All Kinds of News for January 13, 2021

(Boulder, CO) – AIM House is proud to introduce a new community-based program called Evolve. AIM House created the Evolve program with a vision for a unique and completely individualized approach to aftercare. While the traditional residential mentorship program in Boulder continues to serve young adults as they transition to adulthood, the Evolve program will serve a unique but significant group. 

AIM House, based in Boulder, Colorado, is known for its residential program that has been in operation for 21 years. An expansion of the community-based Evolve program represents an exciting addition and creates an opportunity for the AIM House support system to reach a whole new group of young adults.  “Essentially, Evolve has been operating for years under the umbrella of what we call Manifest,” explained co-founder Danny Conroy. “Manifest is the final phase of our program where participants move off campus but continue to receive structured support from AIM House. The addition of the Evolve program allows young adults to directly enter into a community-based program, where appropriate, without first going through residential. For some people traditional aftercare may be too structured, and Evolve creates a space for that demographic to still get the support they need in a way that works for them.” 

Evolve participants live in the Boulder community while receiving a customized combination of mentorship, clinical care, assistance with independent living skills, and peer support. They also receive addiction and compulsion behavior support. “Evolve is for individuals who want to continue the therapeutic ‘work’ they are already doing, as they transition to a supportive environment that offers more independence than traditional aftercare,” Kelly Corn, Executive Director, explained.

One participant in the Evolve program weighed in: “The Evolve program is an excellent way to be a part of the AIM community while still taking things ‘a la carte’ so that your time commitment is well managed. I’m glad that I still feel a part of the program. I think almost all of the PHP/IOP programs are very corporate, but I feel cared for here in a way that I haven’t before. I’ve been in outpatient programs before, but this is the first time I’ve been able to build a program that works for me.”

Each Evolve participant is provided an individualized team that offers assistance in the specific form they need, including being matched with a Mentor. Mentors act as a life skills coach and assist participants in a variety of ways: maintaining momentum and goal setting, managing a budget, health and wellness self-care, shopping for groceries and preparing meals, continuing to cultivate passions, community building, creating effective schedules, and executive functioning.

AIM House currently operates three Evolve houses in the Boulder community. Evolve participants have their own room, though they do typically have housemates. The length of stay varies widely depending on the particular person’s needs. “This is highly individualized and dynamic,” noted Kelly Corn. “This is the program for someone who wants more independence - and support. The program can be customized in a way that is completely unique to their level of care.” 

Wes Fischer is the Community Services Director at AIM House. “Having a fully customizable program allows us to meet participants where they are at,” added Wes. “Frequently our participants feel like they are starting over in life for a number of different reasons, it could be being in early recovery from compulsive behavior or any mental health struggle they may be facing.  For that reason we need to be able to help them on whatever level they are at, this could be building a brand new life schedule to the fine-tuning of social interaction.  There really is no one size fits all.”

Find out more about the Evolve program at www.aimhouse.com or by contacting Kelly Corn at kcorn@aimhouse.com or 303-817-2884.

 About AIM House

Founded in 1999, AIM House is a transitional living program located in Boulder, Colorado. Young adults come from wilderness therapy programs, residential treatment programs, therapeutic boarding schools, and drug and alcohol treatment centers. Mentors and therapists work with each participant to create an individualized program that meets the needs of the participant and their family. Participants have access to a large variety of educational institutions, including the University of Colorado Boulder. AIM House also offers executive functioning support, vocational coaching, and personalized artistic and entrepreneurial mentorship.

Alpine Academy recently named Jason Stout as School Director for Alpine Academy. He joins Academic Director Angie Alvey in leading the academic program at both campuses, to provide an excellent educational experience for all students. Jason has been with Alpine Academy since 2007. He began his career alongside his wife as they worked as Family Teachers and lived in one of the residential homes; most recently he served as the Marketing Director and Admissions Coordinator. Jason’s contributions to the academic team were immediate and vital, beginning in March when adjustments were needed due to effects of COVID-19. Angie, Jason, and the entire Alpine faculty and staff have worked together to continue their students’ education uninterrupted through the pandemic. They have been persistent in creating unprecedented practices for the classrooms that are keeping students interested, advancing, and safe.

Another progressive move during the pandemic was hiring Ellen Smith to the Alpine Academic Team as a teacher of Criminal Justice. Ellen is a criminologist who settled in Utah after having been recruited by the Director of Protective Services as a top security leader for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City; her assignment as a Security Manager was for the Main Media and International Broadcast Center, requiring the highest security of all venues. She joins Alpine after 15 years as an Adjunct Faculty Member of Salt Lake Community College and Concurrent Enrollment Teacher in Tooele School District.

At Alpine Academy, Ellen teaches Criminal Justice, Careers in Criminal Justice, and Criminal Law. She stated, “There are more jobs available in the Criminal Justice system than in any other industry - from psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers to accountants, investigators and patrol officers. My focus is on teaching them about the law and about the vast opportunities in the Criminal Justice industry.” In the spring, some students will compete in Utah’s SkillsUSA competition (for more information about SkillsUSA click here). In recent years her local team took First Place five times in a row and qualified for the national competition in Louisville, KY. And last year, her team was ranked 10th in the nation for Crime Scene Investigation.

Alpine Academy is thrilled to bring this experience and these opportunities to the students of Alpine Academy, which will benefit them long after they leave.

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.

December 15, 2020, Raleigh, NC – Green Hill Recovery, a Raleigh-based treatment provider for young adults grappling with substance use disorder (SUD), has announced this month that it joined Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) as an in-network provider. This announcement makes public another important step in Green Hill’s ongoing initiative to make high-quality substance use treatment both more affordable and more accessible to families in North Carolina, and around the country. 

Blue Cross NC is our nation’s second largest insurance provider, and by joining as an in-network provider, Green Hill can now provide clients and families far better insurance reimbursements options and ultimately, lower the total cost of care. Going in-network for Green Hill is a reflection of the company’s desire to operate as a values-based, mission-driven organization and to reduce the impact and burden of addiction on families. As an in-network provider with Blue Cross NC, Green Hill will now build further financial transparency, and achieve a greater level of unity with clients and families. 

Green Hill's CEO Tripp Johnson had this to say about the big announcement: “This partnership with Blue Cross NC is a long time in the making. I really respect the work that Blue Cross NC does to provide truly top-notch care for their customers and we look forward to being a leader for substance use disorder treatment in their network”  

Green Hill's goal for 2021 is to also become in-network providers for Anthem, Cigna, United and Humana. Green Hill joined Aetna as an in-network partner earlier this year.

Tripp Johnson also added “Increasing access to quality substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health treatment is a top priority for us. We believe that developing relationships that extend beyond contractual agreements can increase the quality of care over time. We’re committed to sharing data, resources, and expertise with insurance providers to better serve our communities.”

Green Hill believes that the growing increases in substance use disorder along with co-occurring mental health conditions must be met with both innovation and creative solutions from the private and public health sectors. Organizations like Green Hill seek to play a key role in making the highest quality treatment options more accessible and affordable. 

Green Hill 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 984-204-1106.

Onward Transitions, a community-based support program for emerging adults in Portland, Maine, continues to provide executive functioning training groups. These milieu groups, facilitated by specially trained staff, provide emerging adults with opportunities to practice and discuss executive functioning strategies used to solve real-world challenges in their day-to-day lives. Staff worked collaboratively with the emerging adults to better understand what topics were important to them, and then used their practical knowledge of executive functioning training to focus on specialized skill sets. Each weekday, staff members facilitate a daily topical group aimed at helping members to better manage ADHD symptoms and other non-neurotypical challenges limiting their productivity. 

Co-founder and lead clinician Darrell Fraize, M.Ed., LCPC, LADC reported the following group themes began early this fall and continue to meet each weekday afternoon: managing distractions (task initiation and organization), time management (planning and prioritizing), budgeting (impulse control), base wellness and mind/body connection (self-monitoring, emotional control), and SMART weekend planning (flexible thinking). Fraize reported that these groups are separate but connected to the six therapy groups facilitated by Onward’s clinical team. 

