Why is it recommended that my child attend a wilderness program before Northwest Academy?
Students who arrive at Northwest Academy with a solid emotional foundation, awareness of goals, and a sense of responsibility, that a therapeutic wilderness program can provide, are better prepared to move quickly into new habits, achieve success and continue on to higher education.
Attending a wilderness program is not a requirement for enrollment, but it is highly recommended. Please contact our Admissions Counselors to discuss the right plan for your child. (877) 882.0980.
What kind of behavioral therapy will my child receive?
Your child will work with their own personal therapist. This therapist provides an in-depth initial assessment and remains actively and personally involved, providing on-going individual and family counseling and group therapy. Your child’s therapist is an important member of the faculty team that outlines and continues to monitor your teen’s plan for success through to graduation. You child will also work closely with our substance abuse counselor.
Will my child go to college?
Ninety-eight percent of Northwest Academy graduates are accepted to a four year college or university. We are very proud of that success. Ultimately, success in college, as in life endeavors, depends on the individual student’s commitment, and their family’s support in helping them reach their goals.
What kind of training does your staff have?
All of our staff are certified in First Aid/CPR and Crisis and Behavioral Intervention and have undergone rigorous background checks before being hired. Our teachers are state certified and our clinicians hold applicable licensure. On-going staff training and education continue to ensure the highest level of professional care for your child.
How do you handle emergencies?
We have a detailed emergency-response plan that is frequently reviewed. Northwest Academy staff regularly holds simulated evacuation exercises in conjunction with local emergency response teams. We maintain an excellent collaborative relationship with our community’s emergency services personnel. In case of medical emergencies, we have a registered nurse on campus during business hours and on-call after business hours. The nearest hospital is seven miles from campus.
Do you have any religious affiliation?
No. Northwest Academy is secular but we recognize and respect each student’s right to practice a religion of their choosing. We also understand the importance of a spiritual component in daily life. The practice of religious beliefs is on a voluntary basis. This right is never withheld as a disciplinary action.
What kind of clothing should I send with my child?
We will provide you with a list of clothing. Your child will be attired in the same functional clothing as all of the other students. This is done to eliminate the distraction that clothing and fashion typically present to an adolescent.
Can you accommodate special diets?
Yes. We provide vegetarian offerings at each meal and can accommodate most dietary requests. Our chef brings four-star restaurant experience and quality to the food served on campus. Sourcing seasonal and local foods when available, we offer meals that are balanced, varied and delicious.
How often can I visit my child?
You are invited to visit your student regularly on campus. Typically, a first visit occurs approximately six to eight weeks after enrollment. Visits are progressive beginning with on-campus visits for newly enrolled students and those in our beginning phases. As your child begins to move through the phases the opportunity exists for an off-campus visit and eventually an off-campus overnight visit.
