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Step-By-Step Checklist for Selecting a Residential Treatment Center

Phase 1: Pre-Search Preparation

☐ Obtain updated psychological evaluation
☐ Obtain Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
☐ Gather medical records
☐ List all medications and past reactions
☐ Document behavioral history
☐ Identify triggers
☐ Identify trauma history
☐ Clarify your goals (safety? independence? stabilization?)

Phase 2: Facility Verification

☐ Verify state licensing
☐ Check accreditation (Joint Commission, CARF, etc.)
☐ Review state inspection reports
☐ Ask for abuse/incident history
☐ Confirm insurance acceptance
☐ Request written restraint policy
☐ Request grievance policy
☐ Review discharge planning policy

Phase 3: Staffing & Credentialing

☐ Confirm BCBA involvement (if behavioral program)
☐ Verify psychiatrist credentials
☐ Confirm RN coverage (24/7 or part-time?)
☐ Ask about direct care staff training hours
☐ Ask about CPI or de-escalation training
☐ Confirm background checks for staff

Phase 4: Environment Review

☐ Tour bedrooms
☐ Tour common areas
☐ Observe staff-resident interactions
☐ Assess cleanliness
☐ Evaluate sensory environment
☐ Ask about safety modifications

Phase 5: Treatment Planning

☐ Confirm individualized treatment plan
☐ Ensure measurable goals
☐ Confirm family involvement
☐ Confirm transition planning
☐ Clarify expected length of stay

Phase 6: Financial Clarity

☐ Confirm daily rate
☐ Confirm insurance coverage
☐ Ask about hidden fees
☐ Clarify transportation costs
☐ Clarify medication costs

Phase 7: Transition Planning

☐ Ask how they prepare residents for discharge
☐ Ask about vocational support
☐ Ask about community reintegration
☐ Confirm aftercare coordination

Essential Documents to Request

Copy of license
Accreditation certificate
Staff credential list
Restraint/seclusion data report
Incident reporting protocol
Parent handbook
Sample daily schedule
Sample behavior plan
Emergency evacuation plan

Final Gut Check

Before signing:

Do they respect your young adult?
Do they speak about residents with dignity?
Are they trauma-informed?
Do they avoid punishment-based approaches?
Is data collected and shared?

The right placement feels structured, safe, accountable, and collaborative.