Orem, Utah - Telos' Chief Quality Officer and Primary therapist John Hall, LMFT was interviewed on the popular mental health treatment podcast, Wilderness Therapy and Residential Treatment Journey. During the interview, he discusses treatment for families who have mental health struggles and takes a closer look at Telos, and delves into the clinical process following Wilderness Therapy and role of treatment programs and parents in creating a safe landing. The title of Episode 6 is Middle Treatment Therapy and Research for Parents to Learn About and Use.
In addition, Hall covers the role of the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) in guiding and giving structure to the residential treatment industry. He also discusses the 10 Core Pillars of the Telos program. Due to time constraints, Hall only addresses two of the 10 pillars (Evidence-Based Treatment and Effective Parenting), however all 10 are critical to the day-to-day mental and business wellness of Telos.
Telos, like all treatment programs, has taken strict healthcare steps to protect the students and staff and Hall ends the podcast with a report on COVID-19 and the impact on treatment.
About Telos
Telos is located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in beautiful Orem, Utah. Available are two campuses specifically designed for teens and co-ed young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, social problems and learning differences. Caring staff use proven clinical therapies coupled with the power of healing relationships to promote deep, lasting change. The aim is to help students live principle-based lives characterized by insightful choices that promote clarity, healing, and direction. Telos is a unique, clinically-sophisticated, relationship-based treatment center for teens and young adults ages 13-26. For more information: info@telos.org or online at telos.org.
WABASH, Ind. – Compass Rose Academy has officially launched the Teaching-Family Model (TFM), an evidence-based model of care for treating children and teens in residential programs and other out-of-home therapeutic services. The TFM brings an established, internationally-recognized model for skills training and staff consultation in the residential treatment environment. TFM trains staff to teach youth social skills and uses a motivation system that is positive, strength-based while still holding youth accountable for their choices. As an organization committed to enriching the lives of children and families, Compass Rose Academy has adopted the TFM model with the hopes of improving treatment outcomes for the teen girls in the care of their facility.
“Launching this initiative is directly tied to improving the way we execute our mission and solidify our philosophy of care for years to come,” said Ron Evans, President & CEO at Compass Rose Academy. “The TFM is an investment that will propel our programs and services forward while effectively providing resources for teens and their families.”
The TFM program uses consistent, positive teaching moments to eliminate negative behaviors and equip students with the skills needed to succeed in life. The approach allows students to accept responsibility for their actions and learn behavioral skills through positive reinforcement for desirable behaviors. “The Teaching-Family Model is backed up by decades of research as being a strength-based and trauma-informed behavior management model,” said Mike Haarer, Vice President & Executive Director for Compass Rose Academy. “We are very excited about seeing the ever-lasting success and effects that this model will have on the teens and families in our care.”
The skills learned through the TFM will help youth interact more effectively with authority and improve relationships with adults. The skills will then translate to better parent-child interaction, improved school behavior following placement, and promote better work readiness.
In the United States, the TFM is used by some of the most prominent residential treatment facilities. It is also used in various other countries worldwide. TFM was just approved as an accreditation that will be recognized by the FFPSA (Family First Prevention Services Act) to meet the requirement to be a QRTP (Qualified Residential Treatment Program). All Compass Rose Academy staff members will be trained in TFM beginning immediately, with full implementation by the end of the year.
Calo Programs has been leading the field in neurotherapy, complex developmental trauma and residential treatment services since 2014. Their neurotherapy program has developed from the more common plug-and-play approach to a highly sophisticated and integrated therapeutic intervention that is part of the entire treatment plan. The integration involves the clinical department and its psychiatric services.
Calo uses quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) brain maps to help guide neurofeedback (NFB) and inform individual and family therapy. During their stay, a child receives a minimum of 3 qEEG brain maps. These results are brought to the attention of the entire treatment team. Calo’s on-site psychiatrist will consult with the on-site Clinical Neurotherapist to inform her medication management using the qEEG brain map data. This integration helps to provide a higher quality medication management, and a higher quality Neurotherapy training.
Calo Programs' neurotechnicians have ongoing on-site training with a Clinical Neurotherapist who has over 16 years of experience working with neurotherapy and trauma. The Clinical Neurotherapist oversees all cases and applies not only his expertise in neurotherapy, but also his clinical experience to each case, making it very easy to integrate NFB with the clinical departments. Since he is on-site and part of the treatment team, it allows for the relational element with residents that is critical for healing trauma.
Another benefit of having an advanced Clinical Neurotherapist on site is that Calo can turn the brain map into a therapeutic experience for both the parents and the child. Because of this, the brain map results becomes part of the therapeutic process. This can only happen with a practitioner with ample experience and knowledge in both the neurotherapy field and the clinical field.
One of the challenges with adding a comprehensive NFB regimen to a facility for complex developmental trauma is that it is easy to be lulled into a false sense of hope. NFB is alluring for those seeking the magic bullet to trauma. Many want to believe that there is a quick fix to our problems. Thankfully, Calo Programs neurofeedback curriculum has developed past this perceptional challenge and has moved beyond this pit fall towards a synergistic relationship between all of its therapeutic modalities and has implemented highly specific and integrative methods for healing.
One of the other great features about Calo’s neurotherapy is that there is no extra cost to the parents. It is an inclusive part of every student's experience at Calo. Other facilities' neurotherapy programs will push those cost onto the parents, or connect students with outpatient providers who have little to no contact with the student's primary therapist.
Not only does the program use the tried and true neurotherapy interventions but it also utilizes cutting edge technologies, always pushing the envelope for more advanced interventions to improve the overall quality of care. This is possible because of the on-site Clinical Neurotherapist engages in research and investigation of new technologies that are always coming onto the market.
Calo Programs has integrated a sophisticated and advanced neurotherapy program at the residential treatment level, and will continue to lead the way in implementing cutting-edge therapies and interventions for the treatment of trauma.
About Calo Programs
Calo Programs is a unique organization comprised of an extraordinary family of programs, all dedicated to healing the effects of early trauma. Calo is a leading network of clinical and therapeutic programs that offers a comprehensive set of services focused on cutting edge, trauma-based interventions.
All Calo programs implement a unique and truly relational treatment model based on the science of neurobiology and evidence-based attachment and trauma treatment research. Calo’s proprietary Developmental Trauma CASA Treatment Model and Clinical Structure is pervasive throughout the programs. The unique model facilitates establishing, deepening and maintaining healthy and safe relationships that ultimately lead to co-regulation and joy.
Atlanta, GA – The adolescent residential mental health treatment program of Skyland Trail, a nationally recognized nonprofit psychiatric treatment organization, is now in-network with most plans offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield. Effective August 15, 2020, Blue Cross Blue Cross Blue Shield provides in-network coverage for Skyland Trail adolescent treatment programs including residential treatment and day treatment.
Blue Cross Blue Shield is the first insurance provider to cover a portion of treatment costs in adolescent residential treatment services at Skyland Trail, which opened in October 2019. The Skyland Trail admissions team works with in-network insurance providers to secure authorization before admission into treatment services.
“This is a great day for our adolescent treatment program at the J. Rex Fuqua campus,” said Beth Finnerty, President and CEO of Skyland Trail. “Being in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield means more adolescents and their families will have access to life-changing psychiatric treatment.”
The cost of treatment reflects Skyland's evidence-based individualized therapies, expert multidisciplinary treatment team, holistic hands-on and expressive therapies, integrated nutrition and healthy living activities, and respectful facilities. Costs vary depending on the level of care required and the number of days needed to complete treatment. Through generous donors, Skyland Trail is also able to offer financial aid to clients and families who meet need-based criteria.
Skyland Trail provides up-front financial counseling for each client and family. Financial counselors help clients and families estimate their overall financial responsibility as part of the admissions process.
About Skyland Trail
Located in Atlanta, Skyland Trail is a nationally recognized nonprofit mental health treatment organization serving adults and adolescents with a primary psychiatric diagnosis. Through our residential and day treatment programs, we help our clients grow, recover, and reclaim their lives. We’re focused on individuals with complex mental health issues, helping them understand that they can be – and are – more than a diagnosis. We offer expert, evidence-based psychiatric care alongside a compassionate, holistic path to wellness. Our integrated mental, medical, and social model helps clients develop strategies to improve mental health, physical wellness, independence, and relationships with family and friends. Unique therapies offered include music, art and horticultural therapy; workforce and school readiness; primary care services; family therapy; and healthy living and nutrition coaching.
Eagle's Rest Ranch is pleased to announce the opening of Eagle’s Rest Ranch as a member of the HOPE Group, based in Cedar City, UT. Eagle’s Rest Ranch is a residential treatment center that specializes in helping young women from ages 14 to 18 who are struggling with severe trauma and attachment issues.
Eagle’s Rest Ranch is located west of Cedar City on 160 beautiful acres. Its campus contains a beautiful custom home that will house 16 young women as well as a barn, bunkhouse, and pond. The program is planning on admitting clients in August 2020.
“We could not be more excited to announce the opening of Eagle’s Rest Ranch and to make it available to struggling girls as a peaceful and beautiful place to heal.” Eric Allred, Executive Director.
