The therapeutic philosophy is a powerful mechanism in creating a more positive sense of self-worth. The combination of counseling and the program structure is designed to help every Ranch student build a more effective and healthy lifestyle. Research has shown that group therapy is the most effective type of therapy, and it creates more change than any other form of therapy used in treating adolescents. Therefore, emphasis is placed on the frequency of the group therapy at Aspen Ranch. These group sessions are generally 75-90 minutes long.
Residents meet in groups at least four times per week.
The primary purpose of group work is to provide a forum for residents to support each other in pro-social behaviors, to confront maladaptive behavior patterns, and to mobilize the power of the peer group in a productive manner. Peers are expected to both give and receive feedback from the other team members. Please recognize that many adolescents in treatment are there because they are master-manipulators. The primary therapist will often restrict interactions with the resident's demands for attention to a specific time and place for several reasons. The resident may seek to get out of a scheduled activity or chore.