The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
We generally only cite government and peer-reviewed studies
Scientific claims and data are backed by qualified sources
Content is updated to ensure we are citing the most up-to-date data and information
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
At Nexus Teen Academy, we offer a compassionate, structured group home alternative for adolescent boys and girls aged 12–17 in the Phoenix area. Unlike traditional adolescent group homes, Nexus Teen Academy provides teenage mental health and substance abuse treatment in a home-like environment that feels safe, welcoming, and not like a locked-up mental facility.
We partner with most major private insurance plans and help families get out-of-network approval when needed-especially because there are so few specialized treatment centers for teens in the Valley.”
Meritain Health
Cigna Healthcare
Aetna
GEHA
UMR
Why Parents Choose Nexus Teen Academy Residential Treatment for Teens in Phoenix
Our teen residential treatment center is a group home-like space where your teen boy or girl can heal, grow, and rediscover hope—with the support of a passionate clinical team dedicated to lasting transformation.
Our program includes:
1:1 Therapy Sessions (Multiple per week)
Personalized Healing Plans
Academic Support During Treatment
Family-Centered Healing
Group Therapy for connection & psychoeducation
Evidence-Based Modalities: CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Care, ACT
Life Skill Building: Cooking, gardening, cleaning, and time management
Holistic Wellness Activities: Equine therapy, art interventions, mindfulness, and more
A teen group home is a residential care facility or supervised living space where a small group of teenagers lives together under supervision.
It provides a stable and supportive living environment, promotes social interaction, and helps teens develop basic life skills.
Teen group homes can be state-run or privately managed, co-ed or same-sex, and the quality of care varies significantly.
Limitations of Traditional Group Homes
A. Lack of Specialized Care: Group homes typically offer basic therapy but are often ill-equipped to treat complex mental health, behavioral health, or substance abuse issues. Basic therapy may not be sufficient for complex issues.
B. Limited Individual Attention: Due to limited staffing, traditional group homes struggle to provide the personalized attention required by troubled teens.
C. Insufficient Educational Support: Academic assistance is often minimal or bare-bones, potentially leading to significant educational setbacks.
D. Basic Skills Training Only: Provides fundamental life skills, but may fail to offer the comprehensive training needed for teens facing severe challenges.
Best RTC in Phoenix: The Specialized Alternative For Group Homes For Teens
For families in Phoenix seeking a more structured and clinically intensive approach without sacrificing the warmth of a close-knit, home-like environment. Nexus Teen Academy offers a true alternative to traditional group homes. We offer gender-specific treatment programs, including male and female separate houses, to ensure that your teen gets the best treatment possible.
Culinary Experience: Features an executive chef and weekly cooking classes, offering activities that help teens learn skills and find joy.
Holistic Environment: The facility is designed to provide a tranquil place to open up and heal, helping teens increase hope and redirect personal trajectories.
B. Integrated Support Services (Complete Program for Success):
Academic Services:Provides dedicated academic support to keep teens engaged, including accommodating online schooling and helping residents through their courses.
Medication Services:Expert oversight and comprehensive medication management.
Holistic Healing: Comprehensive careaddressing both mental and physical health needs.
C. Experiential/Activities (NTA Specific)
We provide therapies that meet action through enjoyable activities such as weekly Equine Therapy, regular outings (e.g., Odyssey Aquarium, cat cafes), and in-house activities like building Legos and diamond art.
Nexus Teen Academy: The Best Alternative to Group Home for Teens in Phoenix
Healing Happens Here: Inside Our Phoenix Facility
Female Group Home Alternative Located in Cave Creek, Arizona (Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Maricopa County)
Our peaceful desert campus provides:
Beautiful and private home environment
Separate sleeping areas for boys and girls
Game rooms, common areas, and outdoor space
Chef-prepared meals
Daily structure with love and accountability
1. Physical Address (Cave Creek): Located at 2695 E Saddle Mountain Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 2. Regional Accessibility: Convenient access for residents of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding Maricopa County areas. 3. Environment: Nestled in the beauty of the Arizona desert, providing a safe, private, and comfortable healing environment.
Our Team
Dedicated staff members, including a Director of Community Relations, work to raise awareness about teen mental health challenges, dispel stigma, and forge vital community connections.
Hannah has been with Nexus since day one, initially joining as the Clinical Director before moving into the Chief Operating Officer role. Her clinical expertise and management skills will help Nexus grow into not only a place for healing for teens but an
Dr. White is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who holds a Doctorate in Social Work and has experience working with adolescents and families across diverse clinical settings. She is passionate about helping teens feel understood, supported, and capable of
Ashley is passionate about supporting teens' social, emotional, and academic growth at Nexus. As a former director of theatre and teen programs, she developed liberal arts residential summer camps for Mount Holyoke College and Bryn Mawr College.
