Approach
Our process starts with the family. Understanding family dynamics, along with parent’s values and goals is an integral part of our process in determining the best course of treatment. Our goal is to learn as much as we can about a student’s strengths and weaknesses and then create a path for success. By using a team approach, we collaborate with parents, student, and professionals to create a solid treatment and academic plan. Our approach is broken down into the following steps:
Assessment
Our process starts with a comprehensive assessment of your child. This includes an in-depth interview with parents (in person or over the phone) and student (if deemed appropriate). We gather information to further evaluate your child’s strengths and weaknesses with regard to social, academic, and emotional presentation. This may include a review of psycho-educational testing, academic transcripts, character references, etc. We also speak with professionals who have worked, or are currently working with your child. This research and assessment phase is crucial to finding the right program for your child. Once we have a clear understanding of your child’s needs, we work in partnership with you to determine appropriate options.
Recommendations
Now it is time to start putting the pieces of the puzzle together! Once we have gathered all of the information, we present you with a list of schools or programs that we feel are the best match for your child. We have visited hundreds of campuses and have first-hand knowledge of the schools and programs we recommend. Prior to giving you options, we have presented your child to prospective schools or programs to ensure a good match. We will provide you with information regarding school setting, staff, student profile, fees, and admission’s contact.
Support
During the selection process, we will help you process all of the information gathered so you can make the most informed decision. We use our knowledge to help you narrow down options and act as a sounding board as you consider our recommendations. Once a school or program is selected, we work with parents to gather all required documentation and work with the school or program personnel to ensure a smooth transition. Once your child is enrolled, we will continue to monitor progress and remain an advocate to the family. If a next step is required, we already know your child and are prepared to help with identifying options.
Transition
Research shows that one of the determining factors of a child’s continued success once back home, is largely due to the nature of a supportive environment within the home and within each family’s community. We work with parents to develop an appropriate aftercare plan. We have relationships with many local support services that include: therapists, psychiatrists, teaching support specialists, schools and support groups. We will collaborate with parents and professionals to come up with the best plan for the child.
Issues We Work With
- Depression/Anxiety
- School Avoidance and refusal
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder
- Underachieving students
- Personality Disorders
- Substance Abuse
- Autism Spectrum and other neurobiological disorders
- Parent-child relational problem
- Issues related to gender identity
- Anger and defiance
- Trauma
- Grief & Loss
- Adoption and Attachment Issues
- ADHD and other learning differences
- Executive Functioning challenges
- Problematic Technology Use
- Failure to Launch
- Bipolar disorder
- OCD
- Eating Disorders
- Self-Injury
- Suicidal Ideation or attempts
- Problematic Sexual Behaviors