The leadership at Legacy Outdoor Adventures for Men and Juniper Canyon Recovery Center for Women has begun to speak out within the industry about the ability of therapeutic programs to handle a crisis like COVID-19. In webinars, virtual conferences, and Zoom calls among colleagues, the folks at the forefront of Legacy Treatment Center programs’ response to COVID-19 are offering advice and reflection. It boils down to this: the ability to handle COVID-19 starts at the top with healthy leadership.
For leadership at any program or organization, COVID-19 will fundamentally challenge how to engage with the entire team and cultivate a strong culture. In the long term, this situation may present an opportunity to think about how to elevate communications, create a more resilient workforce, and build more focus on health and well-being for employees and clients. There is also a need for inter-program collaboration and support systems; over the last few weeks, the Legacy team has stepped up and provided insight into their process, to assist other therapeutic and wilderness programs in navigating these uncertain times.
On a recent call with industry leaders, Legacy co-founder Derek Daley provided some insight: “It is important to remember that this crisis will pass and that there will be others in the future. We can prepare, be rational, and even altruistic in response. There is and will always be disruption. AND there will always be recovery. How we (program leadership) act in this time of crisis will inform the long-term impact we have on our community.”
Executive Director Gil Hallows explains that in moments of uncertainty and concern, it’s not only what leaders do but equally HOW they do it that matters. Legacy Treatment Center (Legacy Outdoor Adventures for Men and Juniper Canyon Recovery Center for Women) leadership took the bold step of adding an additional mission statement to help navigate this crisis: "We will SAFELY do everything within our power to continue to admit clients and to keep all of our team members employed." They did this with the intention of communicating to all those who they are responsible to (clients and staff) and to acknowledge the risk and uncertainty of the moment.
Daley recently collaborated with NATSAP (National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs) on a webinar addressing the complications for programs during the pandemic. One of the things he presented on was a framework organization can use to navigate a crisis like COVID-19. Aspects of the framework include establishing a crisis response leadership team, confirming critical roles/responsibilities and contingency plans, and evaluating how the format of one's program may have to shift during the specific time of crisis.
At the end of the day, a crisis like COVID-19 has the potential to have devastating impacts on work-place culture. Together programs must recognize that these are moments that matter: how leadership reacts now has the potential to leave a legacy over the long term. As the industry collectively handles COVID19, Legacy Treatment Center is committed to caring for the health and well-being of their employees and clients, and also playing a positive role in supporting industry programs, colleagues and professionals.
It’s not that you should always put people first in a time of crisis, it’s that you should always put people first. Period.
Legacy Outdoor Adventures and Juniper Canyon Recovery Center are licensed Residential Treatment Facilities for adult men and women. They are also premier wilderness therapy programs for adults. For more information contact Admissions at (866) 436-4458.
Solstice East, a residential treatment center for girls ages 14-18, is excited to announce the promotion of Danielle Andrews, (MA, LCMHC, CFTP) into the Clinical Director role. Danielle will also serve as the Clinical Director at Journey Home East, Solstice’s step-down program for young women ages 16-21. Previously, Danielle served as the Director of Transitional Services for both programs, assisting families transitioning from residential treatment into real-world living. She has been an essential member of the Solstice Programs since 2014 and brings into her new role an intrinsic working knowledge of the Solstice East and Journey Home East programs.
“Solstice has a deep commitment to empowering and equipping families, not solely its students, with the confidence, knowledge, and skills to succeed within its program and beyond following treatment,” says Clinical Director Danielle Andrews. “I look forward to growing along with Solstice East and Journey Home East in the Clinical Director position by continually holding myself and others to a higher standard of values and striving for the best in myself and my team.”
Before pursuing her deeper passion for helping adolescents and their families, Danielle worked for 12 years in the business sector specializing in Labor/Employee Relations, Leadership Development, Mediation, Collective Bargaining, and Employment Law. Since 2008, Danielle has worked enthusiastically with adolescents, young adults, and families in wilderness programs, private practice, schools, and treatment settings. In 2014, Danielle developed an aftercare program for Solstice East graduates and their families - one of the first programs of its kind. She joined Solstice East full-time shortly after, as its first Aftercare Specialist and has since helped hundreds of families on their path to transitioning home.
As a therapist, Danielle specializes in helping young women struggling with complex PTSD, attachment issues, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and failure to launch into independence. She is also EMDR trained and certified as a Family Trauma Professional (CFTP).
“Danielle has been able to combine her experience in conflict resolution, systemic change management, and counseling, among other areas of knowledge, into enthusiastically working with our adolescents and their families,” says Executive Director Rick Pollard. “She brings a wealth of experience into her new role."
About Solstice East
Solstice East is a residential treatment center for young women ages 14-17 nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains just outside of Asheville, North Carolina. Solstice East is committed to treating each student through a combination of individual, family, equine, and adventure therapies as well as treating and diagnosing a range of issues including (but not limited to) trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, self-harming behaviors, attachment, and identity issues. Solstice East assists adolescents and their families in developing excellence in relationships, influence, character, and health throughout their life journey. Our holistic approach acknowledges that mental health diagnoses are only one piece of the puzzle; we strive to help young women succeed in multiple areas of their lives.
Healthy living is one of the five core principles at Journey Home East’s step-down program for young women ages 16-21. Learning how to take care of oneself both physically and emotionally is integral to the life coaching that residents receive at the program. As part of Journey Home’s commitment to holistic therapy, Mary Bolgan has joined the team as Fitness Coordinator, responsible for planning and leading workouts and outdoor activities for residents.
Mary is excited to combine her love of fitness and mental health in her new role as Fitness Coordinator at Journey Home. Mary received her bachelor’s degree in public health with a minor in psychology from the University of South Carolina in 2017. She was a member of USC’s varsity swim team during her freshman year, and, following her retirement from swimming, she took an interest in distance running. Mary has recently found a passion for weightlifting and functional fitness, which led to her becoming a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine this past February.
Mary has always had a passion for the mental health field and started working at Journey Home's sister program, Solstice East, in March. Working at Solstice has inspired Mary to go back to school this fall to pursue her master's degree in social work. Being an active member of the Asheville recovery community herself, Mary is passionate about helping others incorporate fitness into their recovery; rediscovering her love of fitness has played a key role in her own recovery.
“We are so grateful for Mary’s expertise regarding the intersection of fitness and mental health, and we are excited to see the impact she has on our in-house wellness programming,” says Journey Home East Program Director, Kaitlyn Keller. “Adopting a healthier overall lifestyle gives our students the tools to prepare them to deal with various stressors. Exercise is a great way for residents to connect, explore their interests, and recognize their strengths.”
About Journey Home East
Journey Home East is a transitional living program serving females ages 16-21 in the artistic semi-urban community of downtown Asheville, NC. We provide around the clock structure and support for young women learning everyday skills in preparation for real-world living. Our residential program, led by a team of experienced and compassionate professionals, assists residents with all aspects of daily life including budgeting and financial planning; managing free time and electronic device consumption; relationship building and growing boundaries; health, hygiene, and personal safety; applying for jobs; school studies; shopping for groceries and cooking meals; and more. Clients enrolling at Journey Home East have had previous therapeutic placement and require transitional housing prior to independence. We provide all residents with continued therapeutic support to assist them on their life journey.
It had been almost two years since they last worked together, but it is a pleasure to announce that Betsy Warren and Chesley Strowd have re-joined forces at Sedona Sky Academy. Previously the two worked together off and on at a therapeutic boarding school since January 2003. Together, they have 40 years' combined experience working in therapeutic programs.
Betsy Warren, who has helped create and served as director of various therapeutic boarding schools became Executive Director of Sedona Sky Academy almost two years ago and has undeniably helped create solidarity and cohesiveness with the amazing team of clinical, academic, and residential staff. Betsy’s extensive experience has gone a long way in shaping the mission and programming at Sedona Sky Academy.
Chesley Strowd's background is in residential care, admissions and marketing at therapeutic programs and also as a therapist in both a therapeutic boarding school and in private practice. Chesley joined Betsy at SSA in a dual role as Marketing & Outreach Director and Certified Parent Coach just before the pandemic in early March as a way to combine her knowledge, experience and desire to reconnect with program and referring professionals.
Chesley shares, “When Betsy reached out to me about assisting with marketing efforts to spread the word about SSA’s attachment-based, relational clinical model, it only made sense! It’s a model that is truly relational versus behavioral, which is a must in working with our students who have experienced trauma or disrupted attachment. Betsy and I work well together and share a similar vision of excellence in therapeutic programs”. Betsy Warren, Executive Director says, “ I am incredibly excited about teaming up with Chesley once again. She is dedicated, professional and a joy to work with. It’s great to be reunited in our work”. The two are genuinely excited to be working together again in a whole new partnership with a dedicated and cohesive clinical, academic and residential team.
While the pre-pandemic plan was for Chesley and Betsy to travel together and reconnect with all of the amazing professionals who serve students and families, they’ve instead enjoyed hosting a multitude of Virtual Tours and Meetings with SSA’s Leadership Team. So far they’ve hosted roughly 30 educational consultant and parent virtual tours and meetings in the last few months, and continue to have many more scheduling to join them through this platform. Many consultants have reported being pleasantly surprised to hear about the wonderful and positive changes implemented at SSA.
