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 ANASAZI recognizes the irreplaceable role that parents play in the lives of their children. For this reason, ANASAZI requires parental participation in their child's treatment. Their involvement directly affects their child's success during and after the program. During treatment we facilitate involvement through communication via letters. At every step of the process - from the parent's initial contact with ANASAZI until the final stage of aftercare - communication with the family is a major priority. Overview of Family Involvement:
After contacting ANASAZI, admissions staff will help you determine if ANASAZI can serve the needs of your child and the family. If you agree that ANASAZI is an appropriate place for the child, the admissions director will help you through every step of the admissions process. Step #2: Introductory Parent Workshop at the Beginning of the Program Parents attend a 12-hour workshop at the beginning of the program. The workshop consists of a parenting seminar and an introduction to the ANASAZI Experience. Questions and conversations with staff members during this week can begin the dialogue that will continue throughout the program. Step #3: Parenting Education ANASAZI uses the Arbinger Institute intervention training for parents. During the introductory workshop, parents familiarize themselves with materials and skills from the Arbinger model. These skills provide a foundation for parents to find practical solutions to help their child. Throughout the program, parents work with their therapist and use this model to deal with issues that may arise in therapy sessions or in letters from their children. Step #4: a. Communication with ANASAZI Staff while the Child is in the Program While the child is in the program, the therapist talks with the parents at least once a week. These conversations focus on the progress of the child, as well as any issues that may have arisen most recently. Consistent communication ensures that the treatment plan is relevant and useful for the parent and child. The therapist will also use these weekly talks to work with the parents creating an aftercare plan. b. Communication between Parents and Child Throughout the program, parents and children communicate through letters. Letters are a powerful form of communication while the student is in the wilderness. Students often cherish these letters as reminders of home. The letters offer hope as well as provide the vehicle for the students and parents to broach difficult issues. ANASAZI staff and therapists provide guidance to parents and students when writing letters about specific issues. Step #5: DawnStar Walking Parents attend a three-day celebration of their child's achievement at the conclusion of his or her wilderness experience. Students are empowered by having the opportunity to demonstrate their new wilderness skills by taking responsibility for their parents during the activities. Parents and children use this time to prepare for the teenager's transition to living either at home or at another placement facility. The therapist facilitates the transition for families in therapy sessions. ANASAZI staff is readily available to help the family with the process. Intervention Training for Parents Intervention Training for Parents is held every Saturday at ANASAZI. Parents may attend a course for no charge for the first year after their child graduates ($100 fee for replacement or new materials if necessary). To register for a class, please contact ANASAZI.
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