Therapeutic Approach

The Therapeutic Approach at Spring Ridge Academy utilizes a combination of family systems and developmental models to create a comprehensive scope of treatment. Within this model, we identify and address six key, interlinked concepts affecting the quality of life for adolescents and their families:

• Identity
• Attachment
• Parenting Style/Method
• Communication
• Executive Functioning 
• Social Functioning

By addressing each of these key areas, we are able to assess the strengths of each family while identifying the areas that are not functioning effectively. The therapist, treatment team, parents and student can then generate and implement a plan to develop areas of weakness or deficit, while utilizing the strengths within the family to support growth and change.

How do we do this? We facilitate balance between the parents, step-parents and/or caregivers, allowing them to function from “the same page”. We reframe the relationship between parents and daughter, defining the parents as allies and resources to be used in coping with a challenging world rather than enemies to be defeated or obstacles to be circumvented. We help your daughter find her own sense of self, learn to love herself and to make choices that support change, success and excellence.

This foundation of success and self-esteem assists each student to continue to make choices that reinforce self-respect while enrolled at SRA and as she transitions into young adulthood. These choices include maintaining healthy, productive relationships with family and peers, continuing to face and cope with addictions and challenges, completing and excelling in her education and being honest with herself and others. Even if she should venture off-course, a graduate of Spring Ridge Academy has the ability to regroup, ask for help and continue with her growth.