The SSA team truly values the working relationships they’ve created with educational consultants and wilderness therapists all over the country and are expanding their outreach to those who may not be familiar with the Sedona Sky Academy of today.
For questions or to schedule a virtual meeting/tour with our team, please contact Chesley at cstrowd@sedonasky.org or 541-419-8137.
Sedona Sky Academy provides a relational-based model for trauma and attachment issues with the clinical sophistication of a Residential Treatment Center, the feel of a Therapeutic Boarding School and the academic rigor of a Traditional Boarding School, with the ability to also accommodate those with learning challenges.
SSA intentionally provides developmentally appropriate programming with both a Middle School Program for ages 11-14 and High School Program for ages 14-18. This emotionally safe and experiential approach targets the limbic system where trauma is stored and allows for deep healing resulting in positive connections and development of internal sources for resilience. SSA supports and empowers students and the entire family to reconnect and heal in this parallel process. Sedona Sky Academy holds Joint Commission Accreditation and is accredited by NIPSA and Cognia, is licensed by the Arizona Department of Health, is a full NATSAP member and SEVIS approved.
Momentum Recovery is pleased to welcome a new Family Therapist to their team, Beth Barrington! Beth is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Tennessee, and a Board Certified-telemental Health Provider. Beth specializes in codependency, trauma, anxiety and depression, and passionately works through the lens of experiential and psychodrama therapies in sessions with her clients.
Beth will be providing family therapy services to Momenum Recovery clients and their families through a video-based platform, which has improved the quality, ease, and accessibility of family services provided. Beth also uses her incredible skill set to facilitate intensives for families and couples around the world through her contract work with a well-known trauma treatment program. Video-based telemental counseling has allowed Momentum to increase the level of support and education they provide on addiction and recovery to the family members of our clients residing worldwide.
In addition, Momentum Recovery’s clinical team has recently launched a weekly video-based Family Support Meeting as well. This meeting provides a space for families to come together to develop and expand their peer support, strengthen their connection and relationships with clinical team members and one another, and increase their knowledge and understanding of addiction and recovery while gaining insight into their own parallel process as well.
Momentum Recovery is located in Wilmington, NC. We specialize in encouraging passionate living and forward progress in the lives of young adults who have struggled with addiction and co-occurring mental health difficulties. We achieve this through highly individualized, all-inclusive programing and unlimited access to our highly trained staff.
BOULDER, COLO. [August 6, 2020] – Choice House, a treatment program for men struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health issues, named Michael Seeley the clinical director of the center’s intensive outpatient program.
Seeley recently obtained his doctorate in psychology (Psy. D.) from California Southern University, where he studied addiction from a complex trauma perspective. A licensed professional counselor (LPC), Seeley has more than 25 years of experience treating mental health conditions and substance abuse disorders. He also holds a master’s degree in professional counseling from Liberty University in Virginia.
A Denver native, Seeley joined Choice House in July 2019 as a therapist with the intensive outpatient program. He has ample, invaluable experience facilitating group therapy as well as counseling for individuals, couples, and families.
“Michael’s expertise combines a deep understanding of the struggles associated with substance abuse with evidence-based knowledge about the most effective treatments in use today,” said Jordan Hamilton, Executive Director and Co-owner of Choice House. “At Choice House, we firmly believe that ongoing professional development significantly strengthens our ability to provide the highest standard of care for those who struggle with addiction. We know those in our intensive outpatient program will continue to thrive under Michael’s guidance.”
Choice House treatment options include a 90-day residential treatment program, intensive outpatient program (IOP), and structured sober living for men with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. Experienced addiction and trauma certified clinical staff create a healthy, healing environment to support each individual’s unique path to long-term sobriety.
About Choice House
Colorado-based Choice House is Boulder County’s premier provider of 90-day residential treatment, long-term structured sober living, and intensive outpatient services. The treatment center helps support those on their road to lasting recovery with a strong focus on the beautiful Colorado outdoors. Learn more at choicehousecolorado.com.
Greenbrier Academy for Girls is excited to announce the appointment of two dedicated Greenbrier therapists to the positions of Clinical Director and Assistant Clinical Director.
Tanya McClung, MA, LPC was appointed Clinical Director at the end of June after serving as a primary therapist for the last 10 years. Her knowledge and understanding of the Greenbrier therapeutic model has made the transition to her new role seamless. As Clinical Director, Tanya has solidified the communication methods and frequency with families and educational consultants, and is focused on leading the Treatment Teams to better serve the students.
“I’m excited to further the Greenbrier mission of empowering staff and students as Greenbrier’s new Clinical Director,” Tanya says. “My goal is to strengthen collaboration within our organization and initiate transformation in the lives of the students we serve. I am grateful to be a witness to the great healing that occurs in our community.”
Greenbrier’s new Assistant Clinical Director, Stacey Lambert, MSW, LGSW, has been a primary therapist with the program since 2017. Her diverse background includes working in schools, providing in-home services, outpatient mental health and working with victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence. As Assistant Clinical Director, Stacey will take an active role communicating with educational consultants and families during the admissions process. She looks forward to supporting and training staff on the Greenbrier model and specific interventions that promote long-term change.
“The energy on our campus promotes healing, healthy relationships, and for many students they experience what it is like to be in healthy relationships with peers and adults for the first time in their lives,” Stacey says. “I love that I get to help these young women connect with the best parts of themselves, and I will continue to advocate our therapeutic model in this new position.”
Rachel Call, the Executive Director/CEO of Greenbrier Academy, is excited about the new appointments, as well. “Tanya and Stacey have both shown exceptional leadership ability and a deep understanding of how Greenbrier works as an immersive program. We’re excited to have them leading our clinical team and are confident they will only make our program stronger,” she says.
About Greenbrier Academy for Girls
Greenbrier is a therapeutic boarding school with an immersive program specifically designed to reestablish core beliefs. This is done through the collaborative effort of experiences, therapy, academics and a supportive community of sisterhood.
WinGate Wilderness Therapy program announces its 12th-year-anniversary as a leader in the wilderness therapy industry.
Twelve years ago this summer, Shayne and Sheri Gallagher brought their unique vision, and sixty years of combined therapeutic experience to Southern Utah, and founded WinGate Wilderness Therapy. Set in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, WinGate is a dynamic therapeutic program providing hope and healing for struggling youth, young adults, and their families.
WinGate’s distinctive brand of therapy focuses on a relational model, creative intervention, and wilderness setting in order to offer an unparalleled therapeutic experience. WinGate’s multidisciplinary clinical team, and compassionate and caring staff create a healthy and safe environment in which students learn healthy coping skills, build self-esteem, and overcome challenges, in order to create lasting change and live their happiest life.
As of this writing, WinGate has provided help and support for 2,442 students and their families. Of this amazing benchmark, co-founder Sheri Gallagher said, “We feel honored to have served these families and look forward to the families we have yet to serve.”
For more information on WinGate Wilderness Therapy visit: https://www.wingatewildernesstherapy.com
About WinGate Wilderness Therapy
WinGate is a therapeutic wilderness program located in southern Utah, in the Grand Staircase National Monument. The program provides personalized treatment for teens, ages 14-17; and young adults, ages 18 and over. WinGate passionately provides the best clinical service and highest quality of care in treating those who are struggling and need support. WinGate specializes in treating a range of issues, including (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment, failure to launch, substance abuse, and mal-coping mechanisms. WinGate believes that establishing a respectful, and caring relationship with clients, allows for dynamic and lasting growth.
8/10/2020, Raleigh, North Carolina - Green Hill Recovery has become Addiction Professionals of North Carolina’s (APNC) newest organizational member. APNC is North Carolina’s leading professional development organization in the substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery field. As a member organization, Green Hill supports APNC’s mission of empowering professionals focused on prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery through providing education, training, and networking opportunities throughout the state.
Tripp Johnson, CEO of Green Hill, is proud to be joining APNC. “This is a tough, often thankless, line of work. Professionals in the addiction field are often overwhelmed, under-resourced, and siloed. We joined APNC because we believe that community partnerships, training, and education are paramount if we want to combat the growing epidemic of mental health and substance use disorders.”
APNC represents the interests of over 16,000 addiction professionals throughout North Carolina by providing advocacy, training, and networking opportunities. Green Hill believes that in supporting APNC, it can help in the following ways.
- Support a thriving community of professionals through education and training.
- Advocate for legislative change to support individuals battling addiction.
- Encourage innovation and collaboration in the field.
- Increase access, quality, and affordability of prevention, treatment, and recovery resources.
Green Hill and APNC are dedicated to bettering the lives of North Carolinians struggling with substance use disorders. More announcements will be coming soon about APNC’s upcoming fall conference where Green Hill’s CEO, Tripp Johnson, will be presenting.
