Introducing The Sage Program: Ryther’s Mood Resilience Intensive Services for Ages 8–14
- Ryther Staff
- 8 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Offering Both IOP and PHP Levels of Care!
We’re excited to announce the launch of Sage Mood Resilience Intensive Services, Ryther’s newest behavioral health program for children ages 8–14 experiencing mood disorders such as depression, anger, emotional dysregulation, and related challenges.
Sage offers both a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)—delivering the highest level of mental health care available outside of residential treatment. This dual-level structure allows us to tailor the intensity of support to each child’s needs while offering flexibility as they progress in treatment.
Understanding Mood Disorders in Children
Mood disorders are more than occasional sadness or worry—they're persistent emotional conditions that can seriously disrupt a child’s daily life. For children between ages 8–14, mood disorders can look like:
Depression: frequent irritability, sadness, withdrawal, low self-worth, and changes in sleep or appetite
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation: chronic irritability, frequent temper outbursts, and emotional intensity
Bipolar disorder: dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and behavior that go beyond typical emotional ups and downs
Often, children in this age group are too young for many mental health programs—or they don’t fit well in larger, more rigid settings.
Why Sage Is Different
Sage was created in response to a gap in care. Most IOPs and PHPs begin at age 11 or older. Younger children with complex mood needs were being left behind—or placed in programs that weren’t developmentally appropriate. Ryther is changing that.
What makes Sage special:
Ages 8–14: Specifically designed for tweens and younger teens, including those as young as 8 years old
Dual Program Structure: PHP and IOP options allow for a more responsive, individualized level of care
Small, Supportive Groups: Flexible, trauma-sensitive, and neurodiverse-informed
Nature-Based Healing: Our 9-acre campus includes a ropes challenge course, nature trail, and vegetable gardens
Easy Step-Down Care: Children can transition into Ryther’s outpatient services for continued therapy and support
This program is ideal for youth who haven’t found success in other programs or who need a tailored, more personal approach.
What Sage Offers
Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
Group, individual, and family therapy
Experiential therapies using outdoor and campus-based tools
Caregiver education and support groups
Coordination with schools and other providers
Whether your child is stepping up from weekly therapy or stepping down from hospitalization, Sage meets them where they are.
Enroll or Refer Today!
We’re now accepting referrals and new clients. Whether you’re a parent, pediatrician, school counselor, or therapist, we’re here to partner with you. Learn more and sign up today!
Why It Matters
Children deserve a place where they can be understood, supported, and treated with compassion. Early intervention in mood disorders can dramatically improve a child’s trajectory—not just emotionally, but socially, academically, and developmentally.
At Ryther, we’re proud to meet this need with Sage. Because every child deserves the tools to thrive.
Further Reading and Resources:
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