Pressing Pause: The Truth About Wilderness Programs & Boarding Schools

Plan P

In this timely episode of Plan P, hosts Sarah Pollak and Quinn Faison delve into a significant and often debated topic: therapeutic wilderness programs and boarding schools for troubled teens. Drawing from their own personal journey, where they made the challenging decision to send their son to a wilderness program over a decade ago, Sarah and Quinn share their insights and experiences.

This episode serves as an informative guide for parents, emphasizing that therapeutic wilderness programs and boarding schools are just one of many options available. The hosts stress the importance of understanding that there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to helping struggling teens. The focus here is on offering an opportunity, not a mandate, for both teens and parents to engage in transformative work separately.

Sarah and Quinn emphasize a crucial point: change requires effort from both sides. They advocate for parents to recognize that their own growth and willingness to change are essential components of nurturing a healthy relationship with their teens. Tune in to gain valuable insights, perspectives, and resources, empowering parents to make informed decisions while fostering understanding and empathy in the journey toward healing and growth.

More About Teen Therapeutic Programs

• Listen to Episode 2: Overcoming Parental Peer Pressure
• Books
  • "What Now?" by Dr. Paul Case
  • "Shouting at the Sky" by Gary Ferguson

This Week’s Practice: Informed Decision-Making

This week's practice urges parents to approach the challenging decision of seeking help for their struggling teen with thoughtfulness and care. Begin by considering all available options—therapeutic wilderness programs, boarding schools, and more. Write down these choices and seek counsel from trusted individuals, valuing their perspectives and insights.

Take time to deeply reflect on the reasons guiding your decision-making process. Ensure that your choices are rooted in genuine concern for your teen's well-being, the overall family dynamics, and the long-term health of your relationship. Resist making decisions out of fear or panic, prioritizing what aligns with the best interests of your teen and your family. This practice encourages mindful consideration, enabling you to make informed choices that pave the way for a healthier, supportive future.

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Visit planp.us to learn more and get access to resources to build healthy relationships with your pre-teens, teens and young adult children!