One of the goals of our group home is that each resident, particularly adolescents, will eventually transition back to their home or to a semi-independent living situation when appropriate. For this to occur, parents or guardians are expected to actively participate in the transition process developed by our team, which includes aspects of adolescent leadership and therapeutic mentoring.
Family Child Plan
When appropriate, families must be encouraged to stay involved with their child while she is staying at the home, ensuring that mental health services are effectively utilized. The resident may choose to spend an evening or weekend at home. This strategy helps keep the family connected and paves the way for a successful final transition home.
During the initial referral contact, the needs of the family are described by the referring person or agency. During the intake process, parents are invited to visit the home with their child. Parents are expected to engage in the program to the greatest extent possible. Regular visitation and an active role in seasonal activities of the program are offered to enhance the overall family involvement.
For long-term residential care, contact with families is maintained through phone calls, meetings, and invitations for family members to share in various activities and field trips, reinforcing the connection through our parent guide.
Parent Training
Parents are also invited to participate in our training program, which provides essential techniques for working with their children and developing a better understanding of various medical conditions and disabilities. The nature and scope of services will be outlined in the Individual Service Plan.
Prior to admission, parents are given an organizational chart and informed about the case manager and how to contact her. An information packet is provided, detailing the program, services, and related policies and procedures. The designated staff person is expected to establish a professional relationship and maintain regular contact for the following purposes:
- Obtaining parental consents
- Providing crisis intervention/assessment, if necessary
- Assisting the family in adjusting to the resident's placement and separation
- Offering an overview of behavior management and restraint procedures, and, if requested, a copy of the restraint curricula
- Developing a visiting plan
- Providing updates and progress reports
- Assisting families in planning for the child’s return home or to another community setting.