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Where Do We Go From Here, and How Do We Get There? - Part One

9/20/2018

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As we are working in a more therapeutic environment we have to let go of all external control.  We can not use a "this for that" program and remain non-judgmental, non-punitive and still stay positive.  

We used the level system for so many years that the staff lost sight of the value of the evaluation at the end of the day, the opportunity to correct behavior, set new goals, and start fresh the next day.

The level system was designed as a way for a child to see how behaviors effected relationships, education, and personal growth.  It was the evaluation at the end of the day that helped them make more effective choices.

Now that we have no level system, the staff are afraid we have no way to encourage them to change behavior.  Our clients have difficult, and even dangerous behaviors - both to those around them and to themselves. Sexualized behaviors, verbal abuse, physical abuse, truancy, AWOL, house destruction, and then the less difficult behaviors such as yelling, screaming, and threatening. 

Counselors work on each little piece of the behavior.  For the most part, it took the clients 10 - 15 years to develop these behaviors, and the trauma that underlies their behaviors help them keep a wall between them and those who would like to help them.   

We begin by building a relationship - politeness, modeling, using teachable moments, remaining friendly even in adversity.  We also begin by taking time to do an inventory of placements, needs, wants, talents, people they want in their lives, etc.  We take that information and present it in a formal meeting with our staff, the placement social worker, any outside staff involved, parents, and the client.  We then work in 5 areas mandated for all California children in out-of-home-care.

Everyone, including the client, is aware of the program, what is expected of us, themselves, social workers, etc.  Our daily work begins.








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    Author

    "My name is Carla Atkinson and this is a blog for foster parents and group homes. We will discuss laws, new and old. We will share ideas and we together, we will work to make the lives of children a little better."

    Jim & Carla Atkinson have been married 54 years, raised more than 200 foster children and have 80 grandchildren (and more on the way!) Together they have six group homes and one large campus in California. 
    Carla Atkinson, the author, created this space to share highs and lows, and support others who love kids as much as we do. Please visit
    the Atkinson Family Services website for more information. 

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