Alex is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience supporting children and teens in crisis centers, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. She holds a nursing degree from Northern Arizona University and a doctorate from the University of
Chef Melissa is the Director of Food Operations at Nexus Teen Academy. Melissa Stockmar’s love and connection with food began at the age of 15. Growing up in the Midwest, every meal was treated as an important opportunity to spend time together with family and
Joe Gilmore is the Director of Marketing at Nexus, where he leads digital outreach and content development to connect families with mental health care.
Family involvement is required and is a major part of the RTC ethos, ensuring the teen transitions home to a healthier environment. A dedicated Family Therapist works with families to identify relational patterns and develop pathways toward familial healing. Your teen’s transformation depends on family healing, too. That’s why we offer:
Weekly family therapy with licensed therapists
Saturday Family Empowerment Group
Ongoing communication through a secure family portal
Custom family healing strategies for long-term stability
Admissions Process
Enrollment is a simple 3-step process that starts with a single call.
A thoughtful Discharge Plan is developed with the family to transition the teen to the next level of care (such as Adolescent IOP). Staff often provide support even after discharge, assisting with transitions to aftercare programs. We create custom Discharge & Aftercare Plans to ensure success post-treatment:
Adolescent IOP transition
School reintegration support
Local outpatient care and sober living resources
Medication and case management continuity
Alumni & follow-up care options available
Real Results. Real Families. Real Hope.
Google Reviews
What Our Families Say
Carol Trombino
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Nexus Academy was a wonderful place for my daughter. The staff were amazing and so supportive. They worked with our entire family. Highly recommend Nexus.
Hemella Sweatt
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Sending your child or teen to a residential treatment facility is a difficult and heart-wrenching decision. The team at Nexus Teen Academy was exceptional. Our daughter's therapist was a great fit for her and played a significant role in helping us grow as a family. Family therapy is a crucial part of your child's recovery, and Nexus does an excellent job of involving the family in the healing process. We are grateful for their support in guiding our daughter toward a path of recovery.
S H
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The program at Nexus was a lifesaver for my 15-year-old daughter. After a tough year in and out of different levels of care, my husband and I had truly hit a breaking point and knew a residential facility was needed, but we were adamant about finding a place that was safe, respectful, and loving for our daughter. The entire team at Nexus was caring and engaged from day one, despite my daughter NOT making that easy for the first couple of weeks. There were definitely days in the beginning where we wondered if this was even working, but the team encouraged my husband and me to stay the course, and thank goodness we did. After completing Nexus residential and PHP programs, our daughter has done a complete 180. Her mental health struggles aren't 'magically gone' - but she has learned not to let them control her and our family dynamic is leagues better than where we started. Maybe the craziest part of this whole experience was when she recently acknowledged that she was really struggling before and thanked me for sending her to the program - I almost fainted. All this to say, I can't recommend the team at Nexus enough to any family with a teen who is going through a hard time.
Amanda Hayes
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Our 12 year old attended Nexus in summer of 2025. I opted for this location due to the reviews from other parents regarding similarly aged children. It's a whole different ballgame when a parent is trying to figure out what is best for their tween, knowing they will have exposure to older teenagers and older problems. That sad, Nexus is such a cohesive program. Our experience has been nothing short of wonderful, given the impossible circumstanes. All staff seems to be personally invested in each child's recovery and wellbeing. Our child left Nexus in a much more healed state than when they went in. I was so nervous about taking this huge step after poor hospital experiences and previous PHP's not being as helpful as we hoped.
The staff is on top of relational dynamics in the house, and there is some separation between the younger residents and older ones, while still promoting overall cohesiveness.
I feel they did a tremendous job supporting our 12 year old developmentally, bringing out a sense of childhood again. They also masterfully navigated our complicated family dynamic, going above and beyond to ensure our child's needs were met, the program requirements were met, in alignment with our family's needs.
In a way, our child's time away at Nexus brought them back to us in a way we hadn't seen in a long time. I am so grateful.
The PHP program, as well, is top notch and operates from heart. I would recommend both Nexus RTC and their PHP program to any parent in a similar situation. I have offered to connect with any parent in a similar place, so feel free to inquire about connecting with the staff. I know how terrifying this all is, and while we're not totally out of the woods, our child is currently attending school full time again with 2 evening therapy sessions each week. I attribute this assimilation into developmentally typical structure entirely to the care and support we all received from Nexus staff, from intake to therapy to medical and everyone else involved.
Thank you, nexus, for helping our child- and our family- in our healing. I am forever grateful.
