The Watson Institute Friendship Academy
Pittsburgh, PA
Est. 1917 1 care level
(833) 567-5838
Free · Confidential · 24/7
About The Watson Institute Friendship Academy
Located in Pittsburgh’s East Liberty neighborhood and less than two miles from Interstate 376, this nonprofit center serves youth ages 5–21 with outpatient behavioral health services, special education, and a partial hospitalization program (PHP). The team works with young people experiencing trauma and neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, emotional challenges, and social or behavioral needs.
The Watson Institute Friendship Academy uses trauma-informed care and structured routines to help students strengthen emotional regulation, improve focus, and build communication skills. Therapists apply cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to promote skill-building and support healthy coping. They offer individual counseling, psychiatric services, and medication management as core parts of each care plan.
Staff integrate therapeutic support into the school day, where students also engage in art, music, and physical education. Staff teach life skills to build independence to clients and lead family group therapy to strengthen connection and shared growth. The center also offers telehealth services, giving families flexible options for continued support.
The Watson Institute Friendship Academy uses trauma-informed care and structured routines to help students strengthen emotional regulation, improve focus, and build communication skills. Therapists apply cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to promote skill-building and support healthy coping. They offer individual counseling, psychiatric services, and medication management as core parts of each care plan.
Staff integrate therapeutic support into the school day, where students also engage in art, music, and physical education. Staff teach life skills to build independence to clients and lead family group therapy to strengthen connection and shared growth. The center also offers telehealth services, giving families flexible options for continued support.
Who This Center Serves
Adolescents
Children
Young Adults
Girls
Boys
Neurodivergent
What to Expect at The Watson Institute Friendship Academy
1. Initial Assessment
A clinical team evaluates your history, needs, and goals to create a personalized plan.
2. Active Treatment
Evidence-based therapies including 1-on-1 Counseling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, typically 90 days.
3. Progress & Recovery
Regular progress reviews, skill-building sessions, and adjustment of your treatment plan.
4. Aftercare Planning
Continued support, relapse prevention strategies, and connections to community resources for lasting recovery.
Contact Information
Quick Facts
| Program | 90 days |
| Focus | At this center, you receive pe... |
| Insurance | 24 accepted |
Therapies & Methods
Treatment Philosophy
Evidence-Based
Individual Treatment
Trauma Informed
Family Involvement
Insurance Accepted
The Watson Institute Friendship Academy works with 24 insurance providers.
Verify Your Insurance Coverage
Free verification · Know your costs before you commit
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help Choosing the Right Center?
Our counselors are available 24/7 to help you find the right program.
(833) 567-5838Free · Confidential · No Obligation
Information last verified: April 2026 · Data sourced from SAMHSA