You should also expect to go to counseling for yourself. You are going to need to think creatively, have stress relief, and be firm in your boundaries. Even if your family system is relatively healthy, this takes a lot of support.

Probably depends on how your DS feels about participating. If he goes in wanting to change, it can do wonders. If he just goes through the motions, probably a waste of money.

Well, if there's an underlying issue - anxiety or depression or mood disorder, it's best to get that under control with medication if needed and then work on the other stuff - eg coping skills.

My 14-year-old son has stolen money from us and engaged in some other risky behaviors. I've been gathering names of counselors and have called a couple -- no appointments yet, but we will definitely give it a try. What can I realistically expect?