Inpatient Adolescent LGBTQIA Program
Some children need extra help when their gender or sexual identity affects their mental health.
LGBTQIA Youth Mental Health at Lincoln Prairie: Why Choose Us?
We provide short-term, structured care with group sessions that help LGBTQIA youth build confidence and resilience.
Inpatient mental health for LGBTQIA youth helps children and teens up to age 17. At Lincoln Prairie Behavioral Center, we provide compassionate support that helps your child work through challenges related to identity, emotions or relationships. Families across Illinois turn to us because our services are built around the unique needs of children and teens.
Highlights of our program include:
- Inclusive approach: Staff undergo training on using inclusive, affirming language, including appropriate pronouns and respecting each person’s identity. This helps create a space where youth can talk openly about LGBTQIA concerns that affect them or someone close to them.
- Sense of belonging: Group therapy for LGBTQIA youth explores tolerance, acceptance and family relationships. These focused conversations allow your child to share their experiences, connect with others and feel understood.
- Family-focused support: We stay in touch with you throughout your child’s stay, encouraging you to ask questions, share concerns and stay involved. We understand that not all families are in the same place when it comes to gender identity or sexual orientation. Staff help bridge those gaps with sensitivity toward everyone involved.
Inpatient Mental Health for LGBTQIA Youth: What to Expect
Your child receives child- and teen-centered programming from our inpatient mental health services. Treatment includes individual and group therapy, weekday schooling and fun activities, like visits from miniature ponies.
We also offer special group therapy sessions focused on the needs of LGBTQIA youth and advocates. Topics may include:
- Identity and self-acceptance
- Coping with rejection or bullying
- Healthy communication
- Resilience and self-worth
- Building support networks
- Setting boundaries
Is the LGBTQIA Program Right for My Child?
Our services are for LGBTQIA youth who need space to tend to their emotional health. We provide a comforting environment that respects your child’s identity and lifestyle while helping them move forward.
The LGBTQIA program at Lincoln Prairie cares for children up to age 17 who:
- Identify as LGBTQIA and need help with emotional or behavioral challenges
- Are exploring or questioning their gender identity or sexual orientation
- Have anxiety, depression or trauma related to lack of acceptance at home or school
- Are navigating bullying, rejection or social isolation due to gender expression or sexual orientation
- Experience tension at home or school related to being part of the LGBTQIA community
- Have close friends or family who are LGBTQIA and want to better support them
Get Help Now
Call 217-585-1180 to schedule a no-cost and confidential mental health intake assessment. For non-urgent inquiries, you can also start the process by sending us a message.
