Healing Hurting Families

Hurting the ones they love (namely, their families) is something many troubled teens can't help but do.  Especially defiant teens.  Our work in restoring healthy family relationships involves pointing out to students how their behavior hurts others, and what they can do to change and start contributing to the mutual growth, enrichment and support of their families.  In a recent family therapy group, one troubled teen girl here was able to break through some of the barriers that separate her emotionally from her parents, and express her appreciation and love toward them.  Later on, in checking in with her House about the experience, she was still glowing.  Her sponsor agreed the family group had gone exceedingly well, but noted, "You still need to learn to watch your words, especially what you say to your mother.  Your words can be very powerful and very hurtful."  The student admitted her resentment toward her mother and for the first time was eager to get help to resolve it.

We believe that when at-risk youth repair relationships with parents and siblings they will find happiness and success.  Helping our students make those repairs, and teaching them to value and strengthen their family relationships in the future, is one of the most gratifying things we do.