Fornits

General Interest => Open Free for All => Topic started by: Aether on September 05, 2011, 02:45:02 PM

Title: Introduction
Post by: Aether on September 05, 2011, 02:45:02 PM
Greetings,

I'm Ryan, and I'm from the San Francisco Bay Area; I recently joined this site because as a former attendee of both a wilderness program and therapeutic boarding school, this forum appealed to me. I have been browsing this website for a while, and I hope my perspective on the troubled teen industry can be both refreshing and helpful: I was always a pretty bright kid, but I stopped applying myself during the middle of my high school years due to my own personal issues; I wasn't in to anything sketchy, I was just isolating myself from other people because of my bouts of depression and lack of motivation towards improving my life.

I was escorted from my home June 6th, 2010, and spent two and a half months in Aspiro's Vantage Point group. Following my departure, I arrived at Boulder Creek Academy August 24th, 2010. I honestly must say that while both programs were frustrating at times, I got out what I put in; wilderness helped me re-discover the value in all things I held dear to me, and academically and program-wise, BCA was more beneficial than not. For one, because the school worked by terms versus semesters, I was able to recover credits and graduate from high school relatively on time; I left August 5th of this year, two days after my eighteenth birthday.

Although I had mixed feelings about the workshops (as I am aware of the history of CEDU and the initially cult-like religious connotations present in the ideas based on Kahlil Gibran's "The Prophet"), they were insightful and the Brother's Quest trip was seriously epic; I was able to not only able to get to know my program friends and staff on a deeper level, but to also make peace with myself. As an advocate for youth rights, I am for improving the programs in the troubled teen industry to protect children's freedoms, but I am not for closing them down altogether; for example, if BCA closed, that could risk kids being sent to harsher places. It is never a solution to justify an organization's existence on the premise that there are worse places, but I sincerely believe where I went was the best place to be given the circumstance that you were going to a therapeutic boarding school.

There are good and bad people everywhere, and in both places I went there were staff that legitimately cared about us children. There is always room for improvement in all aspects of life, boiling down to even such as places as this forum; I think at the end of the day we are all for the same goal, and that is to ensure that parents/legal guardians go about the correct way in getting help for their children while protecting their individual liberties. One recommendation I have after reading this forum and wiki is to be better organized, and use concise speech and grammar (certain Fornits Wiki pages have terrible sentence structure and language, and we are largely judged by how we as youth present ourselves)! I can see why some parents and employees of said organizations would be turned away from this site, as it is a haven for irrelevant postings, spam, and venomous hate speech, which we should all agree on to be contradictory to our goal of being a forum dedicated to open discussion.

I come to this website in good spirits, and I hope this message finds the Fornits community well. I am privileged and honored to have this chance of getting to know people who were in the same boat as I was. Namaste to all!
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Xelebes on September 06, 2011, 12:09:55 AM
Heyo, welcome.  I'd edit some but I don't have much information to contribute, knowing that the abuse I endured was not any of these private organisations.  I'm sure an admin would like another hand, especially when it comes to properly built sentences.
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Anonymous on September 06, 2011, 12:45:53 AM
Much thanks for the welcome; at which programs did you attend? I'm curious to hear your two cents worth of wherever you attended!
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Aether on September 06, 2011, 12:48:18 AM
EDIT: Sorry, I forgot to sign in before posting that comment (even though it's clear it's from me).
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Xelebes on September 06, 2011, 12:49:59 AM
I didn't really go to a program.  I just went to a public school with below spec time-out rooms and abusive procedures, while the principals used the administration above them to maintain a fight with my parents.  Edmonton has very few private schools in the metropolitan region, so there was not much options outside of public schools.  Thing have been changing - the principal at that school is no longer there, the superintendants have changed a few times and things sound like they are changing.
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Aether on September 06, 2011, 12:54:38 AM
I see; I regret that such abuses were just as easily able to fly under the radar at, of anywhere, public schools... what time frame/era was this? I extend my utmost sympathies.
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Xelebes on September 06, 2011, 12:57:26 AM
1992-1997

The junior high had better principal.  Worse children though.  *shiver*
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Aether on September 06, 2011, 01:07:56 AM
I could understand why things were harsher back then, even though that was only over a decade ago, I could see things being a little less "politically-correct"... exactly what labels were you stigmatized to "suffer" from?
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Xelebes on September 06, 2011, 09:46:01 AM
Quote from: "Aether"
I could understand why things were harsher back then, even though that was only over a decade ago, I could see things being a little less "politically-correct"... exactly what labels were you stigmatized to "suffer" from?

