Nalex,
As for the follow-up support, it is optional. We get separate calls at home. The therapist calls our son on his cell phone and he can choose if or when he wants to answer it (his choice, sometimes he takes the call, other times he doesn't). He knows that he can call them anytime. I can understand why some who graduate would want nothing more to do with the school.
For our son, being an inpatient in the rehab facility was the most traumatic thing. He actually speaks fondly of ASR and wilderness. Perhaps it will take time for the whole experience to sink in. Everyone's experience is different. It is unfortunate that there is very little out there to help teens (and parents) before it gets to the point where the only option left is wc, RTC or TBS. Losing your son or daughter for a year is painful for parents as well. The decision is after all else fails. Our son was not abused and felt cared for and safe at ASR. He is back home, catching up and credits ASR for helping him overcome or deal with his issues.
What is important is that there are some decent programs out there . None of them are perfect, but many are trying to improve.
Nalex, thanks for your insight. You have been able to provide a first-hand perspective. I hope all is going well for you. Unfortunatey, not knowing what would have happened if you hadn't gone to a program, whether you would have been better or worse is something the whole industry needs to look at.