Testimonials

References are available upon request.

Marla is such a joy to work with as a referring professional mostly because of her clinical expertise and the thoroughness of her work.  She is sure to have done her homework on each student she has committed to help before making a recommendation to a program.  I have found her to be more than available and accessible to me as an Admissions Director during the enrollment process and also with her families before and during a student’s stay in our program insuring greater long term success.  Perhaps the most important quality to note is the understanding and warmth she brings to families during a very stressful time.  I can only imagine how much easier the process must be for the families she helps.

Lauren L. MA, LPC, Admissions/Outreach - Wilderness Therapy Program

"Before we started working with Marla Simon we felt hopeless, often thinking: 'Nothing is going to work. My son won't ever be ok. What should we do?'" During the process we thought, "I hope my son will be open to our suggestions but what if he doesn't agree?" Marla worked with us step by step and now we feel hopeful and optimistic. She found the perfect match for our son. We are so happy he agreed to go to this program. He is optimistic and has hope. We have Hope! Thanks for all your help."

Parents of T., Age 21

Marla is very helpful with the admissions process. She is great at providing pertinent information on the students to ensure that the program fit is the best for the student and family. Even as families admit, she continues to follow her students and communicate with the facility and the family. Marla is great to work with and ethical is her practices!      

Kristie J- Admissions Director - Residential Treatment for Girls

"At a time when nobody else could offer help or assistance, when we had nowhere to turn, you took charge. You gave us the same care you would have given your own child. There were days when I thought - You saved our daughter's life. What could be more trying then to deal with and communicate with parent's of a child in trouble? I know we did not make life easy for you - but your composure kept us on course. You really did know what was best for the entire family. Obviously visiting the two facilities helped us make a decision but narrowing it down to these choices would have been impossible for us. Your continued encouragement and feedback helped keep us on track. This was a life changing experience for our entire family. What could be more difficult than trying to find the right place to send your troubled child? Talk about the "trust" factor! When nothing else is working - and all the doctors and medicines are not working - it's folks like you that come in and save the day."

Parents of E., Age 17

"We have our daughter back at home with us and we are now happy and fulfilled. Our daughter is now looking forward to her promising future. Marla Simon was a godsend. Her advice was right on. She provided us with accurate and helpful information. Most importantly, she was concerned, warm, insightful, compassionate and wise."

Mr. and Mrs. K - Parents of B., age 16

"Before I went to wilderness I felt trapped, anxious and unhappy. At first I resented my parents for sending and escorting me there. After an adjustment period, I pushed myself outside my comfort zone — emotionally and physically. I related all of the wilderness skills to my life and the struggles I had been battling. I exerted myself physically, emotionally, and intellectually and still had time to laugh and enjoy life. Wilderness was a jump start and it helped me to realize that I no longer wanted to feel trapped and overwhelmed and instead I wanted balance and freedom.

After wilderness I attended a residential treatment center in Utah. The transition was hard but I knew that it was the best place for me to grow and develop the skills I needed to go home. I felt free from the constraints and pressure I put on myself, and I felt like a normal teenager who could relax and enjoy life. While I was there I realized I never really understood what the concept of balance meant. I made a conscious decision to no longer submit myself to the pain, angst, and the void of happiness I experienced before. I learned how rewarding and enjoyable life can be when you can unconditionally love yourself. I learned to laugh and live again. Thank you."

B. Age 16

"Before the process we felt terrified, confused, sad and extremely stressed. During the process we felt we were getting the help our entire family needed and had someone to turn to. Now we feel relieved and grateful. We couldn't be more pleased with our son's progress and the help he is getting."

Parents of A, Age 17

"We feel you have an amazing gift of gathering very personal information without "intruding" and explaining the process without pushing us into a decision. We never felt we were putting our lives in the hands of a "stranger", but more in the hands of someone who cared and understood. Thank you!"

Parents of J., Age 14

"You were always available and took whatever time it took to talk. Mostly, we were very impressed with your ability to speak with our son and help him understand what he needed to do. Thank you."

Parents of M., Age 16