Struggling Teen? What options do parents have?

By Stephen C. Schultz

"What can we do to intervene in the life of our struggling teen?"

I hear this comment regularly. The number of times I have had this conversation with a family just outside the emergency room of their local hospital is too high to count! Self-harm and suicide attempts are incredibly stressful for everyone involved. Often, these teens are struggling with drug use, running away, poor grades in school, or simply feeling disenfranchised with life in general. Deciding which therapeutic option is best for their child and family can be overwhelming.

With hundreds of therapeutic programs and services to choose from, parents often feel confused and uncertain about where to turn for help. Here is a good place to start.

Recognized as the foremost leader in Research-Informed Treatment, RedCliff Ascent is an Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare program that accepts students from across the globe. If sitting in a stuffy outpatient office hasn't worked well for your son or daughter, the fresh air, outdoor living, hiking, and therapy under a tree might just be the solution!

While it doesn't lessen the pain of dealing with a wayward son or daughter, it can be helpful to realize you are not alone. Be sure to check out the website here: www.redcliffascent.com

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The Young Boy and the Rattlesnake

By Stephen C. Schultz (Editors note: This is a story used in a Wilderness Treatment Program. Many come to this program having struggled with depression, anxiety and substance use.) Many years ago there was a young Native American who lived in the very land you are residing in. He decided to seek wisdom by journeying to the top of Indian Peak. As he approached the base of the mountain he came across a rattlesnake that slithered beside him. The snake coiled as if to strike and the young boy moved back quickly in fear of being struck by the snake’s deadly venom. At that instant the snake spoke to the boy saying, “Don’t be afraid of me, I mean you no harm. I come to you to ask a favor. I see that you are about to traverse to the top of Indian Peak and was hoping that you may be willing to place me in your satchel so that I don’t have to make the long journey alone.” The young boy surprised by the snake’s request quickly responded by turning down the offer, stating, ...

Holiday Insight: Finding Grace in Imperfect Relationships

By Stephen C. Schultz As we once again head into the Holiday Season, it is important to be aware of the impact of the holidays on those we love and care about. The holidays are often described as a time of joy, family, and celebration. But for many, they bring a quieter reality - one marked by stress, loneliness, or the resurfacing of painful memories. For some people, the holidays represent connection and renewal. For others, they stir up what has been lost, what never was, or what once hurt too much to recall. The very things that make the season feel special - music, smells, family gatherings - can also awaken deep emotional undercurrents, especially for those with a history of trauma. Why the Holidays Can Trigger Past Trauma Many people who have experienced trauma - especially early childhood or relational trauma - notice that this season brings unexpected emotional intensity. Science now confirms what survivors have long known: certain times of year can activate implicit ...

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By Stephen C. Schultz We have all heard the old saying, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and over again, expecting a different result." As I work with teens and families that struggle with a myriad of problems, the one thing that amazes me is the tendency for families to keep thinking and behaving in the same ways and expecting positive changes to take effect. How often do we hope to change our destination in life, but fail to change the route? Here is fun story with a great message! Autobiography in Five Short Chapters By Portia Nelson Chapter One I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk I fall in. I am lost...I am helpless It is not my fault. It takes forever to find a way out. Chapter Two I walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. ...

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