Frequently Asked Questions
What if my child does not want to go?
- As the parent of a child under the age of 18, you have the right to place your child without his or her consent.
- There are many strategies that can be used to get your child to a program.
- Your love for your child, along with the guidance of an expert, will ease the process.
What if I wait?
- Teenagers do not outgrow chemical addiction problems. Without treatment, addiction increases.
- School failure may lead to serious behavioral and/or chemical addiction issues.
- Once a student falls behind, it is often difficult to catch up and be successful.
- Studies suggest early identification and treatment are key predictors for success.
- The school best suited for your child's needs may not have openings.
What results can we expect?
- A child with more self-confidence and increased self-esteem
- Success in academics
- Increased motivation for school and personal success
- More open and honest communication with family
What support will we receive?
Different programs offer a variety of support for families that may include:
- Active involvement of parents in educational seminars and/or local support groups
- Monthly newsletters or regular on-line educational information
- Guidance during home visits
What are my options?
- INTERVENE. Remove the child from the situation and place him/her in a structured behavioral program or specialty school. This route is usually the most successful option. Long-term treatment allows for the internalization of necessary changes in attitude and behavior.
OR
- Ride out the situations at hand and hope he/she survives without physical or emotional harm.
- Get therapy and family counseling - an option that usually is not long enough to make any lasting changes in the child's attitude or behaviors.
- Get police involved, possible foster care or state placement - placing the child among more problematic adolescents
Why can’t I just use the web to find a school?
- You will find a large amount of information on the Internet that can be overwhelming and confusing.
- It is important for a child to be placed in a school or program that meets their specific needs.
- To know if schools are safe and reliable, one must see them in operation.
