What does a Therapeutic Educational Consultant do?
by Tazim Salehani, MS, of 360 to 180
Have you ever felt lost when researching residential treatment programs for your loved one? In the world of the internet and evolution of therapeutic needs, it becomes imperative that not only your financial resources are being stretched the best way possible, but that the clinical needs are being met as well. Here are 5 ways that a Therapeutic Consultant can help with next steps:
FINDING THE RIGHT TYPE OF PROGRAM – From hospitals, residential programs, assessments centers, wilderness programs, as well as therapeutic and small boarding schools, it can be very difficult to understand the type of program that is best. It is important to find the right fit and therapist as not all programs are “one size fits all.”
STREAMLINING ADMISSION PROCESS – Once the programs are presented to you it is important to have a direct contact at the facility so that the family can interview, tour, and ask the questions necessary to pick the best option for their loved one. The Therapeutic Consultant will facilitate an introduction and debrief with you once you have had a chance to understand the programs differences.
TRANSPORT AND INTERVENTION – How will I get my loved one there? In some cases a transport or an intervention is needed to help you with the process. A Therapeutic Consultant can help identify those professionals and continue streamlining the process so it is a smooth transition from home to the selected program.
CONTINUITY OF CARE – What happens once your loved one has admitted into a program? It is important to make sure that the outpatient providers are in the loop of next steps as well as treatment planning. A Therapeutic Consultant can help facilitate introductions and initial calls with the program so that continuity of care continues. It is also important that Therapeutic Consultant works with the family to help them identify coaches and therapists that will be support them specifically. Why is this important? When it comes to success in treatment, it can only happen is each family member is connected to individual resources and is open to change.
DISCHARGE PLANNING – During the course of treatment there may be a need of another program (“next step” transition such as boarding school or transitional living program). A Therapeutic Consultant can help with identifying what those next steps are in collaboration with clinical recommendations from the program, as well as making sure your outpatient providers continue to receive updates accordingly.
The role of Therapeutic Consultant is ongoing and can change overtime as the therapeutic needs change over time. When it comes to investing in your adolescent or young adult’s life, you cannot afford to do this on your own. You need an objective guide who has your and your loved one in mind throughout the continuum of care. You need an ally, advocate, and professional resource navigator. That is what a Therapeutic Consultant does.
For questions or concerns contact TCA, or Hire a Therapeutic Consultant.
