Skip to main content

International Boarding School...It's all about relationships!

By Stephen C. Schultz


When teenagers start to struggle, the first thing to suffer is their relationships with parents, teachers, church leaders, and other responsible adults in their lives. They often push away the very people who care about them the most.

During this time, teens may gravitate toward "friends" who they believe truly "understand" them. They frequently seek comfort, attention, entertainment, and excitement from peers who validate their attitudes and behaviors, even when those behaviors are unhealthy. This can lead to "groupthink" and a false sense of emotional security, especially when they spend time exclusively with like-minded individuals.


Regardless of country or culture, healthy relationships are essential for fulfillment and a strong sense of self-worth. At Oxbow Academy, we specialize in helping students and families rebuild these critical relationships, particularly when problematic sexual behavior (PSB) has disrupted trust and stability. Our therapeutic approach focuses on accountability, emotional regulation, and fostering positive, supportive connections.

For international students, the need for a structured, understanding environment like Oxbow Academy is even more critical. Being far from home can intensify feelings of isolation, cultural disconnection, and emotional distress, especially when coping with PSB. Oxbow Academy provides a safe, inclusive space where students from diverse backgrounds can receive specialized support tailored to their unique cultural and personal experiences. Our dedicated team helps international students navigate not only the challenges of PSB but also the complexities of adjusting to a new environment, building healthy relationships, and developing a strong sense of identity and belonging.

Explore the site to learn more about how Oxbow Academy helps teens and families, both locally and internationally, navigate challenges and restore healthy relationships.



Comments

nate said…
Awesome! I loved the video :D Definitely looks like a great part of the program. It seems to me that self esteem, participation, fun etc. are all elements of this program - And elements we all need to be healthy. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks nate! I appreciate your feedback and kind words! You're right, there are many aspects to creating a healthy relationship whether it be with family, friends or teachers!

Popular posts from this blog

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 ...

Navigating the Labyrinth of Care: Why Oxbow Academy Fights for Every Student

By Stephen C. Schultz Oxbow Academy recognizes that the students who enter its doors—whether from across the country or around the world—often represent unique and highly complex clinical cases. Because of the Academy’s specialized treatment focus, families, state agencies, school districts and managed care organizations frequently go beyond standard protocols to ensure students struggling with Problematic Sexual Behavior (PSB) can access the care they need. Many of these students fall outside traditional treatment norms, which is why a large number are supported through single-case agreements with Oxbow. The families we partner with often face overwhelming circumstances, with students at significant risk of ongoing harm—both to themselves and others. For this reason, Oxbow Academy remains unwavering in its belief that these students are worth fighting for. The Invaluable Impact of the Evaluation Process Even a short-term stay (typically 60–90 days) at Oxbow Academy for evaluation c...