At the recent NATSAP (National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs) Conference in San Antonio, TX, three members of the Moonridge Academy Clinical Team shared their expertise and experience as they presented sessions to peer professionals.
Executive Director Jack Hinman along with Executive Director Robbi O’Kelley of La Europa Academy (Moonridge’s sister school), presented on the topic of “Understanding and Treating Disorders of Over-Control.” In this session Jack and Robbi explored the issues of over-control as it pertains to mental health. They also discussed the use of RO-DBT (Radically Open-Dialectical Behavior Therapy) in treating over-controlled students. Not every student that comes into treatment struggles with outward dysregulation and behavior problems. For some of students in treatment, it's the opposite
Self-control is important for overall success in life, yet too much self-control is a prominent factor in a number of mental health concerns such as treatment-resistant depression, treatment-resistant anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and a number of personality disorders.
Primary Therapist Annette Pelletier presented along with Kayla Bogs from Merridell Achievement Center. The topic of their session was “Choice+Action=Change: the Combined Use of Reality and Adventure Therapy”. Annette is certified in choice theory and reality therapy through the William Glasser Institute. This training, in conjunction with the expansive use of Adventure Therapy at Moonridge Academy, provided attendees with ideas to effectively bring lasting change to students in treatment. The more a student explores, builds mastery of outdoor adventure opportunities, connects with nature, the more open that student will be to making adjustments towards a healthier, more balanced life.
Clinical Director Lacey Heinzelman participated on a panel that discussed the very important topic “What Are We Actually Doing To Help Gender Non-Conforming Kids?” More and more students in treatment are facing questions about their gender identity. Moonridge Academy currently provides services to a number of students who identify as transgender or are questioning their gender identity. Lacey was able to share her experiences with the work being done at Moonridge to clinically support these students.
It is always edifying when professionals in the same field can come together to learn new things from one another to improve what is being offered to teens in treatment.
About Moonridge Academy
Moonridge Academy (located in Cedar City, UT) is a premier residential treatment center for younger girl ages 11-15 years. Moonridge Academy specializes in healing trauma and addressing mental and emotional challenges using different therapeutic modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, Equine Therapy and Adventure Therapy. As a small program of only 16 students, Moonridge Academy allows for a high degree of individualization in both clinical and academic services. By combining a nurturing home-like environment with a sophisticated clinical approach, Moonridge Academy is tailored to meet specific needs and to assist students in developing coping skills and identity.