About Green Hill Recovery
Green Hill Recovery is a nationally recognized treatment provider for young adults grappling with substance use and other co-occurring mental health disorders. Green Hill prepares clients for success beyond their days in treatment through sophisticated addiction, mental health, and executive functioning treatment; intentional community integration, experiential, and wellness offerings; and individualized academic, career, and personal growth curriculum. At its core, Green Hill empowers individuals to live with profound purpose. For more information, visit www.greenhillrecovery.com or call us at 984-204-1106.
About APNC: Addiction Professionals of North Carolina (APNC) empowers our prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery professionals to thrive in an evolving continuum of care.
To learn more about APNC, click here.
Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness believes that providing students with academic coursework helps to establish an integrated, superior wilderness experience. Blue Ridge has created a unique curriculum in which academics and course credits are available to clients in grades 9 through 12. Their mission is to afford challenging academic opportunities to students receiving their therapeutic services. Blue Ridge is accredited by AdvancEd Accreditation Commission – a non-profit, non-governmental organization that accredits primary and secondary schools throughout the country. This program is based on a 90-hour curriculum that covers four subjects: English, Psychology, Environmental Science, and Physical Education.
The addition of coursework creates a natural pathway towards increased resiliency while allowing for a more comprehensive clinical assessment of each individual’s capabilities. Blue Ridge students have the opportunity to earn up to 2 credits during their stay– support for which is provided by their field instructors and therapist. Typically, course content is relevant and easily applicable to students’ daily activities in the program—the wilderness affords a novel and compelling environment for students to observe nature in their Environmental Science coursework, practice mindfulness for Psychology credits, or fulfill Physical Education requirements through hiking and tracking their water intake.
Students and their families will work with their therapist, the Academic Coordinator, and field instructors to determine if pursuing academic credit is right for them while in the program. In some cases, the treatment team assesses that the student may require more attention in other, non-academic areas in order to thrive in the wilderness setting. Should this become the case, the therapist may advise that the student defers the completion of their academic coursework until it becomes more clinically appropriate. Blue Ridge does this to ensure that the mental and physical well-being of each student is prioritized while maintaining clinical momentum. The Blue Ridge treatment team encourages all suitable clients to participate in their hands-on academic curriculum in order to maintain scholastic success as they pursue a comprehensive therapeutic experience in the wilderness.
About Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness
Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness (BRTW) founded in 2002 as a licensed wilderness therapy program that offers clinically driven wilderness therapy programs encompassing advanced therapeutic skills, a highly flexible nomadic wilderness therapy model, licensed wilderness therapy assessment and multiple treatment options for struggling teens ages 13-18 as well as young adults ages 18-30 in their Emerald Arrow program. Their individualized approach, family support, and commitment to service translate to an unparalleled experience and better outcomes for adolescents and families.
On July 31 the Therapeutic Consultant Association hosted a two-hour training with Dare2Rise for its members. The goal of this training was to expand their analysis of systemic and institutionalized racism and how it relates to the Family Choice Behavioral Healthcare Industry.
The two-hour training had 30 participants. The panelists included Judith Sadora, Johnny Knatt, Alexandria Ravenel and Tracy Hopkins.
Hopkins from Dare2Rise said “The format of this training was designed for two critical components to occur, to guide consultants in achieving this goal; learning from those who are impacted on what the issues are and hearing how one can play a role in perpetuating systemic/institutionalized racism”.
The TCA members and panelists engaged in critical conversations aimed at understanding the issues and developing a process where they can learn from experts and work together on best practices for Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) client populations.
Hopkins pointed out, “Too often, I see white people jump too quickly from awareness to action and skip the crucial step of expanding their analysis. If one does not become aware of how they may be part of the issue nor pause to know what the core issues are by asking those who are impacted, the solutions that typically get implemented end up being performative, unsustainable, and/or harmful for those whose identities include BIPOC”.
The TCA has formed a Diversity committee that will continue to evaluate their thinking and work to promote more training and education as well as advocate for change. The TCA has issued a statement on structural racism and their goals as a professional organization:
The TCA is acknowledging the implications of historical structural racism in the USA. As an organization, we are dedicated to deepening our learning and facilitating critical conversations about diversity, inclusion and social justice as it relates to the mental health of our clients and professional community. The TCA along with our treatment partners, programs, and the broader treatment community will work to develop best practices for our work with BIPOC populations. Moving forward TCA consultants will expect the mental health programs we work with to develop best practices and demonstrate cultural competency with our shared clients and families.
For more information on Dare2Rise, daretorise.org, contact Tracy Hopkins at tracyhopkins2@me.com
For more information on the TCA Diversity Committee contact Kathy Meyer at Kathy@PrepareToBloom.com
Despite the challenges of being an emerging adult living during a pandemic, Onward Transitions members are continuing to maintain jobs in Portland, Maine. With unemployment rates for young people nationwide hovering around 25%¹, cofounder and Executive Director Tracy Bailey reported that eight of the ten members of Onward Transitions living in Portland are working important jobs out in the community, while two are in school full-time. “We are extremely proud of the work our members are doing to manage their lives, their wellness and their contributions to the community,” stated Bailey. “Some are working nearly full-time in banking, food service, essential retail and delivery positions, and report maintaining the same level of diligence with COVID prevention that we have modeled here in the program for them.”
“Our members have done a fantastic job keeping balance in their lives as they cope with anxiety, while compelling themselves to safely remain connected to the outside world,” added cofounder and Lead Clinician Darrell Fraize, M.Ed., LCPC, LADC. “They have figured out how to best protect themselves from the virus while simultaneously protecting themselves from self-isolating. They see themselves as important contributors to the city here by providing valuable roles for essential services, and in turn, they exercise independent judgment through a very real ‘exposure’ into adulting.”
Staying connected to the world through work may be an important factor in battling pandemic-exacerbated mental health issues with anxiety and depression reported Fraize. A recent CDC survey found that 47% of people under the age of 30 are struggling with loneliness², but that work provides a valuable social environment for young adults to experience the stimulation of human interaction.
About Onward Transitions
Onward Transitions (OT) in Portland, ME is a small, independent, owner-operated program for bright, motivated, emerging adults in the final stages of learning to live on their own. OT supports actual sustainable independent living and autonomy from two city locations. Participants (members) ages 18-29 never live with us; they live in their own apartments, scattered throughout the city. Members' challenges include anxiety, depression and executive functioning.
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Summit Achievement now offers a continuum of care model with a seamless transition from Summit Achievement to Summit Traverse. Summit Achievement will now commit to holding a space for every client entering its wilderness segment in the Summit Traverse program on completion of wilderness. This will allow clients to keep up on academic work throughout the fall and, perhaps, the whole school year. Summit Achievement adapted in this way due to research, requests by referring professionals and families, as well as responding to novel challenges of the COVID 19 pandemic.
Summit’s research clearly shows that clients who complete their hybrid-wilderness program benefit from continuing to work with their wilderness therapist in a less structured program, one that has school five days per week and allows them to have week-long home visits to practice their newfound skills. Summit Achievement’s decision was driven by outcome data which indicated that clients who participated in both Summit Achievement and Summit Traverse had better outcomes at completion of treatment, 6-months, and 1 year after treatment compared to clients who participated only in Summit Achievement. The data sets studied are from parents and students from 2013 to 2020. Summit’s new continuum of care model will set up clients to be more successful upon returning home, to boarding school, or to college.
Summit Achievement, with its robust academic program that has been an essential ingredient of the program since 1996, has been inundated with calls from referring professionals and families about the need for more academic and therapeutic help for troubled young people as most have not attended classes since March, due to COVID 19. Summit Achievement understands that in these uncertain times it is helpful for parents and young people to minimize transitions and know that they will be in one place for several months working with a consistent team of providers, allowing them the opportunity to practice and refine the skills they learned in our hybrid-wilderness program.
Summit will still permit clients to do Achievement only, and admissions will still consider Traverse referrals that coming from other wilderness therapy programs.
About Summit Achievement
Summit Achievement is, and always has been, guided by positive reinforcement and the power of choice. Our outcome-focused program employs effective therapeutic and educational principles. Through the process of engaging therapy, classroom academics and exciting wilderness expeditions, students experience the therapeutic benefits of outdoor adventure-based activities while learning to manage the demands of a more traditional environment. As an intentionally small, owner-operated wilderness therapy program, we serve adolescent boys and girls, ages 13-20, from around the world.
Expanding on its long history of coaching college students, College Excel now offers remote coaching for students beginning their college experience this Fall across the country. For 17 years College Excel has supported students needing coaching support from their Bend, Oregon location. Additionally for the past 7 years, College Excel has provided remote coaching services to students who had recently transitioned to their next school placement. They will now extend that virtual support to students who are new to the program and need help developing study strategies, creating schedules, wellness plans, social engagement strategies, and much more from wherever that student is spending their Fall term. They’ll still be working with students in-person at their campus so this addition is a supplement to their standard services.
“Working with my coach remotely has been incredibly helpful during these weird times. College Excel made the coaching process simple and reliable and the support was just enough for my needs” said a student who continued working with College Excel remotely once the pandemic started.
College Excel will have students engaging in remote coaching at the start of the Fall term but they’re equipped to work with students at any stage of the semester or quarter. If a student finds that they need help after starting college on their own, they’re welcome to connect with the program and receive support before their performance suffers further. Remote coaching sessions are designed to fit into a student’s existing schedule. Pricing and details are available on the College Excel website. Amidst these unusual times it’s important for programs to provide alternative options to best serve changing student needs.
