Counseling

Individual, group, and family counseling is offered to all students enrolled. These services are provided by our staff of clinical counselors, all of whom are licensed or certified by agencies of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Individual Counseling is individually problem oriented as outlined in the student's Individualized Service Plan. Counseling sessions are scheduled not less than once each week, and may be accelerated or intensified in crisis situations or when the potential for benefit is seen.

Group Counseling. Problem oriented group work takes place with students who have similar needs. Counseling is offered in six different areas where group participation helps students to learn from each other. Students may participate in one or more groups on the basis of needs as identified in the student's Individualized Service Plan. The six areas currently targeted are:

* Students with Problems in Substance Abuse
* Students with Problems in Anger Management
* Students who have Experienced Physical Abuse/Neglect
* Students who have Experienced Sexual Abuse
* Students who face Employment and the World of Work
* Students who are in Transition to the Community
Other areas for group counseling intervention are developed as indicated by student needs.

Family Counseling. Individual family counseling is offered to parents and families with the individual counseling offered to the student. Sessions can be held with the parents individually and/or with the student. Sometimes, with the permission of all parties, and because of the distances and circumstances involved, videotapes of individual sessions with the student are sent to the parent. A telephone discussion with the parent at their home and with the student and counselor at the school can help achieve greater understanding. Family sessions are also held in the student's home community. This is especially true when the student is preparing to return home.