RICA Baltimore (the Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents) is a Maryland Department of Health program that provides residential and day treatment services for adolescents with emotional disabilities. On the Maryland Department of Health’s RICA Baltimore information pages, the residential program is described as serving up to 45 adolescents, with an age range of approximately 11–17.6 years.

RICA’s materials describe a client-centered approach that is family-driven and youth-guided. Residential treatment at this level is typically considered when a young person is experiencing ongoing emotional or behavioral dysregulation and community-based services have not been sufficient to meet needs. Caregivers evaluating a state-operated RTC may want to ask about referral pathways, eligibility criteria, and how educational services are integrated alongside treatment.

The program also notes that it operates year-round. In a 24/7 residential setting, treatment commonly includes structured routines, therapeutic groups, individualized clinical support, and coordination with families and schools. Families can ask how treatment goals are set, how progress is measured, and what supports are recommended after discharge.

For Maryland families and referral sources looking for an adolescent residential option in the Baltimore area, RICA Baltimore is one program to consider. Review the official Maryland Department of Health pages for the most current admissions process and program details.