No two residents are the same. Therefore, we prefer not to place residents into generic groups based on a general diagnosis. Instead, our residents participate in clinical subgroups that deal with issues relating to mood, behavioral control, and optimal real-life functioning. The treatment team considers a wide range of criteria to determine the group placement for each resident.

Clinical criteria for group placement:

• Communication style and ability
• Developmental level
• Cognitive functioning
• Psychiatric diagnosis
• Motivation and cooperation
• Age and gender

Following the treatment team's review of the criteria listed above, the resident is assigned to the clinical sub-group best suited for their unique symptoms and strengths. Sub-groups typically have four or five residents, and every attempt is made to place them together in the same dormitory bedroom with its own private bathroom. Specially trained staff members work with the same sub-groups over time, assuring consistency in treatment and familiarity between staff and patients.

The beauty of NDA is that the sub-groupings are not set in stone. In fact, the treatment team may opt to move a resident from one sub-group to another based on how they are doing at any given point in time.

• Residential Program
• The Charter School
• Specialized Programs
• Community Outreach