Family Involvement

Critical to the success of the emotional growth process, healing and reunification is the commitment and involvement of the family. At Bridges Academy, we put a large emphasis on family participation... they are viewed as partners in the whole emotional growth process and their perspectives are given consideration in the development, implementation and evaluation of their teen's Individualized Achievement Plan. At Bridges Academy, the family's journey begins with identifying and setting goals that are designed to address the needs of the individual student within the broader context of healing the family. The family counseling process then works toward achieving these goals and providing ongoing support.

Telephone Counseling

Once a student has demonstrated a willingness to accept the program, telephone counseling calls involving the student and family members are scheduled weekly. These family counseling calls are facilitated by a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist who brings out clarity, empathy and respect integrating parental concerns with those of their teen, ensuring that both are working toward the same objectives.

Bi-Monthly Family Workshops

Additional growth occurs through family workshops held every other month. These all-day workshops focus on rebuilding trust, learning and practicing conflict resolution skills, exploring new and positive communication skills, practicing family meetings, and simply enjoying each other's company. Families are required to attend at least two family workshops during their son's program and are always welcome to attend more.

"...the workshops have helped us to better understand
the ways in which we as parents need to work
ourselves to further our son's growth."