Ex CEDU(?) Student Speaks Out at Struggling Teens

[Deborah]

Check out the discussion happening at Struggling teens.

http://www.strugglingteens.com/cgi-bin/ ... 2;t=000827

Some comments from an ex-student, with the typical replies. Sounds like she was in a CEDU program.

Kelly,
Just a heads up, but speaking from experience as a former student, I never would have told my mom about any concerns I had regarding my program. There was too great a chance of my "concerns" getting back to the staff. And speaking for myself, the "consequences" just weren't worth the trouble and effort. The program would just explain off the "concerns" as manipulation, etc. One sign to look out for though is what we call the "Stepford Syndrome". If you go on a site visit and things seem to be too good, too programmed, that is an immediate red flag. How far away from the program are you? Have you ever thought about showing up at the school unannounced? Its a good way to see the school in action. That way you know that there will be no "staged" arenas for your viewing. Just a few of my thoughts. Hope it helps.
p.s. I'm now in my thirties, well over ten years removed from my program, and the experience still comes up in my weekly therapy sessions.
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My program's version of therapy was called Raps. I use the term "therapy" very loosly. I can't speak for how raps are run now, but back in the 90's Raps were basically yelling matches. I learned a nifty little trick (disassociation) early on because I found the entire experience far too upsetting. So for me, Raps were completely ineffective since I really wasn't "there" most of the time. My placement was completly wrong. I didn't (and still don't) respond well to highly confrontational situations. My therapist today is caring and understanding. She doesnt expert me to fit a mold as my program did. Therapy is not one size fits all and neither should a child's treatment be. I'm glad to post my experience on this board but you should be aware that I'm not "programmed" and you may not like what I have to say.
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Debbie,
Thanks for your well wishes. Unfortunately this board does not allow me, or anyone, to post whatever we want. It is a highly censored board with only supportive posts allowed. Just two weeks ago I posted a link to an outside website that was "removed" from the board by Jena. She did send a nice little email explaining her actions. So parents, if you think you are getting the entire perspective on this board, you are highly mistaken.
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Debbie,
I have no interest in taking away your parental rights. I do have an interest in seeing that children are afforded rights under the same laws that give you those rights. We give even the most horrendous of criminals due process. Why are children in our society not given that same protection.
My other concern is that so many of the children that are admitted to these programs actually need care beyond what that program can offer. Not once while I was attending my program did I have a session with a licensed mental health professional. Someone who would have been able to diagnose and address my psychiatric needs. How many other children are falling through the cracks?
My e-mail address should be part of my profile. Please feel free to contact me privately if you would like. You can also send me private messages on this board.
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[Deborah]

Has anyone read this book or know where it is available? Or why the link to her website no longer exists. http://www.aahorror.net/FAQ.htm#teens

She posed some hard questions to Lon in this thread.
Are you volunteering this work, or is this site paid for by the schools that you evaluate as safe? What is your criteria for evaluation? I did ask Alexia Parks about the Theraputic Boarding Schools, and she said its important that a school allow an open line of uncensored communication between parents and child from the time the child is admitted to the school forward. Is this true of the schools you recommmend on this site?

http://www.strugglingteens.com/cgi-bin/ ... 000915;p=1

My name is Rebecca Fransway; thought I gave all the info as to who I am when I registered to post here.

I am the author of 12-STEP HORROR STORIES. While gathering stories for my book, several young people contacted me with stories about these hideous schools. Some of the schools, apparently, are supposed to be addiction treatment centers as well. The most poignant story in my book is from a young man who was in one of these schools.

I realize you are all parents trying to do the best for your kids. But it you put them in a school that cuts off communication and visits between you and your child, you really don't know what's going on there, and incredible damage is being done to your child. I have had unruly teenagers; I know what you are going through. And I'm here to tell you that you don't need to send your kids to those schools.
Best, Rebecca