About College Excel
Founded in 2003, College Excel is the nation’s leading residential college support program located in beautiful Bend, Oregon. At College Excel, post-secondary adults (18+) with diverse learning needs requiring extra support are provided the structure they need to move forward, both academically and personally. Using a proprietary, blended coaching model rooted in Harvard research-based neurocoaching and behavioral coaching techniques, College Excel students receive daily support from a team of credentialed and experienced Academic and Student Life Coaches while earning transferable college credits.
Draper, Utah: Corner Canyon Recovery works with insurance companies to help cover the costs associated with treatment. Insurance plans can reduce or completely take care of the cost of treatment, and the Corner Canyon team is excellent at getting insurance reimbursements for clients. With a Verification Of Benefits (completed at the beginning of the admissions process) some clients may only need to bring in the admissions and testing fees, depending on the mental health and/or substance abuse benefits of their policy. Other clients may need to meet their deductibles before benefits begin to be reimbursed.
“Since opening Corner Canyon Recovery, 63% of our clients have utilized insurance as a means of payment, which has made treatment more attainable in many cases, and also reduce the stress of getting clients into treatment”, says Cheryl Kehl, CEO at Corner Canyon Recovery.
Benefits of using insurance benefits at Corner Canyon Recovery:
- Reduction in out of pocket costs
- Potential coverage includes paying deductible only if it hasn’t been met previously
- Quick turn around on Verification of Benefits process to determine client coverage, can usually take place within 10 minutes.
About Corner Canyon Recovery: To find out about your coverage, amount of payout and deductible, Corner Canyon makes the process simple for clients and families. Determining coverage is essentially a 3 step process.
First Step - Verification of Benefits
The first step in the process is completing the online “Verify Insurance” form. Corner Canyon's billing team will contact the insurance company and gather plans' benefits information: verify an active policy, substance abuse/mental health benefits, deductible and out of pocket for the plan, current deductible and out of pocket accumulations, and exclusions to the policy.
Second Step - Pre Admission Screening
Next, the admission team will contact the potential client and conduct a Pre-Admission Screening.
Corner Canyon's Clinical, Medical & Psych Teams review the screening and determine if they are a good fit for the client and if there is anything the client needs to do prior to coming in - e.g., detox.
Third Step - Pre Authorization
Corner Canyon's billing team will then take the pre-admission screening and contact your insurance company in order to obtain prior authorization for treatment, to determine if the client meets the insurance company's criteria to be admitted into a residential facility.
Once this is completed, the client is admitted to the facility and treatment begins.
Corner Canyon Recovery works with many insurance companies to help supplement or pay for treatment. Many health insurance plans allow for coverage of Inpatient care, Medical Detox, Co-Occurring Addiction and Mental Health, and Outpatient care. Each plan can be different in the amount of payout or length of stay, but generally, providers include coverage for approved treatment facilities.
Earlier this year, Montana Academy's founders announced a new chapter for the therapeutic boarding school, in operation in Northwest Montana since 1997. This was an announcement of the founders' transition to retirement and a new chapter for Montana Academy as a not-for-profit entity. Since then, Montana Academy has been operating under the guidance of a seven-person Leadership Team while having the support of a diverse and widely experienced Board of Directors made up of alumni parents and other professionals who bring valuable perspective from a variety of fields. This partnership has been collaborative, cohesive and energizing in continuing Montana Academy's academic excellence and its clinical sophistication.
With this era comes Montana Academy's new look. Over the past year, Montana Academy has revisited its mission, its culture and its community all with the goal of being able to share this with others in an authentic way. Montana Academy is proud of the work and invites you all to visit at www.montanaacademy.org.
Established in 1997, Montana Academy is a non-profit, co-educational, therapeutic boarding school located in Northwest Montana. The leadership and staff at Montana Academy bring more than 175 combined years of cumulative experience to students and their families. Montana Academy's approach places character development at the heart of its developmental model in helping young men and women mature. Montana Academy's community is one that combines an array of therapeutics, college-preparatory academics, and a robust offering of experiential and skill-building programmatic opportunities.
Elements Wilderness Program and Elements Traverse are proud to announce that Kate Brown has now stepped into the role of Admissions Director. Kate has been working in the Family Choice Behavioral Healthcare field for 16 years, starting at Passages to Recovery and Aspen Achievement Academy in 2004, then working at The Oakley School before joining the team at Elements in 2015. “Kate’s arrival at Elements was a real turning point for all of us in Admissions,” says John Karren, owner and cofounder of Elements. “Since the day she arrived, she has helped us create systems and organization that have taken our operation to a new level. We are so proud to have her in this role since she has long been qualified to do the job. We are now giving her the title she deserves, but I’m not going anywhere. I will still be doing full-time admissions work as well as serving on the Elements board, but Kate is now taking the reins of the department.”
Kate officially took over in July. “I’ve been working in and alongside wilderness for 16 years, and I really love what Elements is doing,” says Kate. “My experience at other programs informs my perspective that Elements is unique and the work we are doing is really special. I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of this team, and honored by the trust they place in me every day to support families in crisis. I am humbled by this opportunity to step into the role of Admissions Director and thrilled that John is not going anywhere as his shoes are impossible to fill. My hope is to make my own footprint next to his.”
Kate and John are both available to speak in-depth about the transition and anything regarding admissions, at 866.542.2252.
Elements Wilderness Program and Elements Traverse are licensed and accredited Outdoor Behavioral Health Programs operating in the red rock desert and high alpine regions of central Utah. They serve adolescents aged 13-17 and adults aged 18-30, respectively, utilizing a combination of experiential psychoeducation, Seven Challenges for substance use and addictive behaviors, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills development to help clients find a healthy path forward.
New Focus Academy, a therapeutic residential program and specialized school for adolescent boys ages 12-18, is excited to announce that they are expanding their Autonomy House. Students will be moving to a larger space that can now accommodate up to 12 students, located a short distance from their main campus.
The Autonomy House plays a very important role in New Focus Academy's programming. After several months as a resident in the program, students between the ages of 15 and 18 have the option to transition to the Autonomy House, where they have additional program privileges and more opportunities for independence. "We are so excited that the Autonomy House will now be available to more students," says Dr. Brandon Park, Executive Director at New Focus Academy.
While living at the Autonomy House, the focus of treatment becomes how to prepare for independent living and success later in life when they are a college student or employee at a company, while continuing to develop the social skills and emotional intelligence needed to thrive in school and in life. The proximity to the main campus was an important factor.
"Working on a transition home can present unique challenges for our neurodiverse students. That is why the proximity to our main campus is so important, in order to allow students the flexibility to transition back to the main campus whenever it is needed," says Dr. Park."We are so grateful for all who have supported our program over the past couple of years. New Focus Academy is expanding and changing, and we couldn't be more excited about this growth."
For more information about New Focus Academy, please visit https://newfocusacademy.com/ or call (844) 313-6749.
New Focus Academy is a therapeutic residential treatment program for adolescent boys ages 12-18 with neurodevelopmental disorders. Located in Heber City, Utah, just outside of Salt Lake City, New Focus Academy prepares struggling teen boys for a purpose-filled, independent life. New Focus Academy creates an environment of success using a positive reinforcement approach and empowering students to take small steps leading to big changes and overall wellness.
To learn more about New Focus Academy, visit https://newfocusacademy.com/our-approach or call the program at (844) 313-6749.
Building Bridges, a program for adolescent males in Montana, is proud to announce they have recently completed transitioning their licensing to that of a Chemical Dependency Treatment Center. The new licensing allows them to continue the great work they have always done, but adds a more direct and regulated ability to handle dual diagnosis and gives parents more access to insurance funding. Substance work with adolescent boys has always been a priority for Building Bridges and doing so in conjunction with clinical therapy is part of what has helped them excel for over two decades. The CDTC license encompasses all the work they do and is a great fit for Building Bridges.
The structure will continue to be that of a Therapeutic Boarding School, which has been in place for over 24 years. In order to provide the quality that goes along with this license and in addition to the two licensed therapists, the program has a Licensed Addiction Counselor, on the staff to work with the students. It is important to understand what a LAC does and all the works it takes to obtain. Montana has one of the strictest requirements for this licensure. It takes not only having a degree, but several educational credited hours including but not limited to counseling, substance knowledge as well as hours in multiple cultural constancy. This is in addition to the 1000 hours of supervised addiction counseling in a qualified treatment program.
The students start with attending school on the program's campus with the goal to have the boys eventually attend public school. Alongside academics, substance therapy and having a complete Summer Adventure Program that has eight weeks of being outdoors in the beautiful landscape that is Montana rounds out the diversity of the structure. Their passion is creating a structure that mirrors real life so when students move on to their next step whether that be to return home, a traditional boarding school or college they have already experienced transition.
Contact Sarah Fairbank safairbank@buildingbridgesinc.net or call (406) 827-9853 in admissions if you have any questions about the new license or have a referral to Building Bridges.