I have Asperger's and Tourette's.  So I had some problems in the classroom and the playground.  The Tourette's diagnosis was available, but a doctor didn't diagnose it, there was no Asperger's diagnosis available.
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Aether on September 06, 2011, 11:31:51 AM
Ah, I see... Yeah, I have been diagnosed with Asperger's and NLD (Non-Verbal Learning Difficulties). No walk in the park to have dealt with social anxiety and major issues with Algebra.
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Anonymous on October 25, 2011, 02:09:39 AM
Hi Ryan welcome to the group. Hope can heard some of your good insights about office furniture. Thanks :cheers:
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Ursus on October 26, 2011, 10:09:51 AM
Quote from: "Officefurniture159"
Hi Ryan welcome to the group. Hope can heard some of your good insights about office furniture. Thanks :cheers:
Ya mean... like about the HOT SEAT ??! . . .  :D
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: cmack on October 27, 2011, 03:39:49 AM
Hello, Ryan: May I ask you a question about Aspergers? According to this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asperger_syndrome (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asperger_syndrome) "The lack of demonstrated empathy is possibly the most dysfunctional aspect of Asperger syndrome." However, by reading your posts on this forum you seem to display a lot of empathy. In both your original post and in your responses you seemed to have concern not only in how you were perceived, but also for the feelings of others. May I ask what criteria was used to diagnose you and do you think it is an accurate diagnosis? I understand if this is too personal and you don't want to answer. I won't be offended. I just don't know much about Aspergers and am trying to understand better.
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Aether on October 27, 2011, 04:18:31 PM
No worries, that's a fair and valid question; quite simply put, I have a heart. I never let myself feed in to the energy drawn by the Asperger syndrome label. I was diagnosed with this particular "disorder" because of my social anxiety and depression while in program. Apparently when people aren't thrilled to be thousands of miles away from home, family, and friends often against their own accord, the system can justify without question to keep children too medicated to complain. My integrity prevents me from finding ways to exploit the label for my own gain. Much like homosexuality was removed from the list of mental disorders in the early 1970's, I I feel Asperger's should experience the same fate. The problem lies in that these diagnoses are created by the medical industry, which desires to categorize people who display behaviors and methods of learning contrary to what stands as the institutionalized norm. In other words, the autism spectrum is seen through the scope and lens of individuals who don't process information the same way. When authority figures attempt to look like they are trying to "understand" people with learning disorders, it comes off as patronizing and condescending. Whether or not Asperger's is real is irrelevant; we are just like anyone else. We have feelings, empathy, a sense of right and wrong, and the natural instinct to demonstrate benevolence towards others and to fight for what we believe in.
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: cmack on October 27, 2011, 05:43:41 PM
Quote from: "Aether"
I was diagnosed with this particular "disorder" because of my social anxiety and depression while in program. Apparently when people aren't thrilled to be thousands of miles away from home, family, and friends often against their own accord, the system can justify without question to keep children too medicated to complain. ... Whether or not Asperger's is real is irrelevant; we are just like anyone else. We have feelings, empathy, a sense of right and wrong, and the natural instinct to demonstrate benevolence towards others and to fight for what we believe in.

