How does avoidant personality disorder display?
Youngsters who show avoidant behaviour often feel very anxious and insecure in friendships and relationships with their social environment. They find it challenging to express who they are and to be open to others. This creates a tendency to stand on the sidelines and see which way the prevailing opinion flows until they are sure they are accepted. Often, they are afraid to do or say anything wrong and are only concerned with how others perceive them. When they ask themselves this question, their conclusion is always negative. This avoidance can be the result of trauma, depression, a strong negative self-image or a history of being bullied.
Treatment of avoidant behaviour
We specialise in managing multiple problems (comorbidity) at Yes We Can Youth Clinics. Our intensive treatment programme helps young people manage avoidant behaviour and other challenges, so they can look forward to a bright future. Warmth, sincere attention and involvement are central to our approach.
At Yes We Can Youth Clinics, we are available 24/7 to provide warm and professional guidance. We help young people, whom we call ‘fellows’, address their challenges and regain the confidence to function well in society. We do not look at the ‘labels’ they have received in the past, but rather at their talents, qualities and possibilities. The clinical treatment programme lasts ten weeks. Our follow-up care programme continues to help and guide these young people in their recovery and further development. For example, finding a fulfilling way of life is essential.
Recognition
An essential part of treating avoidant behaviour takes place in groups. During group sessions led by an expert-by-experience counsellor, the fellows share their stories, provide feedback to one another, and set personal goals. These sessions offer a strong sense of recognition, since the fellows have the same problems the counsellors have overcome. This recognition gives the fellows confidence and the will to continue.
Types of treatment
During the treatment, a lot of attention is focused on the fellow’s family (systemic therapy). Parents follow our family coaching and counselling programme. The clinic has daily sports and outdoor activities where fellows work together, push boundaries and put their goals into practice. Behavioural therapy and skills training are also used during treatment. The fellows have several weekly one-on-one sessions with our psychiatrists and their regular therapists, who work closely with our other care professionals. This way, we always know how the fellows are doing and what they need.
Contact us
Yes We Can Youth Clinics can effectively treat teenagers and young adults who are suffering from a wide variety of mental health issues. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We cannot stress enough that we are always here for you, whether you choose to receive treatment at our clinic or not.
You can reach us by phone from Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (GMT +1) via phone number: +31 (0)85 02 01 222. Your call will be forwarded after business hours, on weekdays after 6:00 p.m. and on the weekends. Please note that it might take longer than usual to answer your call. If we cannot answer the call right away, please leave a message, and we will return your call as soon as possible. You can also fill out our contact form.
Register for an intake interview
Would you like to register a teenager or young adult (aged 13-25) for treatment at Yes We Can Youth Clinics? Please fill out our intake form, and we will contact you to schedule a personal intake interview.
Intake form