Alisha
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
When we realized we needed a place for our teen to go longer term it was one of the hardest, scariest things I have been through as a mother. Nexus really made it easier and not quite so scary. They have a really caring staff, the kids love the staff. They truly care about your child, it’s not just another kid in and out of their house. I felt like our family was important and they were focused on what my child needed to help her through this difficult time. There was a lot of ups and downs with this process and we had some really hard times and conversations but the staff was always there to help guide us. I would truly say if you are struggling and your teen needs residential Nexus is an amazing place for treatment. The house is beautiful and it is truly comfortable for the kids. I would definitely recommend Nexus.
Vanessa Anaya
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I would like to share that we had a great experience at Nexus Teen Academy. All of the staff is great with communication and assisted us through the process. I am very grateful for all of the resources, help and treatment for my teen throughout their stay. The have an amazing team and would recommend to anyone who needs the help.
Sean Hayes
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I highly recommend Nexus Teen Academy. The structure, support, and care they provided made a significant impact on my child, and it was also maintainable post-residency. During the residency, I attended a parent group led by the therapists who worked with the kids; where we learned critical skills and distinctions which helped with life afterward. It was also great to be in contact with other parents during this time, and the parenting group was great for this.
Zane Bedford
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Four years ago at the age of 13 my daughter completely stopped participating in school and started to display symptoms of major depression anxiety and an unknown mood disorder.Her attendance at school was greatly impacted in such a way that attending once or twice a week became standard until the age of 16.Alcohol addiction and juvenile legal troubles followed and became common issues up until the moment my daughter entered into Nexus Teen Academy.To be completely honest as a completely broken single parent,after trying many attempts at therapy/medications I had lost hope and had given up on expecting anything could fix the crisis we had been living in for the last for years.
Nexus Academy changed my perspective, my daughter completed 33 days and for the first time in years I saw the spark and light come back to her eyes and soul.She left Nexus displaying insight and a desire to get back on track with her education.
With all professions , one will find flaws and opportunities for improvement .I believe Nexus understands this and showed an openess to suggestions and constructive criticism.
lily henderson
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Nexus was a life changing experience. I went in at 17 and experienced my 18th in there, to which the staff and residents all made sure I felt special. My goals were formed around gaining a better sense of self identity, self respect, and healing myself from the inside out. All of which happened in ways I never expected. I was shown how healthy communication, empathy in your home life, and phone-free relationships, all shape you as a person. Each and every one of the staff and administrators at Nexus are solely devoted to the children’s lives and well being. If there was ever an issue, i felt confident to go to them about it and it was swiftly handled. It was one of the most difficult goodbyes I have ever experienced in my life, as I grew family-life bonds with every person there. Thank you all!!!!! I appreciate every way you showed up for me and how you supported me in my stay. I will carry this experience with me forever.
Jasmine Carter
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My daughter was referred here after her various visits to psychiatric hospitals.I was so scared to be apart from my child but Nexus made me feel better about my decision because of their loving and welcoming environment. I love everything about this place, they really love the kids and support parents along the way. I appreciate everyone that loved and supported my child while she was at her lowest. I recommend this place to anyone that may feel like they have tried all they can and they do not know what to do next because Nexus will help you with the next steps in your journey.
High Ratings:4.9 out of 5 Google ratings.
Testimonials:Families highlight staff transparency, quick responses (even at 10 PM), and seeing their child undergo a “complete transformation”.
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC and Nexus Teen Academy
Group Home for Teens in Phoenix, Arizona
FACT CHECKED
The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
Published By Nexus Teen Academy
Nexus Teen Academy
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
Published On October 25, 2025
Table of Contents
At Nexus Teen Academy, we offer a compassionate, structured group home alternative for adolescent boys and girls aged 12–17 in the Phoenix area. Unlike traditional adolescent group homes, Nexus Teen Academy provides teenage mental health and substance abuse treatment in a home-like environment that feels safe, welcoming, and not like a locked-up mental facility.
We partner with most major private insurance plans and help families get out-of-network approval when needed-especially because there are so few specialized treatment centers for teens in the Valley.”
Meritain Health
Cigna Healthcare
Aetna
GEHA
UMR
Why Parents Choose Nexus Teen Academy Residential Treatment for Teens in Phoenix
Our teen residential treatment center is a group home-like space where your teen boy or girl can heal, grow, and rediscover hope—with the support of a passionate clinical team dedicated to lasting transformation.
Our program includes:
Our Teen Male Treatment Facility
A Virtual Tour of Nexus Teen Academy: Oak
Our Teen Female Treatment Facility
A Virtual Tour of Nexus Teen Academy: Mesquite
What is a Group Home?
A teen group home is a residential care facility or supervised living space where a small group of teenagers lives together under supervision.
It provides a stable and supportive living environment, promotes social interaction, and helps teens develop basic life skills.
Teen group homes can be state-run or privately managed, co-ed or same-sex, and the quality of care varies significantly.
