Elk River Treatment Program (ERTP) is an 8-week therapeutic intervention program for troubled teens ages 12-18. The program provides diagnostic, assessment, education and treatment services on our base campus with a clinically supported, and challenging off-campus expedition.

The best way to cross a creek is to arrange stones in order allowing you to step from one to the next until you can safely cross. The Elk River Treatment Program is composed of four phases representing each stage of progress. Experienced, caring professionals challenge and guide students through the program phases while encouraging teamwork and individual skill development on a path to self-discovery.

Orientation/Introspection Phase

The Introspection Phase begins with an introduction to the rules and expectations of ERTP. This is an adjustment period as students become accustomed to the new outdoor settings. Students receive a complete medical, psychological and academic evaluation. Students are assigned to a Challenge Group led by a Treatment Team including a director, trained counselors and a clinician.

Parents and professional referral sources receive weekly updates on the progress of the student.

The introspection phase focuses on self-awareness and self-control. Students begin individual and group therapy sessions, work projects and physical training.  They are encouraged to identify poor behaviors and begin to claim ownership rather than excusing their actions or blaming others. Students begin to develop communication skills and learn the meaning of personal responsibility, accountability and teamwork. Students are given alternative, more effective tools to deal with their behaviors and are encouraged to use them while working with their Treatment Team on a plan for success.

Wisdom Phase

The Wisdom Phase focuses on establishing relationships, developing communication skills and setting and fulfilling goals. Students continue individual and group therapy sessions, work projects and physical training. During this phase students attend school Monday-Friday (See Elk River Academics), learn outdoor survival techniques and begin a "Discovery Journal."

During the Wisdom phase, students begin to "own their behaviors" and stop blaming others for their destructive attitudes and actions. Students are mentally and physically healthier, more focused and confident. At the end of a highly structured day, a "rap up session" reinforces the learning and skill development that has occurred. This is a period of challenge, discovery and understanding.

Courage Phase

The Courage Phase is an intensive one week off-campus expedition to the National Forests of Alabama, West Virginia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Illinois, Florida, Missouri or North Carolina. The expedition includes activities such as backpacking, canoeing, whitewater rafting, cycling and other activities. The goal in this phase is to provide a challenging experience that builds the spirit and increases confidence.

The safety of your child is of paramount importance. Our Expedition Coordinator is a Wilderness First Responder (WFR). Round the clock radio and logistical support are maintained throughout the week.

Expeditions are planned specifically for each challenge group. The expeditions are based on age, ability and weather appropriate activities. This phase focuses on the use of new communication skills and reinforces acceptable behaviors while building self-esteem through adventure, challenge and accomplishment. Students learn to appreciate the importance of collective group efforts and shared triumphs under the instruction and guidance of experienced instructors.

Illumination Phase

The Illumination Phase focuses on developing a plan for future success. The Treatment Team works with each student to help them reflect on their past, evaluate their progress and plan for their future.

A three day Parent Workshop Weekend at the end of the program re-establishes communication between family members, clarifies roles and responsibilities, addresses recommendations, and begins healing broken relationships. It is the end of the Courage Phase and the beginning of a productive future.

ERTP supports the mission of The Pinnacle Schools by providing an environment of respect, acceptance and challenge where students can become self-directed, educated and contributing members of society.