Wow, thanks for the response. I'm going to need more time to formulate an intelligent reply that doesn't come across as a mad rant. I hate it when people dump labels on kids. I don't know you and I'm not a psychologist so I don't know if it was the right diagnosis or not, but I admire you for not allowing other peoples' labels and diagnosis to define you. Stay strong.
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Anonymous on October 27, 2011, 07:26:17 PM
:twofinger:
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Aether on October 27, 2011, 07:31:25 PM
:feedtrolls:
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Anonymous on October 27, 2011, 08:53:43 PM
:suicide:                                                                        ::unhappy::
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Anonymous on November 03, 2011, 08:31:33 PM
Hi Ryan Welcome to the group :)
Title: Re: Introduction
Post by: Ursus on November 16, 2011, 01:48:18 PM
The front page to this forum has a nice lil intro... http://www.aspiesforfreedom.com (http://www.aspiesforfreedom.com)
Title: Boulder Creek Academy testimonies
Post by: Oscar on August 25, 2020, 04:37:09 AM
Quote from: Speeklif Rainchild testimony
https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/110971434965868828227?hl=da-DK&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiLrJD_9bXrAhXwBBAIHc1LC7wQvvQBegQIARAM (https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/110971434965868828227?hl=da-DK&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiLrJD_9bXrAhXwBBAIHc1LC7wQvvQBegQIARAM)
BCA appears to no longer be under the CEDU umbrella, but what is the treatment? Has it changed? what percentage of the children are being medicated, or institutionalized by the lead psychiatrist? What exactly are their "studies?"

I attended BCA in the mid 90's. I have My own private issues and traumas from this place, you can find many examples, It would take far to long to explain mine. Just know my issues mainly have to do with the doctor, and only partly have to do with the abuse and betrayal from their peer therapy. Instead of talking about me, I would like to address the parents considering BCA for their children with some tough love........

If you can afford to send your kids here, you are the problem. YOUR career and YOUR life are taking priority, leaving your children feeling isolated. Here are some questions to ask yourself; what percentage of the day do you spend time with your children? Or, are even in the same building as them? What do you do, or talk about, when you are with them?

You cannot expect to be a minor part of your child's day(life) and demand any compliance, that is unreasonable. (You paid the bills, bought the toys, but haven't earned their respect. And if you think you don't need to behave in a manner deserving your child's respect, you are a child yourself) When children feel isolated, they compensate with drug addiction, sex, anger, etc. anything to gain the acceptance of others, and form a pseudo-family. (some children use healthy outlets; needs to be said) The unhealthy habits successfully get your attention though, and that is the only time they they get any real "on demand" attention. Demanding immediate changes from your children, or expecting them to willingly abandon their social groups is ridiculous. These behaviors did not develop overnight, and you had ample time to correct there course. You now have to be patient, there are no miracle cures. It is going to be hard, and it will suck, but BCA, television, or nanny are not responsible for raising your kids, you are! GROW UP PARENTS!!!! LEAD BY EXAMPLE (and know, they don't know what your are like when they are not around. You have to show them your character, not expect them to believe you "because you say so".)

In conclusion; It is my opinion that their are people who can benefit from places like BCA, but they typically cannot afford it, nor do they have parents that are even willing to pretend to care. Your kids need YOU to provide structure, not strangers. If you have a few hundred grand to spend on BCA, just know you will be substituting money for parenting, and they will know it for as long as they live.

Quote from: brynn xx testimony
https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/111768101973591568673?hl=da-DK&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiLrJD_9bXrAhXwBBAIHc1LC7wQvvQBegQIARAW (https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/111768101973591568673?hl=da-DK&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiLrJD_9bXrAhXwBBAIHc1LC7wQvvQBegQIARAW)
if i could give negative stars i could. i never had trauma issues till i was sent here, a month after i got home i was diagnosed with PTSD.
i was emotionally abused by my "therapist"
she had complete control over me and took that to her advantage. the reviews below me explain better why BCA is the worst possible places to send your kid.
i was here june 2015- september 2016. i was actually going crazy. i attempted suicide twice, only one time was actually recognized though. i self harmed multiple times and was once told by my "therapist" it was for attention because my cuts weren't deep enough. i actually really wanted to die here. i tried to get help here, but my "therapist" was so rude and hurtful and tried to cover it up as "tough love" or "constructive criticism". she shamed me for my mistakes, big or small. she even manipulated me into thinking i need BCA and i even thought i needed her to get better. she was invasive and didn't respect my privacy at all. read my letters and made my parents go through allll my old texts and messages. she would only show support when i was doing good, and when i was upset or did something wrong she would give me the cold shoulder. i never felt comfortable around her but i was never allowed to change therapist (in fact they joked about it). im scared to say who my "therapist" was, but you know who you are & i hope you rot in hell.
in conclusion, DONT SEND YOUR KIDS HERE!!!!!!! PLEASE IF YOU LOVE YOUR KID, DONT FEED INTO THESE LIES. BCA DOES MORE HARM THAN GOOD!!!!!!!