Noted psychologist, author, and founder of Evoke Therapy Programs, Dr. Brad Reedy releases his second book, The Audacity to Be You: Learning to Love Your Horrible, Rotten Self, as an audiobook this month available on Amazon, Audible, and iTunes. It’s the perfect balm for a society forced into the uncharted emotional waters of a worldwide pandemic and quarantine.
A therapist with 25 years of clinical practice behind him, Dr. Reedy has worked with a variety of people from imprisoned sex offenders to celebrities to parents struggling to keep their troubled kids safe and alive. Yet through this diversity of cases, Dr. Reedy sees one common journey: how we can work to process our past wounds, forgive ourselves for our shortcomings, and ultimately love our Self, exactly as it is… even when it seems horrible and rotten. His book is a bold roadmap to finding our own humanity, and in the process, learning to see and value everyone else’s. “The result of this work is freedom and peace and a greater capacity to love yourself. When you accept yourself, your interactions with Others won’t be in the service of proving your goodness and worthiness. Instead, you use your energy for loving them,” he says.
Miles Adcox, Onsite CEO, praises the work as a "must-read for any parent" and Harriet Lerner, author of The Dance of Anger, calls Dr. Reedy a "gentle, authentic, and wise guide."
Dr. Reedy’s unabating passion is helping people to live better lives through a brand of self-acceptance that leads to a powerful inner peace. In this time of nearly unprecedented global anxiety, his voice arises as a calm, confident guide to a better way. The book is infused with a blend of clinical research, stories from his own experiences as a lifelong therapy recipient, practical tools, and fascinating case studies from some of the thousands of clients he has treated. His kind, conversational style makes the work accessible to all, not just those in the self-help community.
“Like most people, I was taught the lie that I have to pretend to be someone I’m not to be accepted and loved,” says actress Emily Baldoni. “Dr. Reedy’s work has helped me unpack that lie and to explore what’s underneath: the real stuff. I’m also learning that this is how I find my innate goodness and beauty. This is what it means to be whole. This is freedom. I’m deeply grateful for this work as I can’t think of a greater gift to pass on to my children."
Dr. Reedy is the co-founder and clinical director of Evoke Therapy Programs and a pioneer in the Wilderness Therapy movement. Earlier in his career, as co-owner of Second Nature Wilderness, he created one of the leading treatment programs in the U.S. He is the host of the podcast Finding You, regularly contributes to Psychology Today, and frequently serves as a mental health expert for broadcast and print media outlets. He consults and speaks internationally, and has delivered keynote addresses at numerous conferences and universities. In addition, he speaks at parent education conferences, symposiums, and workshops.
Dr. Reedy served on the board of the Utah Department of Child and Family Services and the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs. He graduated magna cum laude from Brigham Young University, with a B.S. in Family Science, and later, a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy.
About Evoke Therapy Programs
Evoke Therapy Programs provides both outdoor-based therapeutic programs for adolescents, young adults and families and Intensive therapy programs for individuals, families, and couples. Evoke is accredited by the AEE/OBH and is a NATSAP Research Designated Program. Evoke’s outdoor programs are based in Bend, Oregon and in Saint George, Utah. Evoke’s Intensive Therapy programs are in northern Utah.
“You have to fail in order to succeed… I’ve missed over 500 shots, but people only remember the ones that went in to win the game” Michael Jordan.
Michael Jordan said this to Jason Karno back in 1997 as the sports reporter for ESPN Radio. Jason was covering the Bulls' second three-peat of championships. Being a sports reporter allowed Jason terrific opportunities to interview and learn from some of the greatest players and coaches like Jordan, Phil Jackson, Sammy Sosa, Jeremy Roenick, Walter Payton, and many others.
EDGE Learning and Wellness Collegiate Community is thrilled to announce that Jason Karno, M.Ed. M.L& A, has joined the program as the new EDGE Learning Coordinator. He is taking over the position from Anne Walchak, who recently left EDGE to pursue alternative career opportunities closer to family. Jason brought a wealth of knowledge and experience from sports radio broadcasting when he pivoted into the world of teaching & learning in 2001, earning a master’s degree in education from DePaul University. Utilizing his previous work experience, his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Communications and his Master’s in Education, Jason quickly became a very successful classroom teacher in the public and private schools for 13 years. “I loved the experiences in radio, the people I met, the championships I covered, and the relationships I built. However, I felt the need to make a bigger difference in the world as a whole and what better way to do that then to work with diverse students of all ages.”
Jason has since spent over twenty years in the world of education, including administrative positions as both an Assistant Principal and Principal in Chicago suburban School Districts. Through his experiences, Jason has developed an acute knowledge of academic programs and a love for coaching and helping students and staff understand new concepts, find pride in their academic progress, and be the best they can be at what they do. “Building relationships and collaborating is the key to fostering success at all levels and I am excited to begin that journey with our students and staff at Edge Learning and Wellness Collegiate Community”
As the EDGE Learning Coordinator, Jason provides academic, executive functioning and Social-emotional coaching and support to young adults, both individually and in a group setting. He will collaborate with each student to set and discuss goals, select courses and build positive habits. Jason’s main priority as he begins his work at EDGE is to foster strong relationships with emerging adults in order to help them reach their goals and become contributing members of a global society. “I am looking forward to helping EDGE students learn not only their academics through college courses, but also learn the essential life skills that are equally important to being successful and making themselves and their families proud.”
In addition to having a bachelors from Tulane University, master’s degrees from DePaul and the American College of Education, Jason is a father of two teenage boys. He loves sports, music, and going up to Michigan to relax and enjoy its beauty. When he is not helping students or spending time with his family, you can probably find him in the gym, working out and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
About EDGE Learning and Wellness Collegiate Community
EDGE Learning and Wellness Collegiate Community is an accredited transitional living program located in Chicago, IL. EDGE offers therapeutically supported residential and non-residential options for post-treatment young adults. The participants, ages 18 -24, are striving to excel academically, while creating a life of balance, joy and wellness.
September 8, 2020 Skookum House is a rolling admissions semester- or year-long boarding school for boys who need a community, education, and experience. COVID-19 has left boys across the country without a peer group, out of classrooms, without academic support and without activities to keep them unplugged and active. Skookum House was created by the owners of Passages Alaska, a wilderness therapy program in the town of Klawock, Southeast Alaska, to meet the need of traditional students who have been stuck inside during the pandemic.
Alaskan Adventure and Educational Support: this semester-long program was created because COVID-19 has no clear end. This is the high school semester (or year) created for those who need community, adventure and academic support in a COVID-19 safe environment. Skookum House semester boys will use their home high school virtual platform and have education support onsite.
With doors opening to Skookum House the day after Labor Day, for a maximum of 20 high school-aged young men, school and experiential adventures will continue through their academic semester or year. The schedule will be geared toward fun, physical activity and group interaction. Boys enrolled in this unique boarding school semester will fish, see whales and a plethora of other wildlife, create and learn about the Alaskan culture and have a unique semester of education. Community service is also a component to the Skookum House, including programming like providing firewood for elders or others in need. Similar to boarding schools throughout the lower 48, daily living in the house will include the traditions of being up on time, hygiene, chores and meetings that support the house and its members, scheduled school, meal preparation, and free time that will be monitored by “house parents.” House members will be responsible for their own laundry and will learn to shop for and prepare meals. During weekly outings, participants will explore and become familiar with places and communities on Prince of Wales Island.
The school is located near Klawock, Alaska on Prince of Wales Island west of Ketchikan. The campus is about a 2.5-hour flight from Seattle. Annual temperatures are quite moderate and similar to Washington's Olympic Peninsula. Summer temperatures are usually in the 50's and 60's and winter temperatures most often range between 20's and 40's. The ocean doesn't freeze, and no one lives in an igloo. There are also 6.5 hours of daylight on the shortest day despite people thinking it's dark all the time. The house parents will be Shay and Sean Tomkinson. Sean is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker has lived in Alaska since 2009. He’s a brother, a father, an uncle, grandfather and husband. He is the owner and Clinical Director at Passages Alaska Wilderness Therapy. Sean has been a mental health clinician since 2003 and earned a Master of Social work degree from Walla Walla University. The support staff are all experienced wilderness guides who have worked extensively with adolescents. The cost of the program is $35,000/semester with a small enrollment fee for the proper clothing. Skookum House is currently taking applications.
Skookum House is located on a separate campus from Passages Alaska students. Passages is a unique wilderness therapy program in Southeast Alaska for young adult males 18-28. Using the magic of Alaska and access to the coastal waters allows it to be a changing of perspective for the participants. Hands-on therapeutic interventions include paddling, whale watching, fishing, primitive skill building and service with extensive therapy and coaching will be available for those with Anxiety, Depression, ADHA and Failure to Thrive. Sean Tomkinson, 907-821-8092, sean@passagesalaska.com
Orem, UT: STRīV is a transitional living and social/emotional/academic support program for young adults navigating the challenging landscape of independent living. Launching into adulthood can be a struggle, even for some of the brightest emerging adults. And for some, one of the biggest barriers to launching effectively relates to Executive Functioning.
