During each edition of our newsletter we have had an article on a successful youth. This made me reflect on the great value of our work and our wraparound model. The benefits of wraparound come from the value system itself. I’d like to focus on a few of the values that have made our work successful to the families we serve.
The one I find most prominent is the power of giving the family a voice and choice in their own treatment. When families feel heard about their experiences, they feel part of the solution. When they are given choices of what service, provider or any general preference they become involved and empowered. There is also a sense of ownership in the process and not just being prescribed or told what the solution should be. Another value is a strengths-based perspective. So often, youth or families are informed of what they may be doing wrong or negative attributes that exist. Identifying their strengths makes them feel valuable and confident about themselves. It also makes it easier to find positive outcomes utilizing an area of interest. Another great value is having community-based solutions. Sending a youth to be treated outside of their home makes them feel like they are a failure or an outcast within their own community and adds unnecessary stress. The benefits of keeping a youth in their home with family, in their school with friends and in their community is invaluable. Research shows children that live with their families thrive better than youth treated outside the home environment.
James Parauda, LSW
Executive Director
