DIAGNOSIS . . . Navigating the Mental Health Profession Diagnosis is a complex, time-consuming process that must be directed by a team of experienced professionals. It is important for a parent to pinpoint possible causes for the child's symptoms. A full evaluation often includes: Family History Developmental History Teacher and Parent Rating Scales Physical Exams, Hearing and Vision Tests Educational and Neuropsychological Testing Speech and Language Evaluation We can help you select professionals and interpret the results. TREATMENT . . . Bridging the Gap from Evaluation to Recommendation Treatment is also an interdisciplinary effort, requiring ongoing communication among members of the treatment team - parents, doctors, psychologists, therapists and teachers. Interventions may include educational, environmental, and behavioral approaches, as well as medication. We can help you understand the recommendations of the professional team and coordinate their efforts. SUPPORT . . . Supporting Families Living with a special-needs child can be challenging for everyone involved. We can: Provide intensive family support during crisis situations Direct you to specific agencies and support groups that can help Help you learn to set appropriate boundaries We can refer you to a variety of professionals to help you identify unhealthy family dynamics and build positive family relationships. REFERRALS . . . Educational Placement We work with students from elementary school through high school and can provide referrals to wilderness programs, therapeutic boarding schools, emotional growth schools, supportive day/boarding schools, residential treatment centers, and post-secondary programs nationwide. We have visited every program that we suggest. In order to find the most appropriate program for your child, we will review written reports and evaluations and meet with you to identify the next steps. We will observe the student in school whenever possible, and then meet or speak with classroom teachers, speech and language specialists, psychologists, therapists, and other professionals who work with the student. We can also attend Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings when appropriate. We can: Advocate for your child Maximize your student's current classroon situation Optimize local school support services such as Resource Room, Special Education programs, alternative classroom settings or BOCES Select a private day or boarding school that provides programs for students with learning and emotional difficulties Find the right residential or wilderness treatment program Follow up with the student in the new program for one year We can help you select the most appropriate school setting for your child. Parents of a child who is experiencing difficulty often feel isolated and bewildered. Our goal is to place your child in a supportive learning environment and to support you in your effort to become an effective advocate for your child. For more information about Educational Resources Unlimited, email us at Info@EducationalResourcesUnlimited.com or use the links above to visit other pages of this web site.