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Post by mom2jnk on Jul 11, 2016 21:14:27 GMT
Has anyone ever used the services of an Independent Educational Consultant to assist in locating alternative educational programs for their child? Our DS16 has struggled with adoption/attachment related issues, along with anxiety and depression for many years. After these issues became critical last semester, we made the tough decision to enroll him in a wilderness therapy program this summer. He is making tremendous progress, but he may need further treatment at a therapeutic school this fall. The choices are bewildering and the Internet is full of scary stories. One of our therapists recommended the services of an Educational Consultant, but, once again, I have no idea where to even begin. Anyone have any experience navigating this?
Please PM me if you have any advice, but don't want to post openly. I would appreciate any feedback or experiences you may want to share. Thank you! |
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Post by twinks on Jul 11, 2016 21:32:00 GMT
I have used an educational advocate/consultant. When my DD's professionals indicated that she needed a private, special education, residential school, I contacted the National Association for Private Special Educational Centers in Washington, DC and got a list of over 320 schools (so I totally understand the overwhelm). I then narrowed the search from there. I got NAPSEC from a school that was recommended to me.
My DD's doctor's office (Dr. Sam Goldstein) had an educational advocate/consultant that I used. However, when the recommendation came for my DD to attend a private, residential special education school, only one was recommended. That is why I did a lot of my own research. Funny, we ended up with the school that was recommended, but, I felt better knowing for myself. I did personally visit 3 schools before we applied and my DD had her interviews.
I do know of a couple of good therapeutic schools that you can research and then look at what associations they are affiliated with and go from there. These schools were recommended to me, but, my DD did not need a therapeutic school. One is FL Chamberlain in MA (my DD's doctor used to serve on the Board of Directors), Pathway School in PA, and another school (I don't have any recommendation or experience) is Provo Canyon School in UT. I think there is another good school in the Cedar City, Utah area (my friend has a grandson that attends there - I could get the name if you want)
Another avenue that you could ask about is, I am sure you are not the only parent in this position, so I would ask the director of the wilderness program you child is attending what schools have other parents used and found to be successful.
Good luck with this. It is hard and time consuming, but, so worth doing considerable research on.
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Post by mlynn on Jul 12, 2016 23:57:34 GMT
I would talk to someone at the summer program. Tell them that ds is doing so well and that you want to help him continue progressing. Ask for their recommendations for schools/programs as well as for consultants. They should be aware of like-minded programs and hopefully guide you to a very appropriate place.
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