Therapeutic Boarding Schools
Therapeutic boarding schools are residential treatment programs for young people ages 10 to 22 years. Their mission differs from that of traditional boarding schools. Like traditional boarding schools, they provide academics, recreation and dormitory life. However, their main goal is an intense, 24-hour therapeutic intervention in the lives of troubled young people. Usually students undergo daily and weekly therapy on an individual and group basis. Parents participate in occasional weekend workshops. The average student stays between eight and fourteen months.
Some therapeutic boarding schools specialize in conditions that affect academic achievement, such as learning disabilities or attention deficit disorder. Others are for troubled teens experiencing behavioral-based problems like running away, sexual promiscuity, or substance abuse. There are also schools for students with Asperger Syndrome, bipolar disorder, and other such psychological issues.
PROS
Therapeutic boarding schools often boost superior academics with small class sizes and plenty of individual attention. Many times a child can succeed for the first time academically, and begin to take an actual interest in schoolwork.
Even a short stay at one of these schools removes the child from the influence of an inappropriate peer group or bullies and offers a fresh start in a new place.
A child with a lifelong condition such as bipolar disorder or attention deficit disorder can learn the necessary skills to cope with it on a long-term basis.
A good school will have a top-notch and complex admissions program that will often better pinpoint and diagnose the child's strengths and weaknesses.
Working and living with therapists 24/7 can bring great improvement in a short time.
CONS
Therapeutic boarding schools are an expensive alternative to local resources or outpatient programs, although student loans are often available to help defray the costs.
Therapeutic boarding schools are a newer type of program and wilderness programs are largely unregulated. You have to be careful to choose one where the staff is professional, licensed and holds advanced degrees. Confirm any accreditation the school claims by contacting the accrediting body so as to ensure that accreditation will allow your child to transfer school credits back to their home school.
Make sure the school has a good "aftercare" program in place to help with the transition home.
Some schools employ too strict, even abusive policies. Some take too many kinds of students or students whose psychiatric problems are too severe for such placement. Ask the school for a list of references so you can speak with parents of alumni students. Tour the school and watch the student and staff interactions.
Research Therapeutic Boarding Schools
