Successfully working with teens requires various approaches that build trust, respect and confidence. At Ironwood School and Residential Treatment Center (RTC) our therapists, teachers and staff use the IRONWOOD MODEL OF RELATIONSHIPS. Simply stated, this proprietary model is the bedrock of Ironwood and guides our staff in developing healthy, appropriate and meaningful relationships of trust with students. When students enjoy respectful relationships with staff, learning and growth is both accelerated and enhanced.
Coupled with the strong relationships fostered at Ironwood is the breadth and depth of our academic and therapeutic programs. Each program offers a wide variety of activities and courses that are customized to each student’s needs and ensures their ability to achieve therapeutic and academic success.
Getting Back to Basics Brings Perspective and Appreciation
Upon enrolling at Ironwood, students begin their journey in the first phase of the program at Frye, which is a wilderness, or experiential living environment. Here students live in more primitive living quarters where taking care of the here and now needs are vital to comfort and growth. Learning basic living skills without all the creature comforts or distractions of home brings a newfound appreciation for people and things that students may have taken for granted.
Students learn how to make a fire without matches and lighters, and cut lumber for wood-burning stoves to keep warm. While the natural setting provides a stark contrast to what they are accustomed to, students find the wilderness and quiet, simple environment well-suited for introspection and self-discovery. The wilderness component is always a life-altering, memorable and empowering experience that promotes humility, appreciation, self-esteem and self-confidence.
Read more about life at Frye in our blog.
