Adolescent SCI Rehabilitation Program

A healthcare professional assists a smiling young woman in a wheelchair with a medical device. The setting appears to be a clinical environment, with a table visible in the background. Both individuals are engaged and appear to be in good spirits.

Even under the best circumstances, life as a teen can feel far from normal — even more so when you’re recovering from a spinal cord injury. At Shepherd Center, our adolescent rehabilitation program is designed to meet the unique needs of this age group, providing a safe and nurturing environment where both physical healing and personal growth flourish.

A space just for teens and adolescents

During rehabilitation, adolescents work toward regaining independence while fostering autonomy, privacy, and a sense of control. Our adolescent floor and therapy gym create a space just for them: where hope, humor, and hard work inspire progress every day.

Specialized experts, just for adolescents

Our specialized program is led by a dedicated adolescent care team that includes physicians, counselors, therapists, and educators, all focused on helping teens regain independence while maintaining their sense of autonomy.

Building confidence through leadership

Adolescents nominate one peer to serve as the “mayor” of the floor — a role that helps keep spirits high, fosters a sense of responsibility, and strengthens bonds between participants. The floor mayor helps motivate others to stay focused and do their best, all while developing valuable leadership skills.

Celebrating every milestone

When adolescents graduate from inpatient rehab, they leave behind messages of encouragement for those still on the journey. These uplifting notes, displayed on a whiteboard in the therapy gym, serve as a reminder of the progress made and the power of peer support.

Rebuilding futures, restoring hope

Video Poster
Adolescents and families share how they found hope and a path forward through Shepherd Center.

Where healing meets fun

Beyond therapy, we offer a variety of age-appropriate activities designed to celebrate milestones and build social connections. Whether it’s bonding with peers, practicing social and cognitive skills, or simply enjoying time together, these events help teens grow, heal, and reclaim a sense of normalcy.

A group of people in wheelchairs smiling and holding colorful pom-poms. They are in a room with a large screen behind them. Some wear sweatshirts with logos, and they appear to be celebrating or participating in an event.
Two people wearing reflective sunglasses smile while sitting in wheelchairs. The person on the left wears a pink dress, and the one on the right is in a blue shirt and patterned pants. They are in front of a balloon display with gold, green, and white balloons.
A young lady in a vibrant green dress sits in a wheelchair on stage, smiling confidently. An audience applauds in front. The background displays photos on a screen.
From in-center prom and homecoming to college and career days, annual fashion shows, and haunted house fun, our adolescents embrace creativity, connection, and joy during their rehabilitation journey.

Proven care and outcomes

Families across the country trust Shepherd Center for its expert care, age-specific therapies, and strong track record of helping teens and young adults reclaim their lives. Each year, more than 100 adolescents, ages 12 to 21, choose Shepherd Center for their specialized rehabilitation journey.

Adolescent SCI Patient Outcomes

There’s still more life ahead of me.

Sterling Thomas, Oklahoma

Spinal Cord Injury

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Life skills for beyond rehabilitation

We help adolescents develop essential life skills for independence and success. Through community outings, educational classes, and innovative technologies, adolescents gain the confidence and tools they need to thrive both during and after rehabilitation.

Community outings

Fun Fridays allow adolescents to explore the world beyond therapy with community outings that promote independence, confidence, and social connections. Whether it’s attending a sports event, hiking, visiting a mall, or taking a trip to a nearby Chick-fil-A, these activities let teens practice their skills in real-world settings, often without parents.

Educational classes for personal growth

We offer classes on key life topics, including relationships, dating, social events, bladder and bowel care, stigma management, drug and alcohol awareness, and sexuality. These sessions help teens succeed in rehabilitation while building the confidence and knowledge they need for an independent, fulfilling life.

Innovative technologies to enhance independence

At our Center for Assistive Technologies, we empower teens to gain greater independence through adaptive technology. Whether they’re finding new ways to use their cell phone, learning to drive, or playing video games, these tools help teens navigate daily life with more ease and confidence.

A person in a graduation gown and cap stands in front of a stone sign with

Seamless return-to-school transition

School remains a priority throughout rehabilitation, and Shepherd Center is one of the few facilities nationwide with an on-site teacher dedicated to helping adolescents stay on track academically. With a dedicated study space equipped with whiteboards, reference materials, and adaptive tools such as specialized pens, we create an inclusive learning environment. Through our No Obstacles program, we also prepare students for a smooth return to school with in-school awareness training for staff and classmates, as well as guidance on medical and cognitive needs throughout the school day.

90%

Within two weeks of discharge, 90% of adolescents return to school.

95%

Of those who return within two weeks, 95% graduate on time with their class while maintaining their pre-injury GPA.

Devin Bateman and his mother Celeste.

Support for the whole family

Rehabilitation at Shepherd Center extends beyond the adolescent to include the entire family. We offer educational resources, support groups, and family dinners that foster community, understanding, and connection, helping you feel confident in your role while strengthening family bonds throughout the recovery process.

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