| 1. How long will it take for my child to "get better?" |
| It is difficult to place a set 'time' on your child's issues and how long it may take in order to resolve them. Resolving them depends on factors such as denial, length of problem, etc. Resolving issues can take anywhere from a few months to a year. One of the worst things you can do as a parent or guardian is removing them from treatment prior to completion or resolution of issues. This only wastes your time, money, and enables your child. If you pull them out of treatment early, a strong message is sent to the child that they really don't need to change. |
| 2. When can I see or talk to my child? |
| Our program is designed for the student to have everything taken away from them and then begin having the student earn back what was taken initially. This teaches the student gratitude and ultimately eliminates the sense of entitlement they may have brought with them to the program. Phone calls will happen each weekend, however, we ask that visitation not happen for 21 days following admission; if they achieve their second level. After they have achieved their second level they can have family visitation. We will not pull a child out of school for a phone call, unless it is an emergency. Most phone calls and visits are scheduled once a week and usually fall on the weekend. Family visits need to be scheduled so we can make sure we are at the facility. There are times when we are away providing service projects around the community. |
| 3. What can I expect to hear from my child during the first couple of months? |
| The typical student is going to go through what is often called a "rescue me" stage. This stage includes saying ANYTHING to manipulate you with the goal of having you come and rescue them. This will include threats, yelling, screaming, begging, bargaining, etc. It is important to remember that your child is here for a reason. You will know they are beyond this stage when they no longer beg you to come and take them home, and more importantly when they stop blaming others and are being REAL with themselves and with you. |
| 4. What can I do so that when my child comes home things don't go back to way they were? |
| First of all, this is a difficult question to answer. There are so many factors that could influence the life of your child. However, here are a few suggestions. First, ensure that they do not associate with friends who are not approved by you as parents. You need to know who they are associating with and where they spend their time. Second, if there are family communication problems I would suggest family counseling. Third, have your child continue seeing a counselor for treatment after discharge. Fourth, if you feel you need to change the way your child dresses (i.e. clothing) then DO IT! Throw away anything that you do not like or approve of; such as clothing, posters, music, etc. Don't be afraid you are infringing on their rights! You are the parents!!! Finally, if you as parents have your own issues that are not resolved, I would suggest doing so. Seek counseling from your local professional to resolve your own issues to help alleviate those things coming into your current life situations. |
| 5. How often can we have family therapy? |
| Family therapy will begin as soon as your child has their own issues under control. It doesn't do a lot of good to engage in family therapy if the child is still out of control and unable to handle their emotions. Once they have their feelings under control, family therapy generally consists of two sessions per month. |
| 6. What kind of treatment is my child receiving? |
| The clinical staff and professionals working with your child are very goal oriented; meaning that the interventions provided is in alignment with the overall treatment plan. Each child has a unique and individualized treatment plan outlining goals and interventions to meet their needs and desires. The treatment they receive ranges from individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, animal therapy, schooling, team building, ropes courses, and more. |
| 7. What can I send my child for them to have while in the program? |
| This is a great question! We have had several problems in the past with parents sending inappropriate items to their child. A list of things NOT to send your child include, but are not limited to:
Illegal Drugs, Cigarettes, Alcohol
Lighters
Music with bad lyrics and profanity
Clothing with gang or occult affiliations
Bags of candy or food
Tight clothing
Baggy clothing
Expensive or sentimental items or jewelry
Aerosols or products with alcohol
Some things that you CAN send are:
Underwear
Socks
Pajamas
Athletic or sports shoes
Slippers
Pictures of family members
Jacket/Coat
Sweat Shirt
Small stuffed animal (1)
Other items as approved by Management. |
| 8. Can I send mail and packages to my child? |
| You are more than welcome to send letters and packages to your child. Please do not send items that are inappropriate. For a list of items NOT to send, please refer to question number 7. We provide two stamps per student each week. If a student would like to send additional mail, it is at their expense. |
| 9. Is there something I could do to 'hurt' my child or damage this process? |
| YES! The worst thing you can do is "rescue" them from treatment. Allowing your child to persuade you into rescuing them is the worst thing you can do for your child. If you allow them to threaten you, tell you they hate you and will never speak to you, and that this place will never help them, (and you believe this) then do not bring them here for help. Allowing them the opportunity for personal growth, facing their problems and issues, and ultimately making them learn accountability for their actions is the toughest and best investment you will ever make! Allow the process to work and allow the professionals working with your child the opportunity and time it takes to help. |
