Counseling

Each youth is assigned an individual counselor prior to arrival at the facility. Individual counseling is conducted once weekly, and counselors are available more often based on need and upon request.

Counseling sessions are driven by a Personal Program Plan that is developed by the youth and counselor within the first 21 days of residence. Elements of the Personal Program Plan include identified issues and corresponding treatment goals. Most youth also develop a “Relapse Prevention Plan.” Counselors act as a liaison between the youth, staff, parents, case workers, therapists, school officials and court officials. Counselors will also guide youth through Progress Review, Transition Release and Aftercare Planning.

Youth participate in monthly Family Counseling. Most youth, based upon assessment needs, participate in group counseling at least twice weekly. Group counseling includes Drug and Alcohol Group and Juvenile Sex Offender (JSO) Group.

Counseling services are supported through consultation with a psychologist, the MVJRC Mental Health Care Authority, and with a psychiatrist, pursuant to contract with Integrated Youth Services (IYS). Crisis counseling is also available 24 hours a day via IYS.