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Each family situation is unique and therefore, each family’s experience will be slightly different. Below is a general outline of a typical case.
Initial consultation
Taking up to 30 minutes, this free consultation is generally done over the phone. This is an opportunity for family members to ask questions and learn what to expect. It allows us to get a feel for the family’s issues and determine whether or not we will be able to help.
Evaluation
During our intake process, we meet with the parents and student separately
to obtain a thorough history of the student and the family. To get a full
picture of the child's strengths, challenges, and needs, we ask parents to
bring copies of all school records and testing data. We will review the
records and conduct interviews with selected individuals (e.g. teachers,
counselors, coaches). An appointment will also be scheduled with the student
individually.
Recommendation
After determining the optimal type of environment for the child, we provide a list of recommended programs or schools and discuss the pros and cons of each program. Once a program is selected and space availability is determined, parents are responsible for submitting the application and deposit to secure the available space. We will expedite the application process in any way we are able.
Monitoring and Advocacy
For the duration of the child’s stay at a program we maintain regular phone contact with the parents and the staff. In the case of therapeutic placements, this will include scheduled updates from the student’s primary therapist, scheduled calls with you, the occasional conference call with you and your child’s therapist, and other calls when needed. In the case of non-therapeutic placements, we will determine a schedule for regular contact.
Follow-up Planning and Support
Our consulting contract includes basic coaching for transition and reunification after a residential school or program – a crucial part of the process. We may provide additional placement assistance, recommend comprehensive aftercare providers, and meet with the student to share in their success. This coaching is given in occasional 30–60 minute phone or conference calls with the parents and program personnel. This is not meant to be a comprehensive transition planning service. That service is covered as part of our Life Learning Services.
Therapy, Workshops, Transition Planning
Many families supplement their contract, taking advantage of our additional services for parent support, therapy, and/or experiential workshops. Please look at the Family Services part of this website for details. Contracts for these services are created on an individual family basis.
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