FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Treatment, Transitional Living,
and More
Admissions & Young Adult Clients
What types of young adults are a good fit for Cornerstones of Maine?
We support young adults (ages 18-30) who are bright, capable, and motivated for change but need structure, guidance, and support to move toward independence. Our program is ideal for those struggling with executive functioning challenges, social anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, or a history of setbacks in school or work.
Who would not be a good fit for the program?
While we strive to be inclusive, we are not a clinical match for individuals with active psychosis requiring hospitalization, severe eating disorders, severe substance use disorder requiring detox, aggressive behaviors, or active self-harm that requires 24/7 medical monitoring.
Do clients need to have completed a previous treatment program before coming to Cornerstones?
Not necessarily. While many of our clients have attended therapy, intensive outpatient, residential treatment, or wilderness programs, others are transitioning directly from home after facing challenges in school, work, or relationships.
What does the admissions process look like?
First, start the conversation. Reach out to our team through a phone call, message, or chat here on our website. We’ll listen to your story and help you begin to decide which level of our program could be right for you or your loved one. After an initial consultation, we’ll review clinical and educational history as needed to get the full picture. Virtual or in-person tours are available, and we can collaborate with referring professionals as needed. Finally, we’ll walk you through any financial obligations and enrollment logistics to make the intake process smooth and welcoming.
Young Adult Programs: Daily Life & Structure
What does a typical day look like in the program?
Structured scheduling is an important therapeutic tool for many of our clients. By simulating a "9-to-5" schedule with free time on weekends, we can help clients work towards an independent life and career.
While at Cornerstones, every client’s schedule is built to match their needs, goals, and progress. Each day is a custom balance of structured clinical support, practical skill-building, and real-life experiences in the therapeutic milieu. Schedules may include:
- Group meetings on useful topics like budgeting, cooking, or time management
- Individual therapy sessions
- Clinically supervised group therapy
- Academic support
- Vocational coaching
- Outdoor activities like surfing or kayaking
- Wellness activities
- And More
How much free time do clients have?
Structured scheduling is an important therapeutic tool for many of our clients. However, they gain more autonomy and flexibility as they move through the program and demonstrate an ability to manage responsibility and commitments.
Are clients required to work or attend school while in the program?
When you're enrolled in our Residential Treatment Center, you'll focus on intensive therapy, which means you won't be able to work or attend school during this time. However, in our Transitional Living Program, as you're getting closer to living independently, things like school, jobs, and volunteer work become really important. We strongly encourage these activities as they play a key role in your path to independence. We’ll be there to support you every step of the way as you figure out what works best for you.
What happens if a client struggles to meet expectations?
Cornerstones of Maine believes that behavior changes through support, encouragement, and learning—not punishment. When a client is struggling, we work together to identify their current challenges and build solutions to overcome them. Successes and setbacks are equally valuable as learning opportunities.
Residential Treatment Center & Young Adult Transitional Living Community
Do clients have roommates?
Sharing rooms helps clients build social skills, communication, and accountability. However, private rooms may be available on a case-by-case basis.
Are meals provided?
Meal planning and preparation are essential life skills—and ones we help clients cultivate. Each week, clients grocery shop, cook, and eat together. Staff members support them in this process and offer nutrition education as needed.
How does the program help clients learn to build social connections?
Our entire community was built to encourage and help clients learn skills for healthy relationships. Clients live together, learn together, and engage in group activities, all while receiving supportive guidance regarding social skills, boundaries, and communication strategies.
What is the age range of the household?
Typically 18-22, but we will consider residents up to age 30. The average resident age in the program is 21.
What is the typical length of stay?
How often is the house supervised by staff?
All houses are staffed 24-7, with sleep-in staff at night.
Can a client have a phone and computer?
At our Transitional Living Program, clients are allowed to bring their own cell phone and laptop computer. There is daily structure related to technology use, and access can have increased limitations if use is complicating a client’s progress. At the Residential Treatment Center, we do not allow phones or computers. By eliminating tech, we encourage face-to-face interactions, mental clarity, and time for self-reflection. This shift will help young adults focus on personal progress, build stronger connections, and create a more productive, supportive environment.
How much independence and autonomy does each client have?
We are an individualized, client-centered program. Upon admission, each client has an individualized program that will dictate their level of independence and autonomy.
Can clients bring cars?
Yes.
Are you LGBTQIA+ friendly?
Yes. We provide all-gender accommodations that are LGBTQIA+ affirming. We also have weekly gender-inclusive, sex-positive education.
Is medication management available?
Yes. Our psychiatric providers work closely with clients to provide medication management as needed, ensuring that all treatment decisions are collaborative and individualized.
Neurodivergent-Affirming Care
What is neurodivergent-affirming care?
Neurodivergence should be valued and supported. Our neurodivergent-affirming transitional living program helps clients learn skills to build relationships, pursue education, achieve career goals, and thrive in independent living — all while celebrating their natural strengths.
Our Neurodivergent-Affirming Track (Rubedo) is unique in that it provides tailored support for these young adults with ASD, ADHD, NVLD, and executive functioning challenges, including:
- A dedicated neurodivergent-affirming residence
- Sensory-friendly environments
- An on-site occupational therapist and executive functioning coaching
- Social skills training and more
Paying for Residential Treatment and Transitional Living
Do you accept insurance?
Our residential treatment center can accept out of network benefits. Our transitional living program is a private pay program. We do support insurance reimbursement for our clinical services. We can provide superbills for monthly program costs related to direct clinical services.
Can clients bring money?
We provide restrictions on what clients can bring and how much their families can support them financially. This enables us to build a successful budgeting program for our clients.
We’re Here to Help
Have other questions that you don’t see listed here? Our team of young adult experts is standing by to help you find the clarity, support, and confidence you need to move forward.