Troubled teens can disrupt the life of a whole family. Their behavioural problems can throw parents and siblings into turmoil, too. The good news is that help is available. At Venture Academy, with positive reinforcement, we praise good behaviour to redirect teens. We’re able to help troubled teens make big changes in their lives.
When to Seek Help
No one wants to be the parent who overreacts. Many of us experimented with alcohol and drugs as teens ourselves. But there are generally clear signs when someone has crossed the line. Problems can start when the use of a substance or device begins to interfere with other aspects of life. So, for example, if your teen’s behaviour is affecting his or her friendships, sleep patterns, or grades, it may be time to get help. Similarly, if your teen needs drugs or alcohol to socialise, that’s also a negative sign.
Our 30-day treatment programs can seem like a big bridge to cross. However, early intervention gets better results than waiting. Many people still believe that someone must “hit bottom” before they will change. The sad truth is that, for many troubled people, the bottom can be death. When families step in to offer help and demand accountability, that can have a really big impact. We strongly believe in early intervention at Venture Academy. Why let your child keep traveling down a bad road when there’s an alternative?
Praise Good Behaviour: The Behavioural Approach
There are lots of ways to treat troubled teens. At Venture Academy, we use the behavioural approach. Behavioural treatment makes expectations clear for young people in the program. It provides structure and clarity in their lives. Many factors make it hard for teens to make good decisions. By offering lots of support, positive reinforcement, and making expectations clear, Venture Academy puts teens back on the right track.
Behavioural treatment involves scheduling a variety of activities throughout the day. Teens at Venture Academy will spend part of their day in therapy, part in the classroom, and part doing physical activity. As with most treatment programs, we encourage participants to do things like set daily goals and make their beds each day. Adding these elements of structure is like putting scaffolding around your teen’s life. It makes it easier for them to rebuild a healthier, happier life.
Positive Reinforcement Works
Venture Academy offers teen behavioural treatment in a residential setting. Many families are concerned about sending their children away. At Venture Academy, we know it’s important to help break the cycle of bad habits. A little distance from old buddies and old scoring spots goes a long way, especially in the early stages of treatment. Residential teen behavioural treatment makes it possible for your child to start over with a fresh slate.
Residential treatment also has the advantage of being immersive. At home, teens may be able to see a therapist once a week. Some may have access to options like 12-step therapies. But this is no match for the atmosphere at a residential treatment center. The focus is on recovery and building a pathway to a better life. Residential treatment also means that well-trained staff is on hand. They can monitor vital signs and help teens through detox if that’s an issue when they arrive.
At Venture Academy, We Praise Good Behaviour
Venture Academy has two locations across Canada, operating centres in Red Deer, Alberta and Barrie, Ontario. Our clients come from all across the country. For example, we’ve helped families from Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Saskatchewan, in addition to families who are located close to our facilities.
If your child is showing signs of trouble, don’t wait. We are always admitting new clients on a rolling basis. We know how frustrating it is to see a promising young teen losing ground. We want to help your child get back on track as soon as possible. Our rehab program has delivered great results for families and children just like yours. Give us a call at 866.762.2211 today.