What You Should Know

What should you be aware of when trying to find a school for your teen?

The biggest surprise to parents when looking for a program is the cost. Parents should be aware that these programs are completely privately funded and should plan on this costing between $3,000 to $6,000 a month. This is a shock because a lot of parents are looking for income based programs and state funded programs, but the state funded programs in most areas are Juvenile halls or part of the Job Corp. T heir child has to either be willing to participate or be in trouble with the law which in most cases is exactly what the parents are trying to prevent.

What are some of the pitfalls? (e.g. bad schools, pricy schools, bad kids, etc.)

A lot of parents confuse cost with quality. The most expensive school isn’t always the best school. What are you getting for that tuition? What is your child getting? Parents also will just call one school and just take what they say as truth. It is important to do your homework. It is important to tour if time allows. Meet the people that will be caring for your child. If you can’t come out, ask to talk to a director. Most admissions people are not located at the actual school. Ask to talk to someone who is and decide if you like that person and what they have to say about their program.

No one wants to be sued for telling you what they know about a program. So people will sidestep the issue on whether or not the other program you are looking into is bad or not. The problem is that even good schools get a bad rep because the sales person you are talking too is trying to close a sale and will put ideas in your head that may or may not be true. Call the state licensing agent to get an accurate picture.

What steps do the parents need to take to get their child placed?

There are three main hurdles that a parent must get through for placement. First, is deciding on a program and filling out the necessary forms. Second, is arranging financing. Third is deciding on transport or if you will be bringing your child to the program.

How does the child get to the school? does the pick-up service cost the parent more money?

Transport is a common decision made by parents to help get their child to the school. Most kids in this situation are not coming willingly so transport services alleviate the difficult process of getting your child to the actual program. It is not wise to lie to your child as this can make the trust issues go even deeper. Transport does cost more and is generally $2000 plus the cost of flights and travel. This price will range depending upon the proximity of the school and your home. This cost can be included in the loan price if necessary.

How does the parent pay for something this expensive?

Most parents use a behavioral health loan or a student loan depending upon the facility you choose. Other parents have used home equity loans or college funds set up for their children. When looking into the student loan process it is important to understand that a credit score of 650 or above is required and a debt to income ratio must be within normal limits to qualify. If it is not, here are some other things to consider.

• Will you need A co-signer?
• Do you have a family member who is willing to help?
• What programs in your local school district willing to pay for?
• Will your health insurance cover this cost?

To find this out, call your insurance carrier and ask about you Residential Treatment Center benefits. Over the years parents have gotten very creative in coming up with ways to find help. If your child is adopted, find out if your state offers and adoption assistance program.