Publications Elemental Truths, Lifehacker, Lifehacks, Faith Based Counseling, EZine
Education/Credentials BA, MA, DoCC
Past/Present Clients Education systems in WV, FL, and NC. Correctional institutions in FL. Mental Health institutions in Fl.Private school settings in TN. Commercial clients in TN. Numerous private clients.
Expert: Dr. Reg Adkins Date: 6/9/2008 Subject: Bipolar Disorder/Oppositional Defiant Disorder and residential placement
Question My 11 year old son has been diagnosed with ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Impulse Control Disorder and being Bipolar. His instances are very extreme- currently he is in a detention center resulting from a rash of incidences- first shoplifting (which resulted in probation) to assault on a teacher, destruction of public property (for his destruction of the courtroom during a hearing) . . . and I could go on. His instances of anger and defiance are so extreme, that it is resulting in his increased criminal behaviors. I feel that based on his mental health/behavioral issues, he would benefit from intensive inpatient placement following his incarceration. His behavior has caused him to miss so much school through suspensions and detentions, he is currently in 5th grade working at a 2nd grade level. He has been tested for learning disabilities and does not seem to display any. He is currently in a special education school that has measures for his behavioral issues- but even that staff has been tested to their limits by son. In researching his problems, I realized that earlier behaviors were indicators- but I didn't realize them. My son had the most horrendous temper tantrums- even as an infant where he would throw himself to the floor, flailing and rubbing his feet together so forcefully that they would bleed which would suggest intermittent explosive disorder.One of the sites I was researching When he was five, he set our house on fire. Probation was attempting to find a program for my son, but we are running into roadblocks because of his age. Most of the programs that probation offers are for 12 years or older- which he will not be for 6 months. Do you know any residential programs or therapies that may be available for my son?
Answer I can provide you with some information that may prove useful for you. The following is some data from Eckerd Youth Academy.
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Eckerd Academy is a licensed, accredited residential alternative school and outdoor therapeutic program that specializes in helping students discover innate natural strengths and achieve their maximum potential. We specialize in helping students who continue to struggle despite participating in other school or community-based counseling programs.
Campuses in Florida, Georgia and Tennessee
At Eckerd Academy’s three campuses, students learn how to communicate and solve problems effectively, to accept personal responsibility and to respect themselves and others. Our residential alternative schools also help students gain the self-esteem and competence needed to navigate the tough road from adolescence to adulthood. Our three campuses are:
Eckerd Academy at Deer Lodge, TN
Eckerd Academy of the Blue Ridge, GA
Eckerd Academy at Brooksville, FL
A Residential Alternative School for Troubled Teens With Emotional,
Academic and Behavior Problems
Our typical student profile includes boys and girls ages 10 – 17
(10 – 18 in Deer Lodge, TN) who are:
Spiraling out of control
Making poor peer relationship choices
Causing conflicts at home, in school or in their communities
Acting defiant or entitled
Having anger management problems
Experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD or oppositional defiant disorder
Emotional and Academic Growth
Students receive a treatment and academic plan tailored to their individual needs, which may include:
Individual counseling
Group counseling
Family counseling & workshops
Social skills training
Life skills training
Assessment driven academics
College prep & standardized testing prep
Aftercare and follow up
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The following is a website to explore Eckerd more fully.
