Connections to Self, Others and Community

At TLC, we approach treatment by identifying the unique potential and strengths of each adolescent. This leads to the development of a strength-based treatment plan where adolescents participate in setting goals based on their individual interests and needs. We have created skill sets that strengthen each individual's Connections to Self, Others, and Community.

"Connections to Self" begins with personal safety and self-respect. This lays the groundwork for adolescents to develop a healthy sense of identity, improve mood management and acquire positive coping skills. Connection to Self is the essential foundation to Connections to Others and Connections to Community.

The development of core relational capacities is at the heart of "Connections to Others". These capacities include empathy, trust, respect, and honesty. Adolescents are assisted in improving their communication and social skills in order to strengthen their ability to relate with others and develop lifelong connections.

Creating "Connections to Community" is an integral part of transitioning into adulthood. At TLC, we emphasize community involvement through community outings, volunteer opportunities, employment in local businesses and our apprenticeship and mentoring programs. Each adolescent is supported in learning the skills necessary to navigate a successful return to their family, school, and community.

We approach treatment by identifying the unique strengths, needs and interests of each adolescent. This leads to a strength-based treatment plan tailored to each adolescent's needs and abilities within the three skill sets of the "Connections" philosophy. This individualized treatment is guided by our focus on permanency planning. We work extensively with families to repair relationships and reunify whenever possible. For adolescents without family reunification opportunities we provide independent living skills training to guide them toward successful emancipation into the community.