Quote from: Billy Bowers testimony
https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/117983561470012324273?hl=da-DK&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiLrJD_9bXrAhXwBBAIHc1LC7wQvvQBegQIARA5 (https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/117983561470012324273?hl=da-DK&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiLrJD_9bXrAhXwBBAIHc1LC7wQvvQBegQIARA5)
for 3 år siden-
This place is the most horrible thing you can do for yourself and you child. Anyone that thinks otherwise is delusional. First and foremost, keep in mind this is a private, for-profit institution, their one and only concern is making money. They WILL take advantage of you in order to do so. Don't believe me? Think about how they real you in: "we're the professionals, let us handle it, we do this all the time." They take advantage of the fact that you are in a place of uncertainty and doubt about the health of your child and manipulate you to think you somehow NEED their help. Then they'll charge you over $110,000 a year to abuse, manipulate, and torture your child. These places use an extremely controversial technique called "behavior modification" where they assert power over the student and create a forced compliance and a sense of fear in the student if the don't do what they're being told. The students have no access to internet, scarce access to TV (less than 2 hours a week), and all communication (which is really limited to phone calls and letters) is monitored and censored accordingly. They will tell you it's to remove all "distractions" but it's really about control. With all control over the student's communication, they can create any reality they want the parent to see. This is dangerous. Parents not knowing what is actually happening to their child and believing whatever the program tells them is exactly how they are able to utilize such abusive tactics without being caught, They strip the student of all their power. With power over the student they create compliance with coercive power. This is widely taught in business management and leadership at the collegiate level. In order for someone's behavior to change they must be influenced, in order to be influenced, the influence must have some sort of power over them, these are: expert, referent, legitimate, reward, and coercive. BCA favors coercive power. They force students to do things by threatening them with an impending punishment. Staff members Jeff, Jeremy, and Lisa utilize coercion more than any other staff members. It should be noted that Adolf Hitler was also widely known to use coercive power to push his agenda. Additionally, the place is very run down and poorly maintained. The buildings are old and falling apart. Much of the fun activities they claim to offer, they don't actually do because of "under-staffing" or it's a tool they use for coercion. They work directly with an institution called Caribou Ridge Intervention (formerly Ascent) for when students "act-up" which psychically abused me and wouldn't let me eat for over 36 hours. They then denied that it happened at all and claimed I "refused to eat" something I have neither done nor had a history of doing. I recall VERY clearly screaming at them after 8 hours "I'm starving! I'm hungry! I need food!"
Their techniques are clearly manipulative, abusive, and immoral. I discovered that they are the textbook definition of immoral after taking a leadership class at a well known university and reading about power and influence in the textbook. Do not send your student to these "therapeutic" institutions. It is certain to cause permanent damage to their lives. Anyone here who claims that this place is helpful in any way is a fool. I'm still suffering from the negative impact of BCA over a year later. Don't make the same mistakes my parents did. They both regret their decision. I urge you to take my advice: Don't allow yourself (as parents) to be coerced and your children to be abused.


Quote from: Allyson Sutphin's testimony
https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/111500178657328364288?hl=da-DK&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiR2Yun-bXrAhX7isMKHbI2CdQQvvQBegQIARAl (https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/111500178657328364288?hl=da-DK&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiR2Yun-bXrAhX7isMKHbI2CdQQvvQBegQIARAl)
i spent 2 years and 3 months here. the therapist i had L.D was abusive. she told me that all of the self harm and eating disorder behaviors i had were "attention seeking" when in reality i wanted to die, or change myself because of all of the childhood abuse i endured. but, honestly, this place kept me safe, and the flex staff where so supportive. ive been to several RTCs since then for anorexia and PTSD stemming from sexual assault. if i had a child with the issues i had/ have, i would defiantly send them to a therapeutic boarding school. but not BCA