How do we keep the public's attention on the corruption and maltreatment of our children?
How do we undo the brainwashing of those like Dr. Phil?
I don't believe that everyone is motivate by greed and power - but many rotten apples have spoiled the "industry".
This needs to stop being an INDUSTRY and realize it serves human beings, it needs to become ........?
In response to a previous thread - it all comes down to money! The good, the bad and the ugly - the fat cats (no insult intended to felines) all want to make money and drive their big fancy Lexasses.
I wondered what $450+ pd bought - it certainly was not the salaries they paid the people out in the field, nor for upkeep. They have turned what might have been a morally commendable goal to help others in need - to filling their greedy hands. Leaving others to pay for their immoral behavior with blood, sweat and tears.
Is it idealism that brings a (young) therapist to a program? What makes them stay once their eyes are open? I don't believe it is an innate desire for power and control. Is it that they are brainwashed and beaten down and feel impotent - that they take it out on the clients?
I am not a professional, just a parent, and I don't know what it would really take to make this work... but -
I have a dream of not just a good program but a great program. One run by licensed mental health professionals, families, communities, survivors - who believe they can make a positive and meaningful difference in the lives they touch.
The program would have to be 100% transparent to all, all the time, anytime.
It would be a leader on the cutting edge of mental health care, using evidence based practices, collaborative team building with all the stakeholders, clients, families and communities.
Serving all children and families in need, regardless of class.
Everyone involved would be highly and consistently trained and supported. There would be continual on-going training. All would be accountable for their actions, being role models and working towards creating that elusive therapeutic milieu.
The therapists (licsw, psy d, mhc)- would be involved every step pf the way. No once or twice a week bs. They would be an integral part of what was going on, they would be part of daily life, they would be involved in the nitty gritty, they would be there to support and encourage growth. They would be the front line.
The environment would foster cause and effect, accountability, and the means for growth. It would not be punitive but compassionate and supportive.
Demeaning & abusive behavior of any kind would be out, unnecessary hardships would be out. The consequences to actions would be appropriate for all, not just for the kids.
Family involvement is essential - without family work the child's growth would be in a vacuum, unrealistic, unsustainable and without meaning.
It rained very hard last night. I woke up thinking "if my kid was out in the wilderness in this rain, wind, mud, if he were wet and cold, hungry and afraid, depressed and angry - how by any means would this be therapeutic?
In the mean time, I was touched by a post (I think by a dad) talking about getting the therapeutic benefits by doing community service (ie Habitats for Humanity) or hiking with your kid on a family vacation. Yeah!