“Many of our members talked about needing structure during their interview process, and then found that they were being successful implementing it this fall just by just showing up for groups and individual appointments. I think everyone’s been pleasantly surprised by the level of engagement, practice and retention of skills from the executive functioning groups. Not everyone is living with ADHD, but what members are finding is that there is value here regardless of how your brain functions.” Fraize stated.  “Our members let us know that they found the term ‘adulting’ to be somewhat derogatory, and so they guided us to calling the groups what they are actually about: executive functioning. And from that point, by focusing on what mattered to them in the moment, we have seen a qualitative difference in the way they approach problem-solving more globally. Budgets are better managed, people are on time, members are more understanding with friends and family, and they start AND finish more things. It’s really been a great thing to see happen, particularly when parents recognize the growth and bring it up in family therapy with their adult children. Everyone comes away feeling like a winner.”

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.

OREM, Utah - Not only is 'Choose Mental Health' new but also Telos' decision to join as a Founding Member. "This decision didn't come lightly," remarked Tony Mosier, co-founder of Telos, continuing, "Choose Mental Health is a powerful model that gives voice to needed change in our field." 

The excitement around 'Choose Mental Health' is centered around "choosing" to live a higher clinical standard for children and youth. "This new standard is not easy, but doable and adds value to the industry in a significant way for programs and families looking for help" added Dan Pontius, Executive Director, Choose Mental Health.

'Choose Mental Health' is building a repository of videos, blogs, and articles for parents to learn skills and to be mentored on raising children with needs.  Most families won't need to place with Telos or other programs so this service is a much-needed resource. By combining knowledge with clinical experts of other programs, this resource will grow and deliver the next steps to thousands of families.

To learn more, visit 'Choose Mental Health's' Facebook Page. or email info@choosementalhealth.org for more information. #thetelosway #choosementalhealth

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.

Legacy Treatment Center is excited to spread the word that their very own Lily Wilkinson was recently a guest on 'Success is Subjective', a well-known podcast within the field. 'Success is Subjective' is a podcast hosted by Joanna Lilley of Lilley Consulting, is sponsored by ParentTrainers.com and features interviews with professionals, parents, and students who reflect on their experience of post-secondary success. Lily is a member of the business development team at Legacy Treatment Center and has gotten to know Joanna throughout the years as a colleague and friend.

Lilley announced the podcast episode on her Facebook page: “If you haven't heard Lily share her story, you definitely need to give it a listen! As an east coaster myself, I shared the post-secondary expectations that Lily was raised under. It's not a bad thing, just a very different perspective on what's important to young adults now that I'm much older. Her story is uplifting, and spotlights hope for those who are afraid to enroll in college post-treatment.”

Lily herself was thrilled for the opportunity to be interviewed. “I’m so happy that there are podcasts and outlets like 'Success is Subjective' available to help normalize ‘abnormal’ post-secondary, or young adult experiences - especially those like my own that involve treatment. I’m grateful to be able to share my story and hope that those who listen get something out of it!”

To listen to Lily’s episode on 'Success is Subjective' podcast or it is streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Sticher.

About Juniper Canyon Recovery Center for Women and brother program Legacy Outdoor Adventures

Juniper Canyon Recovery Center for Women and brother program Legacy Outdoor Adventures are located in Loa, UT, making up two, gender-specific programs. Legacy Outdoor Adventures for Men is an adventure therapy program for young men ages 18 and up. Juniper Canyon Recovery Center for Women is the premier wilderness recovery program for young adult women 18 and up. Both Legacy programs are licensed as Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Programs. Additionally, Legacy programs are licensed by the state of Utah as Residential Treatment Centers. They are Joint Commission Accredited and treat addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and dual diagnosis clients.

TechieForLife co-founder and Executive Director Jason Grygla, LCMHC, MA and his wife Debbie Grygla recently launched the podcast Autism & Neurodiversity with three episodes on Friday, January 8th, 2021,  The podcast is available on Apple and Google podcast platforms. The weekly podcast will continue to feature relevant insights, discussions with leading experts, and effective tools as a go-to resource for confidently parenting, working with or being neurodiverse.

Drawing on their own experiences professionally and personally, Jason and Debbie desire to offer more help and improve outcomes for those struggling among the neurodiverse community. Jason is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Debbie is a Certified Life Coach through The Life Coach School, but it’s their experiences raising their oldest two adopted boys into adulthood (one with Autism and the other with ADHD) that has really given them a foundation of love and understanding for neurodiversity. “We’ve gone through so many ups and downs, made mistakes, but also learned so much over the years. We’re looking forward to helping others avoid some of the struggles we’ve had and give them the information that can help them parent and navigate things with confidence,” said Debbie Grygla.

Please visit JasonDebbie.com to learn more about their work. Fans of the podcast can contact support@jasondebbie.com to provide feedback and ideas for the podcast, or to be guests on the show.

About TechieForLife

TechieForLife (TFL) is a co-ed, residential postsecondary school with a wrap-around career support program in beautiful St. George, Utah. Students with neurodiverse social, emotional, and academic challenges such as autism receive mentoring at TFL so they can build social connections, confidence and independence. Licensed as a vocational school, TFL offers in-house computer tech training, college or trade school help, apprenticeships, internships and job support for individualized paths forward. At TFL, students have a place to belong and support to succeed.

Children with autism mature into young adults who want to attend college, work, and have a social life. What happens when children on the autism spectrum grow up? In most cases, they require assistance with their transition into adulthood and the challenges of getting and maintaining a job, enjoying social relationships. Some also require support with the skills of daily living.

While many young adults on the autism spectrum qualify academically for college, they frequently struggle with other aspects of college life. Coupled with the often dramatic change in support services once they get to college, persons with autism are often severely disadvantaged. College life and society in general are not autism-friendly but with an active team to support them and help them recognize and utilize their individual strengths, these individuals can quickly develop and build healthy self-esteem and a sense of self-worth.

Persons with autism can be a superior employee in task completion and job knowledge. However, they may struggle with understanding the social behaviors of the workplace. At times, even the physical environment itself may present challenges. Sensory differences as simple as fluorescent lighting or sounds can make the workday exceedingly unpleasant for individuals, resulting in employment difficulties.

In addition, the ability to understand social clues (difficulties with social cognition) can limit the young adult with autism from participating in community activities.

Supportive communities, such as EDGE Advance, provide an innovative transitional space to assist young adults with autism integrate fully into school, life, and community. These programs develops social, executive functioning and job skills. The ideal environment also provides social opportunities with both neurodiverse and neurotypical peers. In the right environment, these young adults blossom, make friends, and have a full social calendar. Regular events should include small group interactions, dinners, cooking, nutrition, fitness, and cultural outings that are integrated with a diverse group of similar aged young adults.

EDGE Advance is a transition program for young adults with autism or other learning differences and provides real life experiential skill development in areas such as social skill development and practice, executive functioning, sensory processing, and wellness. Every individual explores their goals and dreams with the coaching team to determine their individual needs and supports while living in a urban residential apartment setting.

About EDGE Advance

EDGE Advance is a transitional program for neurodiverse (Autism Spectrum Disorders - ASD) young adults. Utilizing a clinically integrated coaching model, the goal of EDGE Advance is to create a path for emerging young adults to develop the habits and skills necessary to lead autonomous lives of purpose.

Fulshear Treatment to Transition is very excited to announce the promotion of Nicole Ponce, LPC, LCDC, to Clinical Director of the Redwood Community. Nicole has been a therapist at Fulshear for five years and has had an integral part in training Fulshear’s staff as the Clinical Trainer, as well.

Nicole has worked with a diverse population in the mental health field, including residential treatment, group therapy, individual therapy, and family therapy. Nicole specializes in, and has a strong passion in, working with chemical dependency. Nicole truly enjoys helping clients discover their strengths and utilizing them to live to their full potential.

“I’m very excited to be in this new role! I can’t wait to keep growing with Fulshear.” It has been such a natural transition for her to move into this role, and her calm demeanor and strength make this the perfect fit for her and for Fulshear.

