We have a long tradition of family involvement and believe strongly in working with families as partners in treatment. To us, success depends on a solid working relationship and mutual support between parents and Castle. The connections among Castle parents through their participation have also been a huge source of mutual support and help. Families are therefore involved in many ways:

Family Therapy - For each child entering the program, a family therapist is designated. The frequency of meetings is mutually negotiated, but averages about once every other week. Evening appointments on some nights are available to accommodate working families when necessary.

Family Activity Day - Once a month on Sundays, students, their parents, and their siblings get together for a group outing that parents and staff have planned. This is a way for families to get to know each other, get support in an activity setting and work together in widening the horizons of their children. The students get to see the adults as a united team, as supports to each other and as good sports in trying new things.

Parent Support Group - This twice-monthly meeting led by clinical staff allows parents a place separate from their children to share their concerns with people who understand what they are going through. Each month one of these meetings is followed by an informal parent-student potluck dinner.

Conferences - Planning conferences for each student are held quarterly, with an additional one at six weeks. Every attempt is made to bring all the parties involved in treatment to the table - parents, Castle staff, outside therapist, school liaison, and other outside professionals. This is a real opportunity for the child's team to share impressions and work together toward a consistent plan all can support.

Parent-Teacher Meeting - Each September and July, parent-teacher meetings are held to introduce the academic program, the year's course offerings, and the Castle teachers. It is also an opportunity for questions about the program. Individual parent-teacher conferences may also take place upon request in addition to the quarterly child conferences.