Executive Functioning (EF) comprises a set of cognitive skills that include organization, time management, mental flexibility, self-control, working memory, task initiation and completion, and others. These are skills we use every day to manage the demands of life. Deficits in these areas can make it difficult to focus, follow directions, organize and complete tasks, etc. The good news is that, like any skill, students can learn strategies to improve in the areas of difficulty. Taking a strengths-based approach, STRīV recognizes the importance of helping students excel in their strengths, but also to develop strategies to help manage their weaknesses.
A huge part of the program focuses on Executive Functioning through one-on-one coaching. Tyra Hammond is the Executive Skills Specialist and coach at STRīV. Describing the essence of her work, she shared, “We work with many students who have a lot of intellectual ‘fire power’ but have struggled to feel successful. In school, for example, often the grade doesn’t align with the potential or ability, which then leads to poor self-esteem or a general sense of frustration and discouragement. Students begin to doubt themselves. But when they begin to see that there are a variety of strategies that complement their learning styles and can help move them forward, it’s a beautiful thing!”
And it’s not just academics. Many students struggle to keep track of things, being on-time to appointments, or keeping their living space clean. Coaching can be a tremendous help here too. In her role as EF coach, Ms. Hammond reports, “It’s empowering for the student to be heard and understood, and then guided to establish plans, systems, etc. that THEY define, and that work for THEM. And it’s gratifying to me to see them beaming with pride over their clean apartment, or successfully use a checklist they’ve created to help them stay on-task.”
STRīV is designed to help students manage and improve their social skills, work through emotional challenges, and re-discover their potential. In addition, the individualized and one-on-one work on executive skills has been a tremendous part of the students’ success.
About STRiV
STRiV (Strive Forward, LLC) is a transitional living and college support program for young adults who have struggled on their journey toward independence. STRiV provides social/emotional/academic support and life-skills development through one-on-one mentoring, Executive Skills coaching, and individual & group therapy within a semi-independent living environment. Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah County, STRiV provides supported access to Utah Valley University, myriad vocational programs, unmatched outdoor recreation, and a wide variety of community-based entertainment.
There has been a lot of movement around campus at Trails Momentum, a young adult adventure-based therapeutic program, recently. Whether it is student-led exercise classes or Zumba for therapy, students have been enjoying movement as a way to express themselves and release emotions.
At Momentum, prior to graduating, each student designs and completes their own legacy project, leaving a positive footprint for future students. Recently, as part of that legacy project, a student created an instructional workout video that future students can follow along. In creating this video, he wants to provide students with a fun P90X-inspired class that will be both helpful and entertaining.
Zumba is also being used more frequently on campus. Primary Therapist Jordan Siegel MSW, LCSW, discusses how she is using Zumba before therapy sessions with a student: “With my background and training in experiential and play modalities, I cultivated an intervention to facilitate social engagement and joy for this student through the medium of Zumba/dance”, Jordan states. By participating in Zumba, Jordan is able to help students express themselves in a new way while still seeing therapeutic results. Having practiced dance throughout her own childhood and adolescence, Jordan knows the benefits first hand. “There is also a lot of evidence regarding dance, the arts, and its therapeutic value”, Jordan adds as she continues to incorporate more experiential therapy modalities in her work.
Trails Momentum integrates experiential and adventure therapy activities into programming in several ways. Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and flyfishing are just a few of the experiences students can have at Momentum. Adventure opportunities allow students to practice all they’ve learned in therapy in real-world situations, gaining confidence, and learning more about themselves through hands-on activities.
Learn more about the adventure therapy at Trails Momentum by visiting https://trailsmomentum.com/experience/ or by calling (877) 296-8711.
Trails Momentum is an adventure-based outdoor program for young adults ages 18-25 who are struggling to launch themselves into adulthood. Students are guided on a journey of self-discovery where they develop self-concept and are empowered to make the transition into independence. Adventure programming, clinical services, family involvement, college coursework, and social skill development are seamlessly interwoven to maximize the transference of important life skills and address clinical and behavioral challenges.
Trails Carolina, a wilderness therapy program for preteens and adolescents ages 10-17, has recently opened a new location specifically designed for their 24 hour family graduation experience.
During a student’s graduation, families will have the opportunity to stay on the glamping site over the course of the 24-hour graduation process. The glamping accommodations sit on 15 acres of developed land, surrounded by forest. On the glamping site, families will have the chance to spend the night in these accommodations while getting a taste of the outdoors.
The glamping site allows for a socially distanced graduation experience, providing a private camp area for each family. Families each have their own restrooms with showers that are cleaned between use.
"We are very excited about our new family graduation site,” comments Julia Andrick, Admissions and Business Development Director at Trails Carolina. “This new location gives our families a chance to come together and see the progress their children have made in an environment where they can be disconnected from emails and phones and reconnected with one another. Our families have an opportunity to solely focus on transitioning positive change to a new environment.”
For more information about family programming at Trails Carolina call 800-975-7303.
About Trails Carolina
Trails Carolina is a wilderness therapy for pre-teens and adolescents ages 10-17. The clinically sophisticated and time-tested program engages students through wilderness therapy, mindfulness and yoga, equine-assisted therapy, intentional transitions, and academic engagement. Recent outcome research demonstrates efficacy. Trails Carolina was created to help families reconnect and heal. For additional information about Trails Carolina, located just outside of Asheville, North Carolina, please call 800-975-7303.
This summer, Foundations Asheville, a young adult transition program, orchestrated two 3-day long camping trips focused on team building activities and the development of leadership skills.
In June, students camped and paddled at South Carolina’s Lake Jocassee. During this trip, students practiced their navigational and map skills and spent time working on group dynamics. Last month, students went whitewater rafting and paddle boarding on the Ocoee River in Tennessee.
These trips were completely led by Foundations Asheville staff. Life Skills Instructors were accompanied by clinicians, the Director of Education and Career Readiness, Natalie Bryenton, and the Director of Business Development and Programming, Adam Ray.
“For students who have had less community-based opportunities during COVID-19, these trips have been a chance for them to build on their internal community,” says Ray. “The adventures allow students to feel like they are having meaningful experiences and enjoying summer despite the current state of things. We intend to lead off-campus trips like these on a regular basis.”
Foundations Asheville is a transitional living community located in Asheville, North Carolina. Foundations supports young adults between the ages of 18-24 through the process of transitioning into adulthood by helping them gain confidence and motivation within a structured, individualized community environment. While at Foundations, young adults gain skills to succeed academically, socially, and in the workforce. For more information about Foundations, please visit -19or call (828) 604-6570.
What do ornithology, geology and forensics all have in common? If you guessed that they are all apart of New Haven’s Summer Semester 2020 you would be correct! The academic team at New Haven has come together to provide a robust syllabus of project-based activities to help students engage experientially in the learning process during the summer semester. “Summer School” isn’t any teen’s ideal, however, the summer semesters provide the opportunity to gain credit recovery. The science-based course offerings this year have included a Forensic course, Ornithology (birdwatching), and Geology. Each course included class projects and discussion, as well as a chance to get out of the classroom and explore various learning opportunities throughout the community.
The Ornithology course gave students the opportunity to study the natural history of birds and their identification. The class has gone into various areas in the community with binoculars; as a group, they have identified more than 20 bird species in two weeks. This past week the class covered hawk identification and the physics of avian flight. The course ended with a wonderful guest speaker from the Lehi Museum, who brought in some specimens and taught the class about her prairie falcon.
The Geology course explored the earth's geological systems, types of rock, mineral symmetry, how rocks form and collecting and identifying local rocks. One of the most popular projects included learning about the hydrogeologic cycle, and how carbon can be used to filter water in nature and into homes.
For the Forensics class, the definite highlight for the students was the mock crime scene that students analyzed for the Forensics class. Students were divided into two CSI units with specific roles designed to analyze evidence: fiber samples, hair, handwriting, fingerprints, splatter patterns and footprints in order to identify potential suspects and discover the narrative of who-done-it. In the end the students solved the Math Room Murder using trace and class evidence.
New Haven is looking forward to the beginning fall semester in the coming weeks. The academic team at New Haven has had lots of practice doing safe in-person coursework and are looking forward to a great year. To learn more about New Haven’s college preparatory academic program visit www.newhavenrtc.com.
About New Haven RTC
New Haven empowers adolescent girls to overcome life's traumas. New Haven specializes in treating bright and sophisticated girls with complex issues such as traumatic stress, complex family systems, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, attachment, eating disorders, and personality disorders. New Haven’s program is designed to provide world-class clinical services along with college prep academics.
Valley View School is pleased to announce that Patrick Bernier has joined the Valley View community in the crucial role of Coordinator of Residential Services. Patrick, originally from New York City, has worked in adolescent residential care for the last 12 years in Worcester, Massachusetts. Most recently, Patrick was the Program Manager at Wetzel Center.
Thomas Nowak, Executive Director, states, "In the two months since his arrival, Patrick has developed solid relationships with both staff and students and has taken steps to sharpen the structure of the Residential Program."
Patrick brings a soft-spoken but firm style of communication, outstanding clinical acumen, and a deep understanding of the rhythms of residential communities. In his free time, Patrick enjoys athletics and the fulfillment of domestic life with his wife and young son.
