FAQs from Probation Officers
Q: How does your program help reintegrate children into their communities?
A: In our 40 years of serving Virginia and West Virginia youth, we have a strong track record in helping young men become successful members of their communities. To achieve this, we focus on reintegration to the community early in the treatment process with involvement of the placing agency, child, and parent(s). Parents are strongly encouraged to attend reintegration-focused activities, including parent support groups in their locality, parent days on our campus, and family counseling. Home visits, we believe, are the most important element in promoting successful reintegration. We help parents establish fair, age-appropriate rules and expectations, then learn how to hold their children accountable. Your assistance in encouraging family involvement and providing your expertise in developing transitional planning is essential.
Q: Is Timber Ridge School the right place for all at-risk boys?
A: No, we have several criteria that would exclude some boys from consideration. Mental retardation, particular psychiatric conditions, and safety concerns are primary exclusionary criteria.
Q: Do you offer short-term, family-driven programs that build on the strengths of child and family?
A: Yes. We are committed to reunifying the child with his family. Our Short Term Stabilization Program is specifically designed for family reunification. During the treatment process, we identify and enhance the strengths of the child and family. Depending on the child's needs at the time of discharge, in-community supports might be necessary to promote increased progress.
Q: Will TRS consider becoming a Medicaid facility?
A: While we have considered becoming a Medicaid facility numerous times, we have decided against it for now. The requirements and restrictions would so significantly alter the nature and substance of our programs that they would undermine many of our core strengths. Our community service programs and sports programs, for instance, would be prohibited – and we consider them pivotal to our boys' success.
Q: What does Timber Ridge School provide that in-community programs cannot?
A: Timber Ridge School provides 24/7 treatment continuity that cannot be replicated by in-community programs in terms of intensity, consistency, and sustainability. It is our belief, based on the education and the expertise of our staff, that children placed at TRS have needs so significant that in-community services cannot meet those needs.
Q: How am I informed of a placed student's progress?
A: We are committed to keeping you informed about your students. Following admission, you are welcome to contact the student by phone or arrange for a visit at any time. You can also request to speak to staff members. Serious incidents will be communicated to you immediately. Otherwise, every other week, the student's Case Coordinator will contact you by phone or email to provide an update. In addition, every month, we will send you a formal written progress report.
Q: How long will a child remain at TRS?
A: Length of stay is generally determined by three major issues: (a) the duration, magnitude and intensity of the presenting problems at the time of admission, (b) successful achievement of the goals identified as prerequisites to initiate discharge, and (c) the student's motivation for his treatment plan, as well as the particular program that the student enters (e.g., Short Term Stabilization, Goal Based Program, Developmental Transitional Program. We are focused on making the kinds of changes that lead to positive long-term outcomes, including moving our young men into permanent family arrangements. .
Q: Who is responsible for creating and making changes to the student's ISP?
A: Based on information provided in referral documents, gathered during the Preplacement Assessment, and included in any specific input provided by the Social Services agency, child, and parent figures, TRS takes responsibility for creating the Individual Service Plan. Changes to the plan can be made at any time with input from any of these participants and with shared agreement that the change(s) are in the best treatment interest of the child.
Q: How long does it take for a decision to be made regarding admission?
A: A final decision regarding admission will be accomplished within a two-week period. However, circumstances may allow and require an accelerated process of 48 to 72 hours.
Q: How do I get an application or more information about TRS?
A: Please see the Admissions section of our website to get our application and several releases required to initiate a referral. The rate sheet for TRS can be found in the Admissions section. It can also be found on the "Service Fee Directory" for Virginia CSA at www.csa.state.va.us. Feel free to call our Directors of Admissions, Jeff Phillips (877-877-3025 toll-free or 540-888-9521 direct) and Cindy Largent-Hill (877-877-3026 toll-free or 540-888-9522 direct).