Programs

Special Programs

The Challenge by Choice ropes course encourages emotional, physical and intellectual growth. The course is a three-phase program of outdoor group activities using a series of elements including ropes, cables and logs that create various obstacles or “challenges.” The individual’s right not to participate is always respected, thus creating the “choice.” The activities are not competitions. They are opportunities to develop communication, leadership and problem-solving skills. Individuals are challenged to go beyond their perceived limitations and to take safe risks as the group supports them. Challenge by Choice builds on relationships that develop team spirit and cooperation.

The Substance Abuse Track is an integral part of treatment at Willow Springs Center. All patients receive substance abuse education. Those with a dual diagnosis also attend individualized treatment programs and support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).

Therapeutic Program

The Center provides intensive and comprehensive clinical treatment, including individual therapy, play therapy (children’s program), family therapy, group therapy, recreational therapy and behavior management. The approach fosters positive peer interactions as patients work together to assist each other in reaching their goals.

Individual therapy occurs weekly with the assigned therapist to help patients identify their strengths, address their issues and successfully reach their goals.

Family therapy also occurs weekly, either on site (at least once a month) or by phone if the family lives in a distant location. Family involvement is considered to be essential to treatment, focusing on building better communication skills with emphasis on developing respectful boundaries and increasing understanding among all family members. In addition, families are encouraged to attend therapy at home while their child is receiving treatment at Willow Springs Center.

There are two types of group therapy at Willow Springs Center. In daily large-group therapy, patients develop coping techniques and learn how to cooperate with others. In smaller group therapy, patients meet three times a week with their assigned therapist and the other patients on that therapist’s caseload to focus on issues and challenges common to each developmental stage.