FAMILY THERAPY The Family Therapy program at the Academy is designed to determine and address the resident's emotional impact on and from his/her family. Specific goals are developed by the resident's therapist and family therapists, in cooperation with the referring agency, and become a part of the resident's individual treatment plan. Trained members of the clinical staff provide a variety of interventions so as to accommodate as many families as possible. Additionally, therapists are available to assist in providing family therapy services at the Academy, and when possible and appropriate, in the home community. Family therapy and services are an integral part of the resident's overall treatment program. The therapist helps the family to understand the admission decision and any available options. If the family is involved and it is possible, a pre-admission visit can be arranged. If the child is under the guardianship of the Department of Social Services or Department of Corrections, they may also chose to make a pre-admission visit. Family therapy is utilized in creating emotional openness within the family, aiding parents in providing authority and supervision in the family, making decisions regarding home visitation, assisting the referring agency in determining aftercare planning, and helping the family develop some insight into their own family system.