In the face of the pandemic, students around the country have had to adjust to new ways of learning. At Solstice West, a residential treatment center for students ages 14-18, students have been able to excel despite changes in campus life and learning. 

Health, both physical and mental, has been brought to the forefront of thinking at Solstice West. Confronted with the pandemic’s changes, Solstice West students were given the chance to use more of the skills they learned in therapy in the classroom. “Students watch the news every day in class, so they are very much aware of current events and what’s going on in the world,” said Jamie Murphy, Academic Director. “The students learn critical thinking skills by talking through what they see, as well as being able to use the regulation skills they have learned in therapy if something, especially like Covid-19, is making them feel a certain way.”

Solstice West places a major emphasis on integrating their academic programming with students’ treatment plans. With an integrated team of cross-departmental staff including teachers, therapists, and residential mentors, students are supported in all aspects of their treatment. When the pandemic caused schedules to change, the team knew the students would need all-around support.

“We try to teach students flexibility, and also help them be aware of what strategies work well for them,” Murphy said. “For example, there may be some students that need some front loading, who’ll be told in advance when a schedule is going to change. Knowing how they react in those circumstances and how to cope with the stress of unexpected changes will be important for them moving forward.”

For graduation, students donned their cap and gowns while their families participated via Zoom. Solstice West is proud of its graduates who excelled in spite of adversity. 

About Solstice West RTC

Solstice West RTC is a residential treatment center for teen girls that has helped hundreds of struggling teens on their journey to solving issues like trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Solstice RTC, located in Layton, Utah, offers a specialized, clinically intensive program based on the specific needs of young women. At Solstice RTC, young women discover their full potential. For additional information on Solstice RTC, please visit https://solsticertc.com or call 801-444-0794.