About Fulshear Treatment to Transition

Fulshear Treatment to Transition, founded in 2003 and accredited by the Joint Commission, is located right outside of Houston in Needville, TX and Stafford, TX. Fulshear works with young women ages 18-24 struggling with mental health issues along with accompanying co-occurring disorders and is known for its development of the Fulshear Adult Attachment Model.

There has been a lot of exciting things going on at Turn-About Ranch. In 2020, the staff and students have worked together to remodel the main facility. This building is called “The Barn” because it’s an actual barn that has been renovated to accommodate group living. In fact, there are dorm-like rooms where the hayloft used to be. Boys and girls have their own separate sleeping areas and bathrooms. There is also a kitchen and a common area used for dining, homework, and group activities. This is where students sleep, eat, and spend a lot of their spare time.

On the ranch, "'The Barn' becomes a home away from home. In the recent remodeling project, the girls’ bathroom was updated and the exterior of the facility was redone with the goal of making it look more welcoming", according to Shane Young, the admissions director who headed the project. The changes included painting some of the siding a light color to contrast the dark brown logs, sunrise detailing at the top, and red trim. Young is happy to report that students have taken great pride in helping with the project. This will be something that students will be able to look at and say, “I helped with that!” when they return to visit their ranch home after graduation.

About Turn-About Ranch

Turn-About Ranch is a wilderness therapy and residential treatment program located in the heart of Southern Utah’s canyon country. Students experience life on a real working ranch while undergoing treatment to improve their life back home. Surrounded by multiple national parks and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Turn-About Ranch is the ideal location for youth of today to have the space they need to find healing and purpose.  If you have any questions about Turn-About Ranch, please call their admissions office at (800) 842-1165 between the hours of 8am and 6pm Mountain Standard Time. or fill out the contact form on their website.

Each January & June, Montana Academy’s faculty and students take a break from the normal four-class period days and spend three weeks immersed in multi-disciplinary courses that combine subject areas, are more experiential in nature and often take advantage of the local areas in and around Montana.

Montana Academy students are currently enrolled in their January 2021 Interim Session and one course in particular is being co-taught by Rick Stern, Dean of Students and Social Studies Department, and Matt Avanzino, English Department. This course, entitled Local History, aims to continue the story of our local Lost Prairie and Pleasant Valleys which was originally started in Jean Jackson’s 1998 book entitled Where the Green Grass Grows: Pleasant Valley and Lost Prairie, Montana, 1880 – 1946. During this course, students will read selections from Jackson’s book, and then continue the task of detailing the evolution of these local valleys through interviews with local residents and by exploring some of the most important historical, cultural and geographic sites. Students are undertaking this project during this January Interim Session and will continue the project throughout the calendar year.

The Interim Academic Sessions at Montana Academy were created a few years ago with the mission of offering students and faculty a reprieve from the normal classroom offerings and core coursework in order to explore and expand horizons. The Interim Sessions have often incorporated travel both locally and beyond to other regions of the United States, including the Southwest.  The academic faculty at Montana Academy is consistently expanding their creativity and has the freedom to develop a curriculum for students to complement their learning process and educational experience.

About Montana Academy

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. 

Andy Goldstrom, Parent Coach and Host of the 'Wilderness Therapy & Residential Treatment Journey' podcast, is pleased to announce he has become a Certified Parent Coach.  He completed training at both the Parents Coach Trainers Academy and JAI Institute for Parenting.  Parents Coach Trainers Academy is a well-known and regarded certification, having been recognized by most schools and programs affiliated with the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP), as well as the International Coaches Federation (ICF).  The JAI Institute for Parenting builds on being able to release the old, limiting beliefs and replace them with your own empowering beliefs.  It is based on the Non-Violent Communication, Emotional Intelligence, and the Neuroplasticity work of Dr. Bruce Lipton.

As a parent with a child who has struggled with mental illness, Andy has first-hand knowledge of the challenges parents encounter.  He experienced strife, grief, frustration and guilt.  Fortunately, he identified resources that could help his daughter and provide support for himself as a parent, but it wasn’t easy.  He found the ecosystem to be very fragmented, making it difficult to put the pieces together.  Fortunately, he and his wife decided to engage in parent coaching and found it to be very valuable.  As a result, Andy decided to pursue parent coaching certifications to be able to help more parents be their own best resources to achieve their family’s goals.

Andy shares, "Having helped numerous parents over the past 3 years, I am excited to be able to offer even more value through completing not just one, but two well-regarded training and certification programs.  Together with my first-hand experience as a parent of a child who has mental illness, a parent who benefitted from parent coaching, and a parent who is now a certified parent coach, I believe I offer a unique combination of experience and training that can make a big difference for parents."

To find out more about Andy’s parent coaching services and review free resources, visit the website, www.parentsjourney.net where visitors can find links to his podcasts that are streaming on Google, iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.  

Andy offers a free, no-obligation initial discussion.  He can be contacted at andy@parentsjourney.net or 770-633-2260.

About Parents Journey  
 
Parents Journey is a hub for struggling parents.  Formed by Andy Goldstrom after he and his wife were challenged parenting a child who was battling mental illness, he determined that parents need more help to identify, evaluate, and secure resources.  This is because the ecosystem is fragmented and difficult to navigate while inspiration was lacking, leaving them frequently alone.  The key components of Parents Journey include innovative parent coaching, a popular podcast, and other applicable resources.  At Parents Journey, we understand what you are going through and can provide an ear, guidance, resources, and/or connections to help make your journey a bit smoother.  We are also trained and certified as parent coaches from the Parent Coach Trainers Academy and the JAI Institute for Parents.

Los Angeles, CA, January 1 – Ascend Healthcare, leading provider of residential treatment for adolescents struggling with mental health and resultant substance use disorders, has promoted Brittany Cohen, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to Executive Director. She had previously served as Director of Operations and Planning for all three of Ascend’s residential homes.

“I’m incredibly excited about the team of professionals that we’ve built,” said Brittany. “The clinical work, when focused through the loving lens we use to examine and evaluate kids’ needs, is really changing lives for them and their families. That’s our goal, and I’m most fulfilled when that’s happening.” 

Brittany attained her bachelor’s degree at the University of Arizona and her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Southern California. She is an LCSW with clinical experience working in outpatient and residential settings with children, adolescents, and adults. She has significant experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, and executive functioning impairments.

"Brittany brings a wealth of clinical and program-building experience which has been phenomenal to watch being put into action. Her capacity to streamline systems while simultaneously ensuring the highest caliber of client-care is incredible,” said Effie Goldberg, owner and Managing Director of Ascend’s Healthcare’s residential treatment centers. “She just has an incredible sense of people and it shows in the staff and in the clients we treat every day.”

Ascend Healthcare is a residential treatment center located in Encino and Santa Clarita, CA, both suburbs of Los Angeles. Ascend offers a 45-90 day, an insurance-based program of treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. The adolescent treatment center’s program serving ages 12 -17 is designed to treat the entire family system and help teach teens of all genders and gender identities to emotionally self-regulate in a healthy manner, helping families evolve into safe and supportive units. Ascend Healthcare is licensed by the State of California.

If you would like more information about this topic, please call Seamus at 310-359-9403 or email seamus@ascendhc.com

Denver, CO:  Along Their Way is excited to announce an expansion of their services into coaching and life skills training for clients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.  As part of her prior efforts to support parents of struggling teens, founder Jamie Blume, a certified ADHD life coach, recognized a gap in support services for teenagers and young adults suffering from ADHD.  As a result, Along Their Way proudly added ADHD and Executive Functioning Skill Training (EFST) to its expanding client offerings.

Along Their Way’s ADHD/EFST program now supports teens, young adults, and families as they navigate the complexities and rewards of ADHD.  Jamie explains, “Through my work with parents, I recognized that many challenges within the family unit arose from a lack of understanding of the symptoms associated with a child’s ADHD. Our expanded practice allows us to shine a light on areas that previously remained in the dark, thereby helping our clients and their families create safe places for growth and forward action.”

