Sunrise Residential Treatment Center has a long history of utilizing feedback-informed treatment to evaluate best practices and ensure long-term, positive outcomes. Dr. Brad Simpson, DSW, Director of Research and Development, recently analyzed data collected over the past five years. Clinical data is collected from the student and family unit throughout the treatment process at Sunrise, as well as the two years post-discharge, allowing for an inclusive measure of the student’s mental health and the overall health of the family unit.

For example, Sunrise found that students report significant improvement in impulse control difficulties, emotional awareness, and the ability to utilize emotional regulation strategies six months after admitting. However, the long-lasting positive outcomes are measured by how successful the student and the family will be when they return home. For example, of the more than 50% of students who display self-harming behaviors upon admission to Sunrise, 97% still no longer self-harm two years later. 

Dr Brad Simpson states, “Sunrise is a fully integrated DBT program utilizing evidence-based practice. Many programs use evidence-based practice, however, it is just as important to be sure we have practice-based evidence. This means we are achieving the expected outcomes of the evidence base in our context, level of care, and application of the evidence base. This is a critical component to the health of our program, families, and individual students. Just as is knowing the evidence tells me I will feel better when I exercise for 30 minutes each day. As I apply this in my own life and have a positive impact, I personally reap the benefits. We want this for all of our families and students to reap the benefits of quality and proven treatment.”

About Sunrise RTC

Sunrise is a residential treatment center for adolescent girls ages 13-17 aimed at uncovering the academic, social and emotional potential of girls who have been held back by emotional or behavioral struggles. Sunrise combines the warmth of a home, the safety and clinical expertise of a residential treatment program, and the community access of a transition program.