Therapeutic Approach
Every adolescent who receives treatment at Cove Forge participates in a treatment program that is tailored to his special needs. Residents participate in individual therapy at least once a week, group therapy four days a week, and family therapy at least twice a month, as well as a variety of workshops and educational courses. Residents also participate in experiential ropes therapy on our 16-station high and low ropes course twice a week.
Adjunct Therapies
Although Cove Forge primarily follows a therapeutic model based on choice theory and reality therapy, we also utilize a number of additional therapeutic models depending on our patients' needs. These therapies may include:
- The Eco-Systemic Model: A model that focuses not only on the individual in treatment but also the interdependence among the individual, his family members, and society.
- The Family Distress Model: A model developed to help families deal with disruptions in their lives and understand the role that problem-solving skills and social support play in returning the family to healthy functioning.
- Behavior Modification: A system that encourages consistent modeling of positive behaviors and consistent rewards for appropriate behaviors in order to bring about behavioral change.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A form of therapy that assumes that negative thinking patterns cause negative behaviors and emotions. Thus, treatment focuses on changing the patient's thought patterns in order to change his behavior and emotional state.
- Experiential Therapy: Through exercises and role-playing games on a ropes challenge course, patients identify their fears and concerns and learn to develop trust, leadership skills, and self-esteem – qualities that translate to real-life situations upon discharge from treatment.