In this expanded practice, Jamie creates an open, positive environment to nurture understanding and compassion and helps clients develop the tools necessary to confidently manage their distractions, hyperactivity, overwhelm, procrastination, and impulsivity.  Jamie’s approach allows clients to discover that success lies within them as they face and overcome their ADHD challenges. For more information about offerings at Along Their Way, please contact jamie@alongtheirway.com or call (303) 506-5776.

Along Their Way, LLC, empowers teens and young adults with ADHD and life challenges to understand their unique brain wiring, discover their strengths and passions, develop self-compassion, and realize they are in control of the choices they make also remains dedicated to helping parents navigate their way down around, and through the circuitous path associated with a teen or young adult in crisis.

Parent Coach Professionals announces a new Parent Coach Training Course beginning Tuesday, February 16th, 2021.  This is a 16 week/40-hour, International Coaching Federation (ICF) approved course. Upon completion of this course, graduates are recognized as a Certified Parent Coach through Parent Coach Training Academy and may apply their 40 credit hours toward an ICF credential.

This course is perfect for professionals who want to improve their skills and expand their services, as well as those new to the field.  Students will learn to support clients to develop greater awareness, improve communication, and explore solutions while inspiring them to grow as parents.

Course requirements & curriculum include:

• Teleconferences every Tuesday from 10:00-12:00 PM PST
• 30-45 minutes of reading and review of materials weekly (outside of class)
• Instruction in ICF Core Competencies
• Direct instruction and coaching demonstration facilitated by MCC & PCC level coaches
• 8 in class, peer coaching sessions (4 as a coach, 4 as a client)

Class details:

• Class starts February 16th
• Class ends June 8th
• Last day to register is February 5th
• A $500 deposit and signed contract is required to hold a space

For more information or questions, you can contact Colin Cass at colincass753@gmail.com , (541) 610-8109, or go to:  https://www.parentcoachprofessionals.com/academy

Parent Coach Professionals was founded in 2011 and has been one of the leading Parent Coaching Programs in the country ever since. Parent Coach Professionals has coaches based all over the United States and works with families all over the country. Parent Coach Professionals works with families directly or works as an objective third party with residential, therapeutic and transitional programs prior to, during and after treatment. 

In an effort to support young people who need and want a fun, mindful way to get outdoors and reconnect with themselves, Evoke Therapy Programs has designed a springtime southern Utah multi-sport program from March 12-14, open to those 18 years and older.

The trip begins in St. George at a briefing and get-to-know-you session with Evoke’s professional, highly-experienced wilderness therapy guides. That afternoon the group takes a hike through the red rock that only insiders know about and finishes the day at private lodging to minimize exposure to outside groups.

The second day is the centerpiece of the trip; a full day of canyoneering, just outside of Zion National Park. “Canyoneering is a multi-sport activity that includes hiking, climbing, rappelling and sometimes even swimming,” says Sara Carroll, planner of Evoke’s Pursuits trips. “It’s an excellent way to unite a group in mutual support and play because everyone has to work together to get through each of the canyon’s natural features. It makes for tons of camaraderie and a real feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day.”
 
The final day is more contemplative, spent taking in the desert wildflower bloom, lounging at the Virgin River, and practicing mindfulness and yoga.
 
The trip includes: Transportation during program, lodging, meals, climbing ropes, all technical gear, helmets, and expert guides. Please email Sara@evoketherapy.com for questions, costs, or reservations.

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.

All clients in both Applewood Transitions for Young Women and Journey Transitions for Young Men are currently employed.  This is quite an accomplishment given the current economic environment, which is being impacted by a global pandemic.  Unemployment numbers seem to be climbing in many parts of the country, but the staff of Q&A have worked hard to secure employment opportunities for their young adult clients.  "Having a job - a real job - is the cornerstone of the life skills curriculum," said Marci Jones, Lead Life Coach and Student Services Coordinator.  Clients enrolled in Applewood and Journey gain real-life experience in areas where they have struggled such as budgeting, planning/critical thinking, findling life-work balance, executive functioning, and developing healthy personal and professional boundaries.  Getting and maintaining solid employment is integral to this process.

When clients enroll in Applewood or Journey, they immediately begin the process of learning and practicing these skills.  Each client opens an account at the local community bank where the leadership and staff are happy to partner with the staff of Q&A to assist the young adults as they learn true banking and budgeting skills; this is just one example of the important and successful community partnerships Q&A has developed and maintained over the years.  Canaan Valley Resort State Park and Conference Center is also a long-standing partner, providing a variety of employment opportunities to the clients of Q&A.  This year, thanks to the new leadership at Timberline Mountain Resort, this business has become an additional community partner for Q&A.  The Dollar General Store and the Shop-n-Save Grocery in Davis, WV, are also good partners, providing the clients with opportunities in their stores ranging from clerk to assistant manager.  "We are so blessed to have the support of our community businesses," said Angie Shockley, Founder and CEO, "Without these partners, the clients would not be able to have real experiences or real-life practice while they are enrolled with us, and our goal is to help each client reach complete independence before they leave us."

While some local Tucker County businesses are experiencing financial struggles due to Covid impacts, most have found alternative methods of operation, so they are looking for employees who are consistent, hard-working, and open to learning.  "Our clients fit the needs of the local businesses," continued Jones, "because they have coaching and external supports to help them manage through difficult situations that all employees encounter in work environments; our clients are malleable and eager to learn new things."

Having all clients of Applewood and Journey fully employed is a great achievement and sets the stage for effective programming and opportunities for success with each client.

About Q&A Family of Programs

Q&A Family of Programs works with young adults ages 18 and up, providing opportunities for each of them to develop independent, functional, and happy lives with a high level of quality. Our clients have struggled to reach independence for a variety of reasons such as the inability to develop and/or implement the life skills needed to be successful, or struggling to obtain consistent employment. Our goal is to help these individuals find meaning and an authentic purpose for their lives and a practical path to achieve their goals.

Launching January 2021, the Oliverian School, a nurturing college-preparatory boarding school with therapeutic supports in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, is jumping into the second semester by offering a new set of 'Pillar Classes.' Oliverian’s 'Pillar Curriculum' of Art, Adventure, and Outdoor Stewardship allows students the opportunity to find passions outside of the classroom.  Because Oliverian views these extracurriculars as foundational for engagement, learning, and self-discovery, students start each academic day with a pillar class of their choosing.  The rest of the school day builds on these creative, social, and highly experiential classes.

At Oliverian, the comprehensive college-prep curriculum is central, but the non-traditional Pillar Curriculum serves as a critical complement to academics.  Students actively engage in the visual arts, music, outdoor adventures such as rock climbs, trust walks, mountain bike rides, and nature hikes, as well as stewardship activities that involve forestry management and community service.  Recent pillar classes have titles like True Grit, Reclaiming the Cave, and Finding Your Voice. Through Pillars, Oliverian students who have often struggled with the traditional school are able to connect with teachers in new ways while gaining exposure to creative, challenging, and exciting new activities.

Oliverian is a place where adolescents can explore who they are and how they fit in the world. Through a traditional boarding school model coupled with on-campus therapists and clinically trained staff, students are able to prepare for college while discovering a natural, authentic, and confident sense of self to carry them into young adulthood and beyond. Pillars are a critical foundation for this growth. Bessa Axelrod, Dean of Pillar Curriculum, says it best: “Pillar classes help students to grow into their identity. Oli students find connections for a full life through stewardship, adventure, and fine arts, giving them a toolbox of skills they can utilize through adulthood.”

About the Oliverian School

Oliverian School, located in Pike, New Hampshire, is a non-profit all gender boarding school with college prep academics and an average class size of five and a one to one faculty to student ratio, including three full-time licensed therapists. Our campus is contiguous with 2000 acres of recreational preserve land. Oliverian is licensed by the state of New Hampshire and accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.  For more information please contact our Admissions Department at 888.922.5565

Equinox RTC, a residential treatment center for teen boys ages 14-18, in partnership with Edgenuity, has received approval to offer Advanced Placement (AP) credit for Environmental Science, with students now having the option to take the AP exam at the end of their course. AP courses transfer college-level credits to colleges and universities, fast-tracking students to degree completion.

