We believe that when working with children one has to be supportive and consistent in every situation. When working with a child that has been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, especially if a substance use disorder is involved, this is even more imperative. It may require special training, experience, and even an inherent disposition to be able to self-regulate.
A coordinated team effort is extremely helpful. Communication is critical between all team members so they are aware of specific areas each child is processing at the moment. They will understand their role and others in creating a support system of staff and peer groups to best encourage growth and self-regulation. Repetition, routine, and commitment are hallmarks of the Turning Winds program.
The “5 Pillars of Change” are the foundation for all services at Turning Winds. The staff of Turning Winds believes that treatment success is most likely to be achieved through a combination of therapeutic and educational approaches that together provide the best outcomes possible for each troubled teen treated.
Teens who embrace character as a foundational part of their lives experience reduced intensity and frequency of maladaptive behaviors, episodes of acting out, impulsive actions, destructive tendencies, as well as a reduction of inappropriate peer relationships. In addition to our Character Education Curriculum, each teen attending our residential treatment center also will learn and practice social skills including conflict resolution techniques, treating themselves and others with respect, and appropriate social interaction.
Teens in our therapeutic school environment learn decision-making skills by working to set and attain goals, relying on their own knowledge and skills along with the knowledge and skills of others to address initiatives and projects, and participating in daily therapeutic group sessions dealing with issue resolution.
Teens increase personal understanding by taking accountability for personal actions, planning and working toward personal goals, and recognizing personal successes. Students will ultimately gain insight into their previous behaviors and actions by nurturing a greater understanding of the impact of their actions. An important component in our character education is service. While attending, each teen will engage in the experience of participating in service activities where they will have the opportunity to give back to the community.
