Help for difficult teen

[Anonymous]

I am the PP with the son that did anger management therapy. He wasn't in therapy for years.

We were able to get him to commit to the 10 sessions because it was a defined period of time. He was reluctant at first (even with the promise, not threat, that he would be sent to the relative or boarding school) because he felt he would be forced to go for an endless period of time. It seemed easier to get him to commit because he knew we wouldn't expect him to go for years.

The therapist was great, connected with my son and my DS made amazing progress. I wish I had done it years ago before things got so bad.

[Anonymous]

Many teens refuse to speak to professional therapists for one, two, three, ten sessions. That is part of resistance. A qualified therapist can deal with that.

Yes, you need to take away privileges. TV, cell phone, computer, Ipad, stereo, whatever. Make him go.

[Anonymous]

First of all, I want to give you a bunch of hugs because I think you're doing a great job under very difficult circumstances. I know this isn't easy. I agree that the right therapist knows how to deal with kids who refuse to talk. I like the idea of having someone come to the house - the 'natural' environment of the teen. I agree with your DH that tasty meals and a comfy bed are 'priveleges' and should be earned. But, I don't think you should be taking them away (ie giving him bread/water and a blanket on the floor) until you've met with a counselor and come up with a treatment plan. It might be difficult not to do 'something' until then but you've got a serious case and I think rather than to continue to do something that's ineffective, you wait until you have a plan. Your DS can make the choice - counseling or boarding school. Best of luck to you and please let us know how it goes.

[Anonymous]

National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs
www.natsap.org

They also can help you with a transport service.

I know you're not at this point yet but it might be a good start to request a catalog and start reading about some options. It might also do your son good to see the catalog sitting on your desk (but please don't use it as a threat.)

Hang in there.

[Anonymous]

OP, do you think your child could have ODD? Oppositional Defiant Disorder?