33 Must-Ask Questions When Interviewing a Residential Treatment Center
​Bring this list with you. Ask directly. Document answers.
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Clinical & Behavioral Care
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What is your primary treatment model? (ABA, CBT, trauma-informed, etc.)
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Do you complete a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)?
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How are behavior intervention plans created?
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What is your staff-to-resident ratio?
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Do you provide 1:1 staffing when needed?
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How are aggressive behaviors handled?
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What is your crisis protocol?
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Restraint & Safety Policies (CRITICAL)
8. Do you use physical restraint?
9. Under what exact circumstances?
10. What type of restraint techniques are used?
11. Are restraints documented and reported to families?
12. Do you use seclusion rooms?
13. How often were restraints used in the past 12 months?
If answers feel vague — that’s a red flag.
Medical & Psychiatric Oversight
14. Is there an on-site psychiatrist?
15. How frequently are medications reviewed?
16. Do you coordinate with outside providers?
17. How are medication side effects monitored?
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Staff Qualifications
18. Are staff trained in autism-specific care?
19. What certifications do behavior specialists hold?
20. What is your annual staff turnover rate?
21. How long has your leadership team been in place?
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Family Involvement
22. How often will we receive updates?
23. Are families included in treatment planning?
24. Is family therapy offered?
25. What are visitation policies?
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Daily Living & Quality of Life
26. What does a typical day look like?
27. Are residents allowed community outings?
28. How are social skills practiced?
29. What vocational programs are offered?
Outcomes & Transparency
30. What measurable outcomes do you track?
31. What percentage of residents transition successfully?
32. May I speak to a current parent?
33. Have you had any state violations?
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How to Know It’s a Good Fit?
You should feel:
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Welcomed
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Not rushed
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Clear answers provided
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Transparent documentation shared
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Respect for your young adult
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No minimizing of your concerns
If something feels off — trust that instinct.
