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Pittsburgh
The Watson Institute Friendship Academy

The Watson Institute Friendship Academy

Mental Health
•
Outpatient
Unclaimed
Insurance

The Watson Institute Friendship Academy

Mental Health•Outpatient
About
Insurance
Treatment
Amenities
FAQs

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.

Fostering Emotional Growth Through Treatment

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.

Reinforce Skills Through Interactive Sessions

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.

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AT A GLANCE

Center Overview

Location
255 S. Negley Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 View Map
Primary Focus
At this center, you receive personalized care for mental health conditio...
Founded in 1917
109 years in business
Conditions We Treat
Anger, Anxiety, Neurodiversity, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder +3 More
The Watson Institute Friendship Academy logo

(412) 749-2889

thewatsoninstitute.org
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How to pay

Insurance Accepted

BlueCross BlueShield
BlueCross BlueShield
All Centers in Pennsylvania
Provider's Policy: We accept most major insurances, including UPMC Health Plan, and Pennsylvania Medical Assistance. For out-of-network plans, call us to discuss your coverage and possible payment assistance.
(412) 749-2889
Private Pay Option

Cash Pay Rates

We don't have pricing information for this center. Please contact the center for more information.
(412) 749-2889
Care Options

Levels of Care

Mental health care includes a range of services such as counseling, therapy, medication management, and support groups, all designed to address issues from everyday stress and anxiety to more severe conditions like depression and schizophrenia. These practices are essential for helping individuals manage their emotions, improve their relationships, and navigate life's challenges in healthier, more adaptive ways.
Not included
Residential
Not Offered at This Center
Intensive monitoring and care for conditions like depression, trauma, suicidality, and anxiety. Residential mental health facilities offer a safe setting with activities and structure, plus opportunities to practice life skills and bond with peers.
Included
Day Treatment
In a PHP, patients live at home but follow an intensive schedule of treatment. Most programs require you to be on-site for about 40 hours per week.
Included
Outpatient
Outpatient treatment offers flexible therapeutic and medical care without the need to stay overnight in a hospital or inpatient facility. Outpatient care typically offers a range of therapies and medical interventions individuals can attend alongside daily life.
Included
Virtual & In-Home Care
The delivery of therapeutic services utilizing technology such as video conferencing, online messaging or phone calls, allowing for flexibility, comfort and increased access to care.
Included
Licensed Primary Mental Health
Licensed primary mental health facilities provide specialized care for diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. By offering early intervention and comprehensive services, they promote overall well-being and prevent long-term complications.
Treatment

Your Care Options

Specializations

Adolescents
Children
Neurodiversity
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Trauma

Who We Treat

Adolescents
Children
Young Adults
Girls
Boys
Neurodivergent

Approaches

Evidence-Based
Family Involvement
Individual Treatment
Trauma Informed

Therapies

1-on-1 Counseling
Art Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Eye Movement Therapy (EMDR)
Family Therapy
Group Therapy
Life Skills
Music Therapy

Languages

English

Conditions We Treat

Anger
Anxiety
Neurodiversity
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Self-Harm
Stress
Trauma

Aftercare

Follow-up Sessions (online)
Follow-up Sessions (in-person)
Outpatient Treatment
Medication Assistance
Experience

Care Designed for Your Needs

Personal Amenities

Air-Conditioned Rooms

Special Considerations

Family Program
Wheelchair Accessible
Transition Program

Activities

Games

Smoking and Vaping Policy

Smoking Not Allowed
Vaping Not Allowed
Frequently Asked Questions

Further Research

The following therapies are included: group therapy, 1-on-1 counseling and more.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.
We accept most major insurances, including UPMC Health Plan, and Pennsylvania Medical Assistance. For out-of-network plans, call us to discuss your coverage and possible payment assistance.
The Watson Institute Friendship Academy provides day treatment, licensed primary mental health and more.

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