Equinox partners with Edgenuity to offer additional courses for students outside of their standard, teacher-led, classroom curriculum. The Edgenuity platform contains a variety of AP courses such as Calculus AB, English Language and Composition, US History, and Statistics. These courses are online-based but taken in the classroom with on-site teacher support and supervision.

Equinox provides individualized academic plans to help students succeed in the classroom. Master’s level on-site instructors teach core high school courses in small classroom sizes that allow for a greater and more personalized connection with their students. In addition to the AP credit courses, Equinox provides additional college and career counseling to students. Students benefit from official SAT and ACT preparation courses with one-on-one teacher support. Teachers assist students in writing college application essays and navigating the application process itself. 

“Helping students get ready for the next step in their lives is part of what we do,” said Bonnie Richardson, Academic Director at Equinox. “Whether that is college prep classes or finding an apartment or sober living options for after graduation, we can help them navigate those processes and support them in their decisions.”

Equinox teachers and therapists collaborate with students to create the best plan for stepping into adulthood. Life skills and leadership groups reiterate the importance of making healthy choices and preparing for the day to day changes students will face as they graduate and leave the program. Students are supported each step of the way by the integrated care team of therapists, teachers, and mentors.

About Equinox RTC

Equinox RTC is a leading residential treatment center for boys ages 14-18. Equinox is unique in its focus on Trauma, Loss, and Attachment, providing clinically intensive treatment for boys struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, ASD, learning disabilities, and other emotional and behavioral needs. Equinox offers a combination of clinically sophisticated support with a whole-person approach including adventure therapy, a health and fitness program, and a whole foods diet. Equinox provides a fully accredited school, with broad course selections taught by licensed teachers in a college-preparatory environment.

Educational Resources Unlimited, an Integrative Educational and Therapeutic Consultation firm, has launched a new website to reflect a transition in ownership: www.eruconsults.com.

“Over the past year-and-a-half, we have built on Educational Resources Unlimited's (ERU) foundation while continuing to offer an integrative and highly-individualized approach tailored to the unique needs of every young person,” says ERU owner Lauren Seltzer, LMFT. “My professional expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Integrative Health and Wellness, and relationship-focused treatment is reflected in our new website, and I look forward to continuing to form meaningful and trusting relationships with families.”

In 1997, Educational Resources Unlimited was established by Barbara Posner, a longtime educator and advocate for students with special needs. Lauren Seltzer joined ERU in 2019, taking over the practice from Barbara, with whom she worked professionally for many years while employed as a clinician at a therapeutic boarding school. Built on a family friendship of over 35 years, the foundation of Barbara and Lauren’s relationship is rooted in authentic connection and a professional alignment of Lauren’s clinical and academic background with Barbara’s 20+ years in educational consultation.

Lauren Seltzer is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She holds a Master’s in Counseling from San Francisco State University and a Bachelor’s in Education from the University of Vermont. She also holds a certificate in Holistic Health Counseling. 

Lauren chaired the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) Northeast conference for four years and served on various committees for the Association. She has presented at the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), Small Boarding Schools Association (SBSA), NATSAP, and other industry conferences and events. 

Lauren offers workshops and presentations on themes of compassion and self-care within the therapeutic and educational industry, as well as locally in Connecticut. Lauren is a member of IECA and serves on the IECA’s Foundation Board, and is in the process of becoming a Therapeutic Consultant Member of NATSAP and SBSA.

About Educational Resources Unlimited

Founded in 1997 with locations in Katonah, NY and New Haven, CT Educational Resources Unlimited ( ERU) offers an integrative and highly-individualized approach tailored to the unique needs of every client at this full-service Education and Therapeutic Consulting firm.  Lauren Seltzer, owner of the company, is a licensed marriage and family therapist who also offers workshops and presentations.

Pacia Life's Coaching Model serves young adults clients who need a personalized approach to their education.  Many young adults are at some stage of their college journey. While their individual circumstances are unique, they generally fall into a few groups.

Students who have attended college but are taking a break.

These young people have encountered struggles, whether academically, emotionally, or socially, resulting in them leaving school voluntarily - or being asked to leave due to failing grades. When working with these students, it is important to be acutely aware that they are in a precarious place in their relationship with academics and their view of themselves and their competency. 
Students can only experience so many perceived failures or setbacks before giving up on college entirely, so it’s very intentional how to guide their next steps. This often involves slowly getting them back into college-level work and making sure support systems are in place to ensure their ability to navigate the challenges. 

Students exploring the option of college for the first time.

These students need guidance going through the entire college application process, from researching schools and areas of study to visiting college campuses, navigating applications and essays, and all the way through to submission.  Pacia Life & Evolve Tutoring and College Admissions Coaching, an award-winning Boston based company, work closely together to shepherd them through the entire process. 

Students who are not sure if traditional college is for them.

Even though a large percentage of high school graduates complete a full-time college that leads to a bachelor's degree, that is not the only choice. Those students who are unsure of what's next need guidance and support to help them find local or online classes in areas they have interest in to help ascertain whether they are academically in the place even to pursue college-level work.  Pacia Life assists researching alternatives with them, whether that be a specialized associate's degree or a certificate in a field that is not only practical but is also stackable and portable as they progress into their professional life.

Pacia Life has the team and resources in place to support all clients in their own personal journey to education.. Alan Houghtaling, Academic Director, and the team have helped students finish high school, re-enter college, get into their dream college, attain professional certifications, and get vocational training in a skilled trade. The sky is truly the limit.

About Pacia Life

Pacia Life was founded in 2013 with the intention and passion to fill a gaping void in the clinical needs, the transition from therapeutic programs to real-life, education, life skills, grit, resiliency, and personal needs for emerging young adults. Today, Pacia Life has grown into an international organization serving young adults from 17 and up. We currently offer six full-service locations and two step down locations. Each location is created to meet specific and unique needs.

BOULDER, COLO. [January 11, 2021] – Choice House, a residential and transitional program for men struggling with substance use, co-occurring mental health, and trauma, is set to wrap up this month a complete renovation of its Residential Campus, home of “The Lookout”, the Choice for Men 90 day primary program. This addition will add two spots to their capacity, bringing the overall bed space to 22.

After purchasing their Residential Campus last year, Choice House began an immediate renovation at their North Boulder Campus the Lookout. This renovation is not only aesthetically beneficial to the program but expands its ability to help men and provide effective and unique treatment experiences. 

“The Lookout is the home base for our hybrid model of Residential and Wilderness Treatment and just like our men, it deserves the best,” said Jordan Hamilton, Executive Director and co-owner of Choice House. “This renovation only helps us to deliver the highest quality care to our men and to reach even more of them.”

Choice House strives to make addiction treatment as accessible as possible, integrating the ability to work with insurance carriers for its 90-day residential treatment and intensive outpatient programs, which can significantly reduce treatment cost while helping to ensure the comprehensive support needed to achieve lasting sobriety. Men with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders may choose from several treatment options, including a 90-day residential treatment program, intensive outpatient program, and a structured sober living community. 

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 (IOP), all paired with world-class outdoor adventure and experiential work. The treatment center helps support those on their road to lasting recovery with a strong focus on beautiful Colorado outdoors. Learn more at choicehousecolorado.com.

Red Oak Recovery® is pleased to announce that Lynn Wadsworth, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, CTT-1, is shifting into a newly created role of Director of Clinical Services for Red Oak Recovery® programs. With over six years at Red Oak Recovery® and The Willows at Red Oak Recovery®, Lynn is uniquely poised to oversee the ongoing training and growth of the clinical teams for the specific populations they serve.

As Director of Clinical Services, Lynn will provide clinical and programmatic leadership utilizing evidenced-based practices and innovative treatments to ensure effective delivery of the highest level of services to clients and families.  This role allows Red Oak Recovery® programs to continue to develop and cultivate their already clinically sophisticated programming.

