When selecting a program for your teen, a few rules need to be considered. Avoid programs that don't address particularly dangerous behaviors. Suicidal, extremely violent, or youth with severe eating disorders should not be places in "one-size-fits-all" programs. Great care should be taken in finding specialized solutions for these behaviors. Mismatching these youth in the wrong program can have devastating results.

Programs that have lasting change on your child will have common characteristics. Those characteristics include clear guidelines, goal setting, progress tracking, and follow-up counseling.

Another consideration when enrolling a student is the new program's environment. Try to find a program that fits your child age group and is already treating your teen's behavioral problems. For less severe behavioral problems most programs will work. As problems become more severe seek specialized care.

There are a wide range of programs for teens that work well. These include:

• Camps
• Schools
• Ranches
• Resources & Books
• Therapy & Treatment
• Christian Schools & Bible Camps
• Military Schools & Boot Camps
• Group Homes
• Local Organizations