Jennifer Taylor, President of JET ED Consulting, led a discussion for their monthly Parent-Support Program on the challenges faced by families with children in treatment programs, emphasizing the importance of trust, open communication, and support. Jennifer emphasized the need for clear communication, emotional attunement, and effective problem-solving. The conversation ended with discussions on self-care practices to return to baseline before reaching out to a program to have the most productive conversation.
1 – Trust
Jennifer discussed the importance of trust in therapeutic boarding school programs and the need for continuous development of this trust. She shared some coaching: “The best results come from your faith in the therapeutic setting.” She acknowledged that there may be times when parents have concerns or questions about their child's experience in the program, and Jennifer encouraged her parents to reach out to her and Missy with any concerns or questions. JET ED Consulting focuses on parent coaching and support as a hallmark of the practice.
2 - Communication
The next focus of this topic was. Jennifer suggested that her clients reach out for help directly to the program first – and allow them a chance to resolve the issue. For example, one client asked about concerns in their family therapy sessions, feeling they were not addressing the core issues. Jennifer suggested that these parents have a specific discussion with their therapist to clarify their expectations and goals for the therapy sessions. Jennifer also explained that the therapy sessions may not always be focused on family therapy, and some issues could be helped by multifamily workshops and face-to-face interactions.
3 - Challenges
At some point, there will be challenges, struggles, and emotions about how the treatment is going. One father expressed his disappointment with the lack of clarity and communication from his child's program, which led to a lack of understanding of his child's situation. One mom shared her experience of feeling blind and disoriented when her child was in a program. Jennifer emphasized the importance of a parent handbook with key contacts and suggested that parents should define clear communication expectations from the program.
4 - Emotional Attunement in Family Relationships
Students may call and complain about things in their program. This can be hard to hear. Jennifer emphasized the importance of emotional attunement in family relationships, particularly with children, and suggested the parents acknowledge and validate their emotions. Jennifer offered, “These techniques can help your child feel heard and understood.” The group also added 1) the need for active listening, 2) empathy, and 3) maintaining a calm demeanor
5 - Managing Anxiety and Self-Care Practices
Jennifer emphasized the importance of self-regulation and managing parents' anxiety for effective outcomes. Each family shared their experiences with stress, especially in the process of letting go. The conclusion of the meeting was to focus on “what is going well.” When one notices the positive, they can reframe and refocus on the goals and triumphs.
About JET ED Consulting:
JET ED Consulting is a premier residential placement consulting firm and special education advocate. After her own child needed residential care, she developed a practice that is relationship-based. Her skillful parent support creates feelings of trust alongside strategic clinical referrals. Jennifer specializes in therapeutic and learning differences placements for kids from 10-24. Well-versed in dual diagnosis and clinically complicated cases as well. Based in the Bay Area of California and Raleigh, NC, she is fortunate to have clients all over the country. www.jetedconsulitng.com