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How to Pick the Right RTF for your Child

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Tips on How to Select the Right Residential Treatment Facility RTF for Your Child Choosing the right RTF for your child can be overwhelming to say the least We asked a group of parents who have been where you are what they wish they knew at the very begining These are their tips on how to get started and what factors you should consider in your choice Above and beyond any tip YOU KNOW YOUR CHILD AND WHAT WORKS AND DOES NOT TRUST YOUR GUT AND ADVOCATE FOR THEM Need support Reach out to one of our Family Support Partners at https www paparentandfamilyalliance org be supported We are here to help you You are not alone in feeling guilty every parent does Remember that you are doing the most selfless thing you can by seeking the help that your child needs it takes a lot of love to admit that your child needs intensive help It will sometimes feel like a fight to get your child the services they need Do not be afraid to advocate for your child and push back on what the insurance company and even the RTF says Ask your child s therapist to call and speak with the facility This may feel like a battle and it might make you feel like what you are doing isn t right ignore these feelings and trust your gut Check out the RTF you are planning on sending your child to Google them and look for reviews on Facebook or other social media platforms Some places have better reputations than others and may be better suited for your child Make sure your child understands this is not a punishment A lot of people sometimes even providers misunderstand Pennsylvania s consent law Make sure you understand that even if your child is over 14 they CANNOT refuse an RTF see consent document You know your child You understand what has worked and what has not Speak up for them and don t be afraid to let people know your concerns opinions and thoughts You know what will set your child off Be open about their triggers and tell the RTF what situations may trigger your child and should be avoided Check into their policy regarding restraints Make sure this policy is a match for your child and what triggers them Take a look at the contact and visitation policy of the RTF Make sure that their visitation schedule is doable for you Ask the RTF if they are able to be flexible and can work with you to fit your needs Look at their policy on rewards Make sure that it is the right fit for your child Some places use food some money some time doing things they enjoy If it doesn t work for you and your child don t be afraid to suggest a modification to something you are comfortable with

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Tips on How to Select the Right Residential Treatment Facility RTF for Your Child Choosing the right RTF for your child can be overwhelming to say the least We asked a group of parents who have been where you are what they wish they knew at the very begining These are their tips on how to get started and what factors you should consider in your choice Above and beyond any tip YOU KNOW YOUR CHILD AND WHAT WORKS AND DOES NOT TRUST YOUR GUT AND ADVOCATE FOR THEM Need support Reach out to one of our Family Support Partners at https www paparentandfamilyalliance org be supported We are here to help you You are not alone in feeling guilty every parent does Remember that you are doing the most selfless thing you can by seeking the help that your child needs it takes a lot of love to admit that your child needs intensive help It will sometimes feel like a fight to get your child the services they need Do not be afraid to advocate for your child and push back on what the insurance company and even the RTF says Ask your child s therapist to call and speak with the facility This may feel like a battle and it might make you feel like what you are doing isn t right ignore these feelings and trust your gut Check out the RTF you are planning on sending your child to Google them and look for reviews on Facebook or other social media platforms Some places have better reputations than others and may be better suited for your child Make sure your child understands this is not a punishment A lot of people sometimes even providers misunderstand Pennsylvania s consent law Make sure you understand that even if your child is over 14 they CANNOT refuse an RTF see consent document You know your child You understand what has worked and what has not Speak up for them and don t be afraid to let people know your concerns opinions and thoughts You know what will set your child off Be open about their triggers and tell the RTF what situations may trigger your child and should be avoided Check into their policy regarding restraints Make sure this policy is a match for your child and what triggers them Take a look at the contact and visitation policy of the RTF Make sure that their visitation schedule is doable for you Ask the RTF if they are able to be flexible and can work with you to fit your needs Look at their policy on rewards Make sure that it is the right fit for your child Some places use food some money some time doing things they enjoy If it doesn t work for you and your child don t be afraid to suggest a modification to something you are comfortable with