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"Are you a Desperate
Parent?"
At any given moment, a parent in need of help with their child can make some
very rash and costly mistakes. Ask yourself these questions:
1. Do you feel that you are at your wits end?
2. Do you feel you or your family is in danger?
3. Do you feel like something needs to be done now?
4. Do you feel out of control with your child's actions?
5. Do you feel out of control with yourself?
6. Do you feel hopeless and no one will understand?
7. Do you feel completely alone in dealing with this child?
8. Do you feel you lack the capability to make the right decision?
9. Do you feel your child is running your life and the household?
10. Do you feel Desperate?
The feelings of desperation are very real and very painful,
however it is not the time to make rash decisions. In most cases, the
dysfunction has taken months if not years, to come to pass. It will not be
resolved in an instant decision to "send your child away" the quickest and
easiest way. This is the most important time to stop, think, research, evaluate
and conclude what is best for your child and family.
If you have answered yes to any of the above questions, it
is time to reflect and begin planning your alternatives. It is not time to make
any decisions. We feel that if you are working with a Psychologist, Therapist or
Doctor, they should always be consulted first. Once it is determined residential
treatment is needed, it is time for your research to start.
Information and resources will be a valuable asset. When
calling the schools and programs, be sure they are looking for your child's best
interest. Any program that is quick to enroll your child is not in your best
interest. Always keep notes, and document every conversation. When contacting a
program; does the Admissions Director ask you questions about your child or do
the go directly into how their program can help them? How do they know they
can help, if they haven't taken the time to listen to your child’s needs?
As a parent, your heart and gut will tell you when you have
found the right placement for your child. Again, the advice of a Professional
(i.e. Doctor) is always beneficial, but not always the end result. Most Doctor's
are not familiar with the many residential treatments centers throughout the
country, but can give you advice as to what your child's needs are.
In some cases urgency is needed. Especially with some legal
matters, however many can go into a local Adolescent Psychiatric Hospital for
2-3 days (usually insurance paid) until you can do your
homework. Make the most of the 24-36 hours with your research. This can
buy you time to find the most appropriate placement for your child.
When your search starts, use caution to a desperate
sales person. Many Admissions Personnel are paid per enrollment. Although
everyone is entitled to make a living, when it comes to your child, there should
be a division. It is more beneficial to speak with a program owner, Director or
therapist at the facility. These people are usually not sales people and want
their program to succeed. They will screen their potential students to be sure
they are a fit for their program.
Parent’s Universal Resource Experts does
not do admissions and/or enrollments.
We always encourage parents to contact the programs directly to determine if the
program is appropriate for your child’s needs.
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