Written by: Wood Creek Academy
The right therapeutic program can change your child’s life permanently.
Finding the right help for troubled teens can be a difficult feat if you know little to nothing about the types of therapeutic programs out there. This guide will explain the different types of programs that you can send your child to so you can find one that suits your personal preference.
Boarding Schools
Boarding schools are designed to house teenagers that aren’t suited for standard high schools. Children will stay at dorms and are subjected to a curriculum system that covers the basic state education requirements. This can be a solid option for your child if he or she doesn’t necessarily fit in with their current school and is acting irrationally on a continuous basis.
Wilderness Programs
Stepping away from the education system, therapeutic wilderness programs offer something that many troubled teen programs do not – a natural form of therapy. For example, these programs take your child on hikes in the mountains, with other groups, by professional guides to teach them how to maintain accountability. This style of therapy is guided mainly by the natural healing characteristics of the terrain. Students will learn how to make a fire, make their own dinner, help others in need, and other actions that will help them in the real world setting.
Boot Camps
Militarized boot camps are exactly what they sound like. Drill instructors essentially “whip” students into shape through a series of rigorous militarized activities. A rather controversial program, these programs teach children how to behave appropriately and obey their families without rebelling. Keep in mind that this can have a substantial impact on a child’s mental health. However, if you feel that this trumps a standard school for troubled teens, then it’s important that you understand the limitations of this programs beforehand.