Step Into Life

Residential Treatment & Transitional Living for Young Adults in Maine

Cornerstones of Maine offers a full continuum of behavioral health care for young adults ages 18-30. From short-term residential treatment to long-term transitional living and step-down support, each program is designed to meet young adults where they are and help them move toward where they want to be.

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What Cornerstones Is

Cornerstones is clinician-owned and operates in Portland, Maine. Programs serve young adults navigating mental health conditions, neurodivergence, failure to launch, and the transition to independent adulthood.

At Cornerstones, clinical care and real-world skill-building happen in the same place, at the same time. Mental health support, daily structure, community living, and practical life skills are all part of the same program. Young adults practice what they are learning here, within a structured community environment and with the support of a clinician-led team.

Our Programs

A Continuum Built Around Progress

Most young adults who come to Cornerstones need a sequence of support that adjusts as they grow. The programs below are designed to work together.

Short-Term Residential Treatment

For young adults who need stabilization, structure, and intensive clinical support. Short-term residential treatment at Cornerstones provides around-the-clock care within a therapeutic community, with individual therapy, psychiatry, group work, and life skills integrated into daily life.

Learn about Residential Treatment

Transitional Living

For young adults ready to practice independence with clinical support still in place. Residents live in collaborative apartments, engage in daily living tasks, and continue therapy and coaching while building the habits that make independent adulthood sustainable.

Learn about Transitional Living

Step-Down Apartment

For young adults who have made progress and are ready for greater autonomy without losing their footing. The step-down program offers a supportive bridge between structured living and a fully independent life.

Learn about the Step-Down

Aftercare & Continued Support

Progress does not end at discharge. Cornerstones maintains connection with alumni and coordinates continued care to support long-term outcomes.

Learn about Aftercare

Who Cornerstones Is Built For

Cornerstones works with young adults aged 18-30 navigating a wide range of presentations. Many arrive with more than one thing going on at once. Our clinical team is equipped to hold that complexity.

Failure to Launch and Delayed Independence

Neurodivergence: Autism and ADHD

Mood Disorders: Depression, Anxiety, and OCD

Personality Disorders: BPD, APD, and DPD

Our Treatment Approach

Clinical Care That Connects to Real Life

Treatment at Cornerstones is set of integrated supports delivered by a coordinated team: individual and group therapy, psychiatric medication management, executive function coaching, relationship and social coaching, academic support, and life skills development.

The goal is not just symptom reduction. It is a young adult who knows how to function, connect, and care for themselves outside of a clinical setting.

Discover our treatment approach

Supporting the People Who Support Them

Families navigating this process are often doing so for the first time, without a clear map. Cornerstones works closely with parents and caregivers throughout treatment, and maintains relationships with educational consultants, therapists, and other referring professionals who want to stay informed and involved.

For Parents & Families

Cornerstones provides regular family communication, family therapy as clinically appropriate, and a clear admissions process that does not leave families waiting without answers.

For Parents

For Educational Consultants & Referring Professionals

Cornerstones welcomes referrals and ongoing collaboration. The clinical team is available for case consultation and program questions.

Common Questions

What is the difference between short-term residential treatment and long-term transitional living?

Residential treatment is a higher level of care designed for young adults who need stabilization and intensive clinical support. Transitional living is for young adults who are past the acute phase and ready to practice independence with clinical support still in place. Many Cornerstones residents move from residential into transitional living as part of a planned continuum.

What ages does Cornerstones serve?

Cornerstones serves young adults ages 18 to 30.

Does Cornerstones accept insurance?

Cornerstones works with a number of insurance providers. Families can verify coverage through the admissions process.

Verify Your Insurance

Where is Cornerstones located?

Cornerstones operates in Portland, Maine.

How do I start the admissions process?

The first step is reaching out through the contact form or by calling the admissions team directly. From there, the team will walk families through the assessment and intake process. How Admissions Works

What happens after a young adult completes the program?

Cornerstones offers aftercare and continued support for alumni. The clinical team works with each resident to plan the transition out of programming before discharge.

Choosing the Right Level of Care for Your Young Adult

Choosing the Right Level of Care for Your Young Adult is a practical guide that walks families through the differences between residential treatment and transitional living, explaining what each level offers and how to determine the right starting point. Grounded in the specific structure and philosophy of Cornerstones’ programs, this guide will help you make a confident decision about your loved ones' treatment. Download your free copy today and take the first step toward informed, thoughtful care.