Sundance Canyon Academy is a licensed, residential treatment program that utilizes a highly specialized, therapeutic approach in treating young men, ages 13-17 years old, whose lives are jeopardized by emotional and behavioral issues.
Our therapeutic and educational approach is unique and innovative in addressing common issues that face today’s young men: Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Executive Functioning, Family Discord, Social skills, Self-Esteem, and Academic or Developmental difficulties.
Our holistic model increases students’ recognition and resiliency by identifying and addressing factors that fuel anxiety and poor choices. We provide specific skills, tools and practices for lifestyles that promote opportunity, selfrespect and independence.
Unlike most treatment programs or schools, we DO NOT use a behavioral modification approach. Our goal is not to focus on the behaviors (rewards or consequence), but what causes those behaviors – their feelings or self-concept.
Empathy and attunement
are the most powerful agents of change. If your son feels that we understand him, and can actually feel what he is going through, then he may believe he is worth the effort we put forth in his behalf. This creates an experience that allows the relationship to be the agent of change.
We accept and teach our students
by active listening, reflection, empathy, permission to feel, and giving without return. Unconditional care, attunement, and validation go a long way for the internal development of our students.
Vulnerability
can dispel the cultural myth that it is weakness and argues that it is, in truth, our most accurate measure of courage. When students and families understand this and apply it, it can reduce time in treatment, significantly.
Therapy
Increases emotional aptitude through specific therapeutic approaches and considerations including; identity, communication, and commitment.
Service
Builds empathy by putting others before self.
Nutrition
Plays a key role in health and wellbeing and self-management.
Recreation
Provides opportunities for team building, competition, and acquiring new skills.
Education
Improves confidence and increases optimism through achieving academic needs and goals, thereby contributing to present and future successes. Learning becomes a ‘Life-long’ endeavor.
Life Skills
Furthers independence through the development of practical skills and passion. Competence and maturity enhances one’s ability to navigate life’s obstacles and promotes interpersonal relationships, negotiation, and community involvement.
AfterCare
Aids anticipation and appreciation for the ‘next steps’ and opportunities now and in the future.
All aspects of our program are designed specifically for the best outcomes and success of our students and their families. To provide that ‘environment of change’ parental participation is paramount. As these elements come together, students who would otherwise need two or three programs can move through their growth process – from treatment to transition back home or college – all at Sundance Canyon quickly, effective, and affordably.
Clinicians and staff ensure the disciplines of academics, therapy and experiential activities are dynamically integrated. Specifically, each young man receives weekly individual and family therapy, as well as daily specialized groups according to their individual needs and emphasizes the Relationship (REBT) and WHYTRY Models. Interventions include: Adolescent Male Development, Trauma Resolution, Anxiety and Depression, Information Processing Skills, Drug and Alcohol, Adoption and Attachment. Each student is also provided psychiatric services as needed.