These positive, nurturing residential services are designed for boys and girls ages 10 to 17 who struggle in social, family and school environments. Youth at risk are referred primarily through contracts with public agencies. (For more information about residential services for privately referred children, click here.)
Eckerd outdoor therapeutic services combine fully accredited education with counseling and therapeutic outdoor adventures. Youth live in rural, outdoor settings in small groups of 8 to 10 with trained and caring counselors. Our outdoor therapeutic programs help youth:
- Develop skills in handling conflicts peacefully
- Strengthen communication skills
- Build self-esteem
- Develop accountability and personal responsibility
- Respect others
- Create positive relationships
Each child’s treatment plan is individualized and may include:
Group, Individual and Family Counseling – Each child lives, works, studies, and plays in a gender-specific group of 10 to 12 youth and two trained counselors/teachers.
Behavior Management – Helping children take personal responsibility, build positive relationships and experience personal growth.
Accredited Year-Round Alternative Education – Each on-campus alternative school is fully licensed by state authorities and accredited. Educational credits are transferable to the home school.
Social Skills and Life Skills Training – Students learn skills to help them get along with others and maximize potential.
Family Support and Involvement – Family involvement is one of the keys to our high success rate.
Transition Planning and Follow-up – A formal plan is developed to help ease each child’s transition back home.
