Therapeutic Day Program
September 1, 2009
Therapeutic Day Program: General Information and Q&A
Introduction to the Therapeutic Day Program
The Therapeutic Day Program (TDP) is designed for students aged 12 – 18 who are unable to attend school due to mental health concerns. TDP supports students dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, by providing an academic and therapeutic program, group counselling and recreational opportunities.
Purpose of TDP
TDP provides a self-paced, individualized program in which students set goals with staff regarding both academics and mental health growth. After successfully completing the program, students are transitioned to their community mental health support service for ongoing care and may return to a mainstream school or complete their education through an alternate program such as Keith Lynn Alternate Secondaryor the Youth Learning Centre.
Features and benefits of the program
• Self-paced, individualized academic and therapeutic program
• Small group attention, to a maximum of 14 students at a time
• Multi-grade grouping relieves social stigma of grade levels or academic ability
• Individual and group counselling
• Opportunities for alternative therapy (i.e., acupuncture) to improve treatment outcomes
• Recreation program
• Lunch program
• Parenting skills group for families and caregivers
TDP eligibility criteria/referral procedures
Referrals to the TDP can be made by school staff, family members, community counsellors or social workers. Referrals may be made either by:
1. Vancouver Coastal Health internal referral from psychiatrists or clinicians working with youth; or
2. North Vancouver School District referral from the School Based Resource Team to the District Secondary Counsellor at 604.903.3278
Q&A
How do I know this program is right for a student?
Students in the TDP program must be identified as, or being considered for a diagnosis of an Axis 1 diagnosable mental illness such as anxiety, depression, or psychosis and be unable to attend school because of symptoms. Severe acting-out behaviour or acute substance abuse issues are exclusion factors.
There is a two-week trial period for the TDP to allow youth and their families to experience the program. During this time, staff can assess the suitability of the program for the individual student.
If the program only takes 14 students at a time, is there a wait list?
Yes, there is usually a waitlist. However, it’s important to apply, even if there is a waitlist, as students do complete the program at different times throughout the school year.
Is the Therapeutic Day Program an “alternate school”?
No, the program is not an alternate school, or a homework support service, or an interim placement for students entering a mainstream school. The TDP is a program that offers clinical support while providing an academic program for students with a diagnosed mental illness.
Where is the program located?
At the School District’s Lucas Centre, 2132 Hamilton Avenue in North Vancouver.
What is the schedule of TDP?
The program operates Monday through Friday from 9 – 2:30, with one shorter day to allow for team meetings.
How long do students typically stay in TDP?
The length of time students are at TDP is individual based on their needs—most students complete the school year in the TDP.
Do students who have enrolled in TDP go on to complete secondary school?
Upon completion of TDP, most students return to a mainstream or alternate school environment to complete their high school graduation requirements, while others may decide to enter the workforce.
What kind of experience/qualifications do TDP teachers have?
Everyone involved in the TDP program has specialized skills and training. The TDP instructor has a masters degree in counselling pysychology and was a high school teacher before joining the program. TDP is also supported with a special education assistant skilled in working with youth with special needs. The clinical staff includes a Youth Worker with a specialty in mental health and a clinical counsellor who holds a masters degree in counselling. As well, a psychiatrist consults every week with the staff and students.
Will my child be held back in school after attending TDP? How are they assessed for grade level when returning to a mainstream school?
The goals at TDP are academic and therapeutic. Academic progress is dependent on mental and emotional well-being. For this reason, students may not progress as quickly in their schoolwork as is expected in the mainstream system. The idea is to enhance well being and academic ability will follow.
Are any other organizations or professionals associated with the Therapeutic Day Program?
Our community partner, Vancouver Coastal Health, provides staff support through a clinician, mental health worker and recreation therapist.
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