Family Involvement in Residential Treatment
Partnering with parents and caregivers for lasting change
We actively involve families and caregivers in treatment, believing that strong, healthy relationships at home are key to each teen’s long-term success.
Why Family Connections Matter
Healing relationships alongside individual treatment
Residential treatment can be a turning point for a teen, but lasting change usually requires family support. At Norman C. Sleezer Youth Home, we view families and caregivers as essential partners rather than observers on the sidelines. We encourage involvement even when distance, schedules, or past conflicts make connections difficult. By repairing communication, building trust, and aligning expectations, we help families create a home environment that supports the youth’s progress and safety.
Family Therapy, Communication, and Support
Creating space for honest conversations and practical tools
Our therapists facilitate regular family therapy sessions when it is safe and appropriate, either in person or through phone and video conferencing. These sessions help families talk about what led to placement, how trauma and stress have affected everyone, and what changes are needed moving forward. We focus on improving communication, setting healthy boundaries, and practicing skills like problem-solving and conflict resolution together. Families are also encouraged to participate in treatment planning meetings and school meetings so they feel informed and included.
Visits, Contact, and Staying Connected
Keeping relationships active during residential car
We work with families to arrange visits that are positive and therapeutic, often scheduled on weekends or other agreed-upon times. Phone calls and virtual visits are coordinated for those who live farther away or cannot visit frequently, so teens can maintain contact with supportive adults. Staff prepare youth and families for visits, help set expectations, and debrief afterward when needed to reinforce progress and address concerns. During aftercare, our team remains a resource, offering guidance and referrals as families adjust to living together again.
Here, healing isn’t just talked about in therapy—it’s practiced in every conversation, every routine, every small win.
FAQS
Meet Michael
Frequently Asked Questions
Family involvement in your teen’s treatment
How involved can I be in my child’s treatment?
We encourage families to be as involved as possible within the boundaries of safety and court or agency requirements. This often includes participating in family therapy, attending treatment planning meetings, and staying in regular communication with the treatment team. The more we can work together, the better prepared everyone will be for the youth’s transition home or to another setting.
Can I visit my child at Sleezer Youth Home?
Yes, visits are encouraged and usually scheduled in advance with staff to ensure they are supportive and well-planned. We’ll talk with you about guidelines, frequency, and any specific needs or restrictions related to your child’s case. Our goal is to make visits meaningful and safe for both the youth and the family.
What if I live far away or have limited transportation?
We understand that distance and logistics can make in-person visits difficult. In those situations, we work to facilitate phone calls, video sessions, and virtual family therapy whenever possible. Staying connected in any form is important, and we will problem-solve with you to find ways to maintain regular contact.
Will I receive updates about my child’s progress?
Yes, families typically receive regular updates from therapists, service coordinator, or other designated staff, depending on the case plan and confidentiality guidelines. You can expect to hear about treatment progress, school performance, and major events or changes. We also invite you to share your observations and concerns so that treatment stays aligned with what is happening at home.
Do you offer support for parents and caregivers themselves?
While our primary focus is on the youth, we recognize that caregivers also need support, information, and resources. Through therapy, meetings, and aftercare contact, we offer guidance on topics like understanding trauma, managing behavior at home, and connecting with local services. When appropriate, we can refer families to community-based supports such as counseling, support groups, or parenting programs.