“Lynn Wadsworth joined us right after we opened and helped develop our unique family program. Since then, she has held a variety of clinical and managerial roles, with the last one being Executive Director of The Willows at Red Oak Recovery®,” says Jack Kline, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CTT-2, MAC, Founder, and President. “Having someone who possesses Lynn’s vast experience and knowledge has been a tremendous asset to the company, and in many ways, this new role formalizes what she already does for the company. In this new role, Lynn will be helping to train new clinicians, supporting our three clinical directors, overseeing the continuing evolution of our family program, and bringing in new clinical training that supports our state-of-the-art clinical programming with adolescents and young adults.”

About Red Oak Recovery

 Red Oak Recovery® programs are located throughout Western North Carolina and include clinically-driven and gender-separate trauma-focused mental health and substance abuse treatment for young adult men (www.redoakrecovery.com), young adult women (www.thewillowsatredoak.com), and adolescent boys (www.foothillsatredoak.com).  Learn more by reaching out to 866.457.7590.

Lake House Academy is thrilled to announce that Sara Parisi has joined the team as Executive Director. Sara brings many years of leadership experience from her time as a military intelligence officer. Following her time in the military, Sara’s passion and drive to help others led her to complete her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of North Carolina at Pembroke.

“I am equally humbled and honored to serve as the Executive Director of Lake House Academy, and delighted to bring my decade’s worth of leadership experience and apply it directly towards my passion as a professional in the mental health field. The responsibility that I have been entrusted with to spark joy and heal generations is one that I have embraced, and I am so grateful for the amazing team of professionals at Lake House Academy to help me in this journey,” stated Parisi.

Heidi Strand has transitioned into the role of Director of Professional Relations for Lake House Academy. Strand will work closely with Admissions Director Erika Mackey and the Lake House Academy leadership team in marketing and outreach efforts.

Strand stated, “I am excited to be working alongside Sara and the Lake House leadership team to magnify the journey of our families and referral partners. My priorities include serving as a resource for our existing community, developing and delivering robust Alumni services, and providing a deeper perspective of the healing work of our students and their families.”

About Lake House Academy

Lake House Academy is a therapeutic boarding school outside of Asheville, NC focused on meeting the emotional and academic needs of adolescent girls age 12-16. Lake House Academy helps girls find healing through play and reconnect on a deeper level with their families. By combining play with superior academics and a healthy, home-like environment, Lake House girls develop the resiliency and confidence needed to thrive throughout life. To learn more about Lake House Academy please visit https://www.lakehouseacademy.com or call Erika Mackey at 828-329-7441. 

In the winter of 2018, College Excel realized a goal that was many months in the making.  As a leader in the field of college support since 2003, College Excel has often been in the driver's seat of identifying needs in higher education and then implementing responses.  One of the needs identified was in helping students to better manage their life outside of the classroom.  In the hope to offer that level of support to the classmates of College Excel students, as well, the program developed a 3-credit college course open to all students at Central Oregon College.  The course is called Strategies for Life Management and since 2018, dozens of students have benefited from its offerings.  Since its creation Strategies for Life Management has been taught by a full-time College Excel coach or director and is a requirement of all first-term students at the program. 

The goal of Strategies for Life Management is to help college students identify and manage internal factors that contribute to positive mental, physical and emotional health during their college journey. Topics that are explored include, but aren't limited to anxiety, emotional intelligence, stress management, nutrition, sleep, exercise, and substance use. Through exploring proven strategies for self-management, students are able to analyze, create, and implement a personalized set of habits and a routine that will support their journey through college and beyond. 

One College Excel alumni put it simply, “Strategies for Life Management should be a requirement of all college students as they start their experience.  It’s the info that high school doesn’t prepare you for but is critical for someone’s well-being”.

College Excel will continue to refine and develop this valuable course as the needs of students change year after year.  The course is available online through Central Oregon Community College for the time being so anyone wishing to experience its content can do so from anywhere in the country.

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.

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.

Wingate Wilderness Therapy has offered academic credit for many years and has now made the decision to absorb the cost of credits instead of passing the investment on to parents.  COVID-19 has left families and teenagers the need to adjust to a continually changing world. Receiving and obtaining academic instruction and academic credit has continued to stand out as an area of concern for all families who are enrolling in the wilderness therapy program.  

While at Wingate, students are able to earn 6 half credits in Health and Fitness, Consumer Science -Nutrition, Outdoor Education, Environmental Science, Language Arts, Consumer Science -Teen Living.  Each student enrolled has the opportunity to earn the credits offered after completing at least 60 days of the Wingate wilderness therapy program.  Wingate’s Executive Director, Shayne Gallagher, states “families are in need of help more now than ever before and as a program, we are constantly looking for ways to lighten the load” for a family.  The goal is absorbing these costs is to continually evolve to meet the needs of the students and families who enroll at Wingate and adjust to the creativity to the changing world, 

WinGate Wilderness Therapy 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.

Educational and therapeutic consulting firm HarrisKramer & Liston (HK&L) is thrilled to announce its expansion with three additional dynamic consultants. HK&L matches students from preschool to college and beyond with the schools and programs that fit their unique needs, partnering with families on the journey from challenge to success. Areas of expertise range from traditional and specialized day and boarding schools to a broad range of therapeutic options including those that specialize in the treatment of mental health and substance abuse. Coverage areas now include New York, Connecticut, the Greater Boston area, and the Southwest region of the US.  

“I am ecstatic because our new consultants are inspiring, energetic, and deeply committed to the health and success of our young people and their families,” said Jodi Liston, President of HK&L.

Katie Conroy Ciervo joins HK&L bringing years of professional knowledge and personal insights into guiding and supporting families in crisis. For over six years, she served as the Director of Admissions and Outreach for a young adult transitional program. Katie then transitioned from the program side to the family and placement work she enjoys most, as an Independent Therapeutic and Educational Consultant with a practice in Connecticut for the past several years. She is also certified as a parent coach from The JAI Institute of Parent Coaching and a member of the International Association of Coaches (IAC). Her dedication to making each and every family feel heard and understood is recognized by colleagues around the industry. Katie brings her expertise, knowledge, and care to a thorough and individualized approach to placement. Katie expressed, “I couldn’t be more excited to join HarrisKramer & Liston. I have admired them since I’ve worked in the industry. I look forward to continuing supporting families, coaching parents and being a part of this collaborative experienced team.”

Also joining HK&L is Kate Deily, bringing a background of 14 years as an educator, supervisor, parent coach, mentor, and finally Director of Admissions for a therapeutic boarding school for adolescent girls. She is a consummate listener and learner, having seen firsthand the change that can happen when a family and student are connected with the right treatment program. Kate is passionate about working with families to get their children the help they need and create the smoothest transition for everyone involved. Families find Kate’s energy, compassion and experience on the programmatic side of treatment, as well as her business acumen, grounding as they navigate the unknown. Kate stated, “I am very excited to be joining the strong team at HK&L and to continue to provide hope and healing to families.” 

Elisabeth Swain, a passionate educator with more than fifteen years of teaching and administration experience in independent schools and nonprofit development, brings to HK&L her knowledge and expertise in assisting families transitioning from a therapeutic milieu to a specialized or mainstream school. Elisabeth holds a bachelor’s degree from Sarah Lawrence College and two master’s degrees in teaching and educational leadership. Her diverse background also includes serving as a leadership coach in both the private and public sectors. Residing in Rhode Island, just south of Greater Boston, Elisabeth has in-depth knowledge of New England schools, empowering her unique ability to find the environment that will allow each student to flourish.  Guiding families with compassion and a holistic perspective, Elisabeth makes the application process less daunting. She sees the unique potential in each child she guides and provides a clear and detailed path from exploration to acceptance. Elisabeth commented, "I'm thrilled to be joining the incredible team at Harris, Kramer & Liston. Their mission to ensure that students find the most fulfilling path for their education is one that truly resonates with me and I look forward to working with families as they move through this exciting process."

