How to select a therapeutic summer camp

Therapeutic summer camps provide highly structured programs for youth with special needs, behavior problems or mental health challenges. Therapeutic programs use the principles of adolescent mental health practices to address and correct problem behaviors. An Internet search for therapeutic camps can quickly overwhelm a worried parent. Choosing a therapeutic summer camp is an emotional process. Parents can make a well-informed choice if they have a plan.

Instructions

• 1

  Learn about the different types of therapeutic camps and decide the type of camp you prefer: therapeutic camps in regular camp settings, therapeutic wilderness camps, military camps, so-called "brat" camps or equestrian therapy camps. Therapeutic camps may be located in other states so decide how far away from home you are willing to send your child.

• 2

  Select a few camps that offer a treatment program that meets the needs of your child. Therapeutic camps may specialize in one or more types of behavioral or mental health problems. Read the information about the camp and make a list of notes and questions to ask. Pay close attention to descriptions of the treatment program, activities and staffing.

• 3

  Prepare a checklist for your initial contact with camp representatives. Use a checklist for each camp contact and make separate notes for review later. Often, camps have specific staff trained to talk to parents of potential campers.

• 4

  Contact the camp and ask about accreditation. Accreditation organizations include the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations, Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, Council on Accreditation Standards and the American Camping Association. Accreditation organizations have standards camps must meet to receive and maintain accreditation.

• 5

  Ask the camp representative about association membership. National associations include the National Association of Therapeutic Wilderness Camping or the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs. Check with the association to verify that the camp is in good standing. These associations have membership requirements and standards and provide training and technical assistance to members.

• 6

  Confirm that the camp has all required state and local licensing and inspections. Ask the representative for the names and telephone numbers of licensing agencies so you can verify the information. Ask about safety, emergency procedures and if there is a medical doctor on call.

• 7

  Ask the representative about the admissions criteria, how long the process takes and who will review your child's records and make the decision. Ask what documentation you need to provide, such as medical and mental health records, proof of insurance and identification documents.

• 8

  Ask the camp representative to describe the camp's treatment philosophy, the treatment program and activities, the goal of treatment and services provided to campers, such as counseling and health care and disciplinary practices. If your child takes medication, ask if provisions are made to store and dispense the medication. Ask about food services, facilities and transportation.

• 9

  Ask the camp representative about current staffing. Verify that staff are trained and credentialed for the provision of adolescent mental health services. Confirm that there is a psychologist or other clinician overseeing the program and supervising staff. Ask about the camp's camper-to-staff ratio.

• 10

  Ask the representative how much contact you are allowed with your child. Ask if you can you visit or call, if you your child can contact you whenever he likes. Ask about your child's privacy and other rights.

• 11

  Ask the camp representative what the total cost for summer camp is and if the cost is covered by health insurance. If the camp is out-of-state, ask who pays the cost of transportation. Ask if financial assistance or public funding is available or if the camp allows payment by installments. Ask the representative if a deposit is required.

• 12

  Contact the appropriate organizations to verify accreditation, membership and licensing. Check with the national and local Better Business Bureau for complaints. Review your checklist and notes and call to ask any questions you forgot or that require clarification.