Clinical Approach
PDFTreatment – not the development of hiking or survival skills – is the primary focus at SUWS of the Carolinas. Students progress through a sophisticated level system designed to assist them in mastering age-appropriate developmental goals.
Treatment is most successful when an individualized approach is employed. Therefore, each child's length of stay and therapeutic assignments are personalized to address individual needs. Parents, referring professionals, and SUWS therapists review progress, emotional issues, and length of stay during weekly treatment planning sessions.
Peer pressure is a powerful influence during adolescence. SUWS of the Carolinas uses this influence in a positive manner. Upon arrival, students join an existing group with an established positive peer culture in which leadership positions are earned through achievement, rather than posturing. Groups are supervised by a core treatment team comprised of a therapist and three counselors, and are overseen by the program's clinical director. With a student-to-staff ratio of 3 to 1, students receive the personal attention and care they need.
Groups are involved in ongoing expeditions that vary in length. While on the trail, students participate in outdoor activities and take part in daily group processing sessions, and staff / peer counseling. During intensive therapy or "layover," students participate in individual and group therapy sessions while completing program curricula and therapy assignments.