The HK&L collaborative approach empowers every team member to contribute her extensive experience to all HK&L clients. Customized solutions ensure that each family feels heard, seen, and supported and that every child or young adult is matched with the optimal school or program at which he or she can thrive.

About Harris Kramer & Liston

Harris Kramer & Liston (HK&L), founded in 2013, is an educational and therapeutic consulting firm based in Westchester, NY, with satellite offices in Manhattan, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Arizona. HK&L specializes in providing possibilities, offering various supports and structures to nourish families with genuine compassion and a commitment to unparalleled client service. In addition to visiting hundreds of schools and partnering with admission directors, therapists, and educators at each one, the firm personally meets with each family, evaluates records, and speaks with others who understand each child’s strengths and struggles. Ultimately the firm recommends and advocates for the “right fit” to help adolescents or young adults reach their unique potential and access their best selves. 

For questions about current clients or referrals, contact 914-401-4442, Admin@HarrisKramer.com, or Jodi Liston, President of HK&L, at jodi@harriskramer.com.

Trails Carolina, a wilderness therapy program for preteens and adolescents ages 10-17, relaunched their website featuring a new design intended to improve the user experience of families and educational consultants as they browse the site. 

Throughout the new site, families can easily access five years of outcomes data from an ongoing research initiative developed by Trails, in coordination with the Center for Research, Assessment, and Treatment Efficacy (CReATE; Asheville, NC) and the Arkansas Institute. This outcome data was collected independently from Trails Carolina’s involvement and allows parents and visitors to the website to see the positive, lasting changes that students and families make during their time at Trails.  

Additionally, the new website heavily features images and videos of real Trails students and families. By only displaying images of actual students, parents visiting the website can get a more accurate picture of what their child’s experience at Trails might look like. 

“Through a more visual design, we wanted visitors to be able to have a better understanding the experience at Trails,” says Director of Admissions and Outreach Julia Andrick. “The website also includes dozens of testimonials from students and families who have found hope and success from their time at Trails.”

To view the new website, visit https://trailscarolina.com. Families interested in learning more about Trails Carolina can call the admissions team toll-free at (800) 975-7303.  

Trails Carolina is a wilderness therapy program based just outside of Asheville, North Carolina that offers a multi-dimensional wilderness therapy model to troubled adolescents, ages 10-17. Trails capitalizes upon the profound effects of a student’s wilderness experience, and then combines that experience with strong clinical assessments and therapy. For additional information, call the Admissions Team toll-free, please call 800-975-7303.

This winter, students at Seven Stars, a residential treatment center and assessment program for teens ages 13-17, will be attending weekly outings to the National Ability Center in Park City, Utah. The National Ability Center helps “empower individuals of all abilities by building self-esteem, confidence, and lifetime skills through sport, recreation, and educational programs.” At The National Ability Center, students will be engaging in fat-tire biking and cross country skiing. If there isn’t enough snow for those activities, students will be using their indoor climbing facility.

“On our most recent outing to the National Ability Center this past weekend, students were engaged and had a wonderful time,” says Alexander Kelly, Recreational Lead at Seven Stars. “Everyone was able to step outside of their comfort zones and allowed themselves to learn how to be comfortable with being a bit uncomfortable. The National Ability Center has many dedicated instructors who are there to help teach students how to use the equipment and support our staff as students learn new recreational skills.”

In addition to outings at the National Ability Center, students will be taking part in a variety of winter activities over the next couple of months including snowshoeing and ice skating. 

Seven Stars is a leading assessment program and residential treatment center for teens ages 13-17 who struggle with neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD.  For more information about programming at Seven Stars, please visit http://www.discoversevenstars.com/ or call 844-601-1167.

For more information about recreational programming at Seven Stars, please visit https://discoversevenstars.com 

As 2021 begins, Trails Momentum, a young adult wilderness therapy program located in North Carolina, reflects on 2020. From capstone projects to adventure outings to preparing for college, Momentum students had a busy, productive year.

Prior to enrolling at Momentum, many students struggled to be successful in post-secondary settings in 2020. To help students successfully return to a college or university setting, Momentum provides several options to earn college credit and rebuild academic confidence. Over the past year, students collectively earned 72 college credits. The ability to earn college credits while at Momentum helps students move closer to graduation and achieving their educational goals. Momentum graduates who did not transfer into a traditional academic setting like a 4-year university or college moved on to 20 different transition programs. For some Momentum graduates, a transitional setting can help them achieve long term success after they have completed Momentum. 

Adventure programming is at the core of Trails Momentum’s mission to help young adults step out of their comfort zones and onto the next steps of their lives. Adventure programming helps students gain confidence through trying new things and overcoming obstacles.

Brian, a student at Momentum, discussed how his confidence has improved since starting the program. He stated that, “There are many things that I have learned during my time at Momentum, but the one that stuck with me the most is that anything is 100% attainable with 110% effort.” In 2020, adventure outings included canoe expeditions at Lake Jocassee, mountain biking in Dupont State Forest, and day hikes across the Western North Carolina mountains. 

Capstone projects at Momentum are completed by students right before they graduate. Students can choose what they want to base their project on as long as it has a positive impact on the student and their community. A few past examples of capstone projects from this year include making bat boxes, creating a mural in the dorms, building a scarecrow, and writing and performing a play about Trails Momentum. These projects help students build their resume and are a great asset when completing college applications. Additionally, students gain an understanding of what it takes to see a project all the way through from conception to completion. This helps them prepare for longer term goals like college, careers, or exploring personal interests.

Although challenging for many, 2020 was a successful year for Momentum students. Looking forward to 2021, Momentum will continue to support students in their journey to adulthood.

About Trails Momentum

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. 

Elements Wilderness Program is proud to announce that Karen Davis has joined the team as a key member of its Family Department.  “At Elements we know that family engagement and support are vital not just in the treatment process, but to the outcomes of our individual clients,” said Dr. Neal Christensen, Clinical Director and Co-owner. “We are proud of our Family Program’s emphasis on in-person work at Elements, and we see it as a perfect complement to have Karen stepping in to directly serve each of our families, in both a support and educational capacity. We are truly excited to have her on the team providing these additional points of contact over the course of their child’s experience at Elements.”

Ms. Davis is an attorney by trade whose career branched out into Therapeutic and Educational Consulting after experiencing the treatment process firsthand, as a parent of a child in treatment. She is now supporting and challenging Elements parents to fully engage in the treatment process for their own personal growth and to help their children get the most out of treatment. Karen will be hosting parent seminars and providing direct calls to parents throughout the process of their child’s program. 

“I am excited to be a part of the life-changing work of the Elements team, and I am honored to serve each Elements family throughout their wilderness journey.  I know the difference it makes when parents actively participate in their child’s treatment process.  I want each family to feel supported and encouraged to focus on their own work and self-care while their son is at Elements.”

Karen is serving all families who enrolled after January 1st.  If you would like to speak with Elements about its work with clients and their families please contact Kate Lierd, Admissions Director, at 866.542.2252.  

 About Elements Wilderness

Since 2008, Elements Wilderness has been providing a specialized therapeutic intervention for adolescent boys aged 13-17. We at Elements envision a world in which everyone has the skills and support necessary to live a full and healthy life. Through innovative therapeutic and psychiatric intervention, a comprehensive outdoor living experience complete with expeditionary backpacking and adventure programming, a robust family program involving the family at every step, and evidence-based substance abuse treatment, we strive to provide our clients with intervention, treatment, and assessment. Elements is licensed and supervised by the State of Utah Department of Human Services and accredited through the Outdoor Behavioral Health Council and the Association for Experiential Education. For Young Adult wilderness therapy clients,  there is Elements Traverse based in central Utah.

Mike Sullivan, LMHC, has joined True North Wilderness Program as the Director of Business Development. “Mike is eager to work closely with our referral partners, broaden the True North network, and support our mission to serve families,” says Courtney Merrill, Director of Admissions and Outreach. This is a new position that has been created to support True North’s tradition of providing superior therapeutic services to students and families while broadening True North’s professional communication and outreach programs.