Limitations of Traditional Group Homes
A. Lack of Specialized Care: Group homes typically offer basic therapy but are often ill-equipped to treat complex mental health, behavioral health, or substance abuse issues. Basic therapy may not be sufficient for complex issues.
B. Limited Individual Attention: Due to limited staffing, traditional group homes struggle to provide the personalized attention required by troubled teens.
C. Insufficient Educational Support: Academic assistance is often minimal or bare-bones, potentially leading to significant educational setbacks.
D. Basic Skills Training Only: Provides fundamental life skills, but may fail to offer the comprehensive training needed for teens facing severe challenges.
Best RTC in Phoenix: The Specialized Alternative For Group Homes For Teens
For families in Phoenix seeking a more structured and clinically intensive approach without sacrificing the warmth of a close-knit, home-like environment. Nexus Teen Academy offers a true alternative to traditional group homes. We offer gender-specific treatment programs, including male and female separate houses, to ensure that your teen gets the best treatment possible.
Who We Help: Conditions & Ideal Fit
We offer specialized residential treatment in Phoenix for adolescents struggling with:
PTSD
Trauma
Teen Self Harm
Anxiety
Suicidal Thoughts
Depression
Low Self-worth
Mood and Behavior Disorders
ADHD/Impulse Control
Psychotic Disorders
Personality Disorders
Mood Swings & Anger
When to Choose Nexus Teen Academy over a Group Home :
Comprehensive Program and Therapeutic Modalities At Nexus Teen Academy
Individualized Therapy Plan
Family Therapy & Empowerment Group
Thoughtful Discharge Plan
Evidence Based Therapy
Individual Teen Therapy
Group Therapy
A. Clinical Pillars:
B. Integrated Support Services (Complete Program for Success):
C. Experiential/Activities (NTA Specific)
We provide therapies that meet action through enjoyable activities such as weekly Equine Therapy, regular outings (e.g., Odyssey Aquarium, cat cafes), and in-house activities like building Legos and diamond art.
Nexus Teen Academy: The Best Alternative to Group Home for Teens in Phoenix
Healing Happens Here: Inside Our Phoenix Facility
Female Group Home Alternative Located in Cave Creek, Arizona (Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Maricopa County)
Our peaceful desert campus provides:
1. Physical Address (Cave Creek): Located at 2695 E Saddle Mountain Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
2. Regional Accessibility: Convenient access for residents of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding Maricopa County areas.
3. Environment: Nestled in the beauty of the Arizona desert, providing a safe, private, and comfortable healing environment.
Our Team
Dedicated staff members, including a Director of Community Relations, work to raise awareness about teen mental health challenges, dispel stigma, and forge vital community connections.
Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Hannah has been with Nexus since day one, initially joining as the Clinical Director before moving into the Chief Operating Officer role. Her clinical expertise and management skills will help Nexus grow into not only a place for healing for teens but an
Dr. Tyler White, LCSW, DSW
Dr. White is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who holds a Doctorate in Social Work and has experience working with adolescents and families across diverse clinical settings. She is passionate about helping teens feel understood, supported, and capable of
Ashley Daniels
Ashley is passionate about supporting teens' social, emotional, and academic growth at Nexus. As a former director of theatre and teen programs, she developed liberal arts residential summer camps for Mount Holyoke College and Bryn Mawr College.
Jennifer Inderberg
With over 25 years of experience in education, Jennifer is passionate about supporting teens both academically and personally.
Alexandria Penner DNP, PMHNP-BC
Alex is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience supporting children and teens in crisis centers, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. She holds a nursing degree from Northern Arizona University and a doctorate from the University of
Melissa Stockmar
Chef Melissa is the Director of Food Operations at Nexus Teen Academy. Melissa Stockmar’s love and connection with food began at the age of 15. Growing up in the Midwest, every meal was treated as an important opportunity to spend time together with family and
Joe Gilmore
Joe Gilmore is the Director of Marketing at Nexus, where he leads digital outreach and content development to connect families with mental health care.
Family Involvement Is Not Optional—It’s Required
Family involvement is required and is a major part of the RTC ethos, ensuring the teen transitions home to a healthier environment. A dedicated Family Therapist works with families to identify relational patterns and develop pathways toward familial healing.
Your teen’s transformation depends on family healing, too. That’s why we offer:
Admissions Process
Enrollment is a simple 3-step process that starts with a single call.
[Get Started]
The initial phone call
Pre-screening
Start Therapy
Discharge and Follow-up
A thoughtful Discharge Plan is developed with the family to transition the teen to the next level of care (such as Adolescent IOP). Staff often provide support even after discharge, assisting with transitions to aftercare programs. We create custom Discharge & Aftercare Plans to ensure success post-treatment:
Real Results. Real Families. Real Hope.
Google Reviews
What Our Families Say