About Valley View School
Valley View School, founded in 1970, is a private therapeutic boarding school serving boys in grades 6-12. Our non-profit 501(c)(3) school is located in the central Massachusetts town of North Brookfield. The Valley View Program consists of a comprehensive blend of Therapy, Academics, Athletics, Arts and Activities challenging our students emotionally, intellectually and physically. The boys learn self-control and anger management, social skills in order to create and cultivate relationships with peers and adults, while developing compassion, empathy and respect for others and to realize their true potential.
Tooele County, UT - Alpine Academy is pleased to announce it has welcomed its first male students to the state-of-the-art Lakeview campus. The Lakeview campus is Alpine Academy’s second campus, located just three miles south of its current Mountain View campus and will focus its efforts on providing academic, therapeutic and family services to biological males ages 12-18. Since 2003, the Mountain View campus has provided these services to biological females in the same age range.
The new students are settling into the new Cedar Creek family-style home, have started attending classes and meeting with their therapist, and have enjoyed exploring some of the many recreational opportunities offered at Alpine Academy.
They are being guided through the acclimation process with the help of Alpine’s experienced family teachers, Levi and Amanda Neely. The Neelys are seasoned employees with extensive experience with the Teaching Family Model.
In a statement on the arrival of the new students, the Neelys remarked:
"The students have brought this beautiful home to life. Their desire for self-improvement and academic success has set the tone for the home and campus in general. We are excited to continue this journey together. Our goal is to focus on the strengths and talents of each individual, guide them through the healing process and return them to their families with the skills to better deal with real-life situations.”
The Alpine leadership team is also excited to have Mike Slade join the therapeutic team. He is excited to be working with students at the Lakeview campus. Mike is EMDR and TF-CBT trained has had extensive experience working alongside the Teaching Family Model with the male population for our parent company, Utah Youth Village.
To learn more about the new Lakeview campus and its new staff members, please visit the following link: Alpine Academy - new campus info.
About Alpine Academy
Alpine Academy Therapeutic Schools, state-licensed as residential treatment, for adolescents, ages 12-18, includes two campuses - one for males and one for females. The 30+ acre, Utah campuses are just three miles apart and are only 30 minutes west of the Salt Lake City International Airport Both campuses serve students struggling with severe emotional disturbances. Alpine is a fully accredited school with dual-endorsed teachers. Therapy, with Master’s level clinicians, is built into the school day. Alpine is a nationally certified Teaching-Family Model treatment program. Students live in homes with married couples who provide a family-like setting and serve as professional house parents. Through a strength-based, trauma-informed, individualized approach, students are taught healthy behaviors in a setting that best replicates family, school, and community life. Contact: Jill McIntyre @ 801-815-4683 or jmcintyre@alpineacademy.org.
Red Mountain Colorado, the leading mindfulness-based program for teens, joyfully celebrated its One Year Anniversary on August 7th, 2020. The occasion coincided with an inspiring student graduation and a two day long, all staff training seminar hosted by Founder and Operating Partner Josh White, MA, LCMHC, CGP along his wife and business partner Maureen White, MA, the Senior Program Advisor at the Colorado program.
In August of 2019, Josh White welcomed the facility, previously licensed by the state of Colorado as an RTC for adolescents ages 14 - 17, as the newest member of the Red Mountain Family of Programs. “Developing an adolescent program that embodies the proven Red Mountain clinical philosophy and approach to treatment has been an equally rewarding and challenging undertaking over the past year.” shares Josh White. “Nurturing the staff and students as they have embraced the Red Mountain core values of mindfulness, safety, compassion, confidence, and growth has been a powerful experience.”
The one year anniversary was a momentous occasion marked by the students, staff, and the leadership team enjoying a picnic lunch together in the beautiful campus courtyard - complete with Birthday Cake! The anniversary lunch also served as a celebration of a student graduation. Several key staff and many of the students spoke about their joy and admiration for the personal growth the student attained during his time at Red Mountain Colorado. Everyone in attendance passed around a green wrist Mala as a sentimental graduation gift and took turns suffusing it with their good wishes for him.
The outpouring of pride and positive energy felt by the entire Red Mountain Family during the graduation ceremony was evident during the intensive two days of all staff training. Josh and Maureen co-hosted the training which focused on deepening staff understanding of the core values through all aspects of the programming from daily interactions to clinical work.
“Witnessing the outcome of what we do, on the day we celebrated our one year anniversary, and in combination with a training focused on helping our staff to become better at what we do was incredibly powerful,” says Executive Director Kera Miller, MA, LPC. “I feel so proud of the work we do at Red Mountain Colorado as we support and guide our students on their journey to become young men.”
Call 877-210-0211 or visit https://redmountaincolorado.com/ to learn more about mindfulness-based residential treatment for adolescent boys at Red Mountain Colorado.
Red Mountain Colorado, located just north of Denver, provides an ideal location for adolescents who would benefit from a mindfulness-based residential treatment program. Red Mountain helps teens with co-occurring disorders heal by working with the mind, body and spirit using various forms of meditation, mindfulness, yoga, martial arts, life skills education, and multi-modal therapies, including CBT, DBT, EMDR and Brainspotting.
Redlands, CA - Benchmark Transitions is pleased to announce that Clinical Director Nicholaus Bond, LMFT, was recently featured during "Meaningful Monday" virtual meeting in July, with Candace McKenzie from Discovery Behavioral Health. Nicholas presented Engaging Families: Strategies and Philosophies to Guide Young Adult Treatment during the hour-long virtual presentation. "Evidence-based practices and treatment philosophies can be utilized to guide, shape and enhance family support with young adults with mental health and substance use disorders," states Nick Bond, LMFT. "At Benchmark Transitions, we increase the success for our young adults and their familie in accomplishing treatment goals and objectives," concludes Bond.
Nicholaus Bond, LMFT, is the clinical director at Benchmark Transitions for all levels of care, including detox, residential treatment and clinical transitional living outpatient therapy programs. Nicholaus has extensive experience in training in the treatment of youth and young adults with mental illness and substance use disorders. He holds a Master of Science in marital and family therapy from Loma Linda University and a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Brigham Young University. Nicholaus is trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, cognitive processing therapy, the Matrix Model and motivational interviewing and has been previously certified in multi-dimensional family therapy (MDFT) as both a practitioner and supervisor.
About Benchmark
Benchmark Transitions is a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to residential treatment and transitional living for young adult men and women, ages 18-28. Benchmark provides an evidence-based treatment for mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders, community based supportive transitional living, education and career development and independent living life skills. Benchmark is licensed and certified for substance use and co-occurring mental health discorders by the State of California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and is fully accredited by The Joint Commission for Behavioral Health for all levels of care, including sub-acute detoxification, primary residential treatment, outpatient clinical services and supportive transitional living. Benchmark accepts most PPO insurance policies and is a contracted In Network provider with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross (serving most Blue Card members with BCBS), First Health, Kaiser Permanente of Southern California, Tri-Care West and Mental Health Network (MHN.)
Redlands, CA - As schools and colleges across the US are planning for distance learning and variations from their regularly scheduled on-site curriculum, Benchmark Transitions continues to provide a WASC-accredited, fully weighted high school diploma and college support for young adults as they concurrently participate in Benchmark's Clinical Transitional Living programs. Benchmark has long term relationships with local community colleges and vocational trade and career schools, providing a wide array of options for young adults. "Benchmark has an integrated and on-site career center, which allows us to teach onsite, provide vocational and academic testing and assessments, as well as tutoring and support," states Benjamin Madison, M.A.T., Benchmark's education coordinator. "Benchmark's education department offers rolling admissions and runs concurrently with the treatment program, offering year-round high school and college classes," continues Madison, who holds his Master of Arts in Teaching and is a credentialed educator in the State of California. "Classes can be taught in conjunction with distance learning from each client's home high school or via distance learning via their university."
According to Nicholaus Bond, LMFT, Benchmark's Clinical Director, "Our program really offers the best of both worlds. Clients can receive the clinical support they need for their mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and trauma. They can recieve treatment and healthier coping mechanisms for substance use disorders and they can also get back on track with their academics, which helps build self confidence."
Benchmark Young Adult School, the academic branch of Benchmark Transitions, is an accredited private school and holds the Private School Affidavite from the State of California. Benchmark also has a long-term partnership with Redlands Unified School District / Redlands Adult School, to facilitate the State of California standardized high school curriculum. Benchmark can support IEPs and 504 Plans and provides collegiate recovery support for college students, as well.
About Benchmark
Benchmark Transitions is a comprehensive, multi-discliplinary approach to residential treatment and transitional living for young adults, 18-28 years of age. Benchmark Transitions provides evidence-based treatment for mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders, community based supportive transitional living, education and career development and independent living life skills. Benchmark is licensed for substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders by the State of California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and is full accredited for all levels of care, including sub-acute detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient therapy and supportive transitional living by The Joint Commission for Behavioral Health. Benchmark accepts most PPO insurance plans and is In Network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross (accepting most BCBS Blue Card members), First Health, Kaiser Permanente of Southern California, Tri-Care West and Mental Health Network (MHN.)