Aligned with True North’s commitment to providing outstanding services, Mike’s experience is paramount in engaging referral partners, schools, and mental health professionals. “I was drawn to True North because of authenticity. Ty and Mod built a brand based on trust and compassion, and I want to communicate that to the mental health community,” said Mike Sullivan.

Mike’s sixteen-year history in wilderness therapy is rooted in clinical work, having served teens, young adults, and parents in a variety of roles. Starting from the ground up as a Field Instructor at SUWS Idaho, then as a long-time Clinician in the organic gardens of Pacific Quest in Hawaii, and eventually evolving into a remote Family Services Director in Oregon, Mike developed a deep understanding of the powerful transformations that are catalyzed in the wilderness setting. Concurrently, Mike developed a keen interest in business development, and specifically, how to connect and educate others about the powerful work transpiring in wilderness therapy.

Mike’s contact information is mike@truenorthwilderness.com and 802.595.9090. Don’t hesitate to reach out and connect with Mike.

About True North Wilderness

True North Wilderness was established in 2005 by Ty Maves, LCSW, and Mod Barefoot, LCSW who still own and operate the program. Located in Waitsfield, Vermont, and licensed by the state's Department of Child and Family Services, True North serves adolescents and young adults and their families with a wide range of mental health, behavioral, and relational issues. True North provides assessment, intervention, and transitional planning during the 10-12 week average stay and operates outdoors year-round, with heated indoor sleeping spaces in the winter. 

Pure Life Adventure will be accepting enrollments for young adult applicants for March 1st, 2021.  In March 2020, Pure Life had to suspend all operations due to Costa Rica closing its borders because of the COVID-19 virus and global pandemic.  Pure Life team has been patiently waiting for the opportunity to return to operations ever since. Andrew Taylor, Owner & Founder said, “We have been busy in our time off.”  Pure Life announced they are under new ownership.  Andrew went on to say, “Aspiro has been a great partner and fundamental in the launch of Pure Life.  During COVID-19, Aspiro gave me the opportunity to acquire full ownership of Pure Life and I’m grateful for that.”  Andrew has since partnered with Allan Capp, Program Director and Mara Mueller, MSW, LCSW, CADC-1, are owner-operators, and leadership in Costa Rica.

Allan and Mara bring extensive experience to Pure Life Adventures in Costa Rica.  Allan has over 15 years of professional experience working in wilderness settings and extensive professional experience and personal interest in the outdoors.  Mara has a diverse toolbox as a clinician including MI, ACT, and DBT.  They are both certified Yoga instructors.  With experience in direct care in wilderness therapy and key leadership roles.  

Pure Life Adventure is adding additional programming including equine-assisted interactions.  There will also be college credits available in 2021.   To find out more about this, please contact Andrew Taylor. 

About Pure Life Adventure
Pure Life Adventure is located in the Central Pacific region of beautiful Costa Rica. Relying on decades of experience in the Costa Rican outdoor industry, the bicultural team provides a therapeutically sophisticated and holistic approach to helping young adults with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, executive function deficits, trauma, and substance abuse. The students are individuals with very real challenges looking for lasting change. Pure Life utilizes traditional individual and group therapy in combination with outdoor experiential learning and adventure. The Pure Life integrated and dynamic approach includes an emphasis on fitness, mindfulness, life skills and cultural immersion.

Blue Ridge is delighted to welcome Cater Davis, MFT and Nat Shyu, Field Director to the Clinical and Field Management teams. Both Cater and Nat have the unique advantage of having first been Field Instructors at Blue Ridge before stepping into these new roles. Their experience in the field grants them a valuable perspective into the needs of students and their families as well as Blue Ridge staff. While Cater is joining the clinical team as a Family Therapist, Nat will team up with her co-Field Director, Heather Harvie, playing an essential role on Blue Ridge’s field management team. 

At Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness (BRTW), family participation is a crucial component of students’ long-term success. Like an individual’s whole-body wellness approach, BRTW embraces a whole-family process when working with clients and assessing their needs. Blue Ridge is thrilled to welcome Cater Davis, MFT to our team of Family Therapists as the company maintains its dedication to foster this integral pillar of service. 

Cater, an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, seasoned Field Instructor, and graduate of Appalachian State’s Marriage and Family Therapy Master’s Program, grounds her approach in experiential therapy. As a trained Marriage and Family Therapist, her focus is to support the family in unifying, growing, and working together to support each individual’s needs. Cater is aware that parenting is difficult, and that each parent is doing the best they know how to show up for their child. Her hope is to empower families by helping them learn about themselves and each other as they discover new ways of relating.

Nat Shyu, Field Director, hails from a wide breadth of experience working with teens in the wilderness. Prior to BRTW, she worked as a lead instructor for NC Outward Bound’s FINS program, as an expedition guide for Avid4Adventure in Bailey, CO, and as a Naturalist for a residential overnight program in California. She’s also spent summers as a camp counselor, working primarily with the Counselors in Training (CITs). As Field Director, Nat will work with Heather to nurture Field Staff culture, spend time visiting groups in the field, and hold Field Staff to a high standard, offering support, feedback and guidance.

Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness is grateful to cultivate a growing community of staff who provide excellent service and insight to clients and the team.

About Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness

Blue Ridge Therapeutic Wilderness (BRTW) offers clinically driven wilderness therapy programs encompassing advanced therapeutic skill, 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.

Allkindsoftherapy.com is pleased to announce that 2020 had a 20% increase in traffic to the website with over 150K visitors. The fact-based website is targeted to parents in crisis looking for out of home assessment, treatment to transition for their children, or for young adults to investigate their own options.  Each advertiser on the website must answer many questions to reveal the facts about their licensing, ownership, treatment modalities, and accreditation.  There were several reasons that the 20% increase in visitors to the website including more content from the additional four different types of Experts that were added to the website, over 200 blogs, over 50 new advertisers including small Boarding Schools.   Many of the new visitors were generated from Google Organic search, which rose again for the fifth year.  This year organic search was up 29%, and direct visits rose 18%.   In the spring, there was a dramatic number of direct visitors to the website that coincided with Jenney Wilder, the founder of allkindsoftherapy.com was interviewed on national radio and TV across the United States.  

"2020 was a roller coaster for every person in the United States regardless of their age," said Jenney Wilder, M.S.Ed. Founder of allkindsoftherapy.com.  Before the pandemic, there was a rise in adolescent depression and anxiety across the United States and now according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, more than half the adults in the US are reporting that the pandemic has been negatively impacted from the pandemic.  And so the rise in traffic reveals just some of the struggles that everyone is having.  It also revealed. The rise in traffic to the website created another new trend for the first time in four years, people were visiting the website from their phone.  "Although mobile-first is a trend on the web, it has never been on allkindsoftherapy.com until 2020 when everyone was home," said Wilder also revealed that most of the 150K visitors are using Mac, iPad, and iPhone owners when searching for treatment to transition programs and boarding schools.  Pulling the analytics at the end of a calendar year always reveals new information or furthers a trend.  89% of the visitors to the website come from the United States and are searching for treatment in the United States.  The jobs that were searched and crawled by Google this year were up  64% over 2019.  And the average length of stay for those reading the newsletter through email is over 4 minutes.   If you have questions about advertisers a treatment program or boarding school or want to publish news or a job, please contact Sam Rotondo at sr @ allkindsoftherapy.com or call 202-630-2563.

About All Kinds of Therapy
Launched in 2015, allkindsoftherapy.com is a web-based platform that focuses on interventions, assessment, and varying types of treatment to transition programming for ages 30 and under. All the advertisers on the website must answer revealing facts about their treatment model, clinicians' training, licensing, etc, and offer a level of transparency, unlike any other online treatment, boarding school, or professional directory. The web platform allows the visitor to compare side-by-side, residential options, boarding schools. The professionals listed in the ‘Expert section’ are parent coaches, tele-therapy, tele-assessment, therapeutic consultants who reveal details about their practice. The blog with over 200 entries is directed towards the parents and young adults in search of context and support.