible. For our neuroaffirming track, we tailor clinical care to each teen\'s unique neurotype. Clinical Adaptations Include: * Clear, direct language and visual supports to break down complex concepts * Extra processing time and individual instruction when groups feel overwhelming * Supporting stimming and sensory regulation as valid forms of participation * Weekly sensory regulation groups led by an Occupational Therapist Safe, Sensory-Informed Environments With a 3:1 client-to-staff ratio, Evolve provides 24/7 safety and individualized care. Our neuroaffirming homes balance predictability with flexibility to prevent overwhelm and support regulation. Sensory Adaptations Include: * Environment: Dimmable lighting, reduced echo, noise-canceling options, and the removal of strong scents. * Regulation Room: Dedicated spaces equipped with projectors, bubble tubes, and weighted blankets for soothing or stimulation. * Diet & Academics: Chef-prepared safe foods and specialized school spaces featuring sensory-friendly seating.