Guest blog by Kate Langen, clinical director at Ranch Ehrlo Society

We continue to build on our delivery of services for clients. Our staff regularly look for ways to improve our programming and develop creative approaches to address treatment targets.  When youth can be engaged in a treatment they become willing participants in the change process.

Approximately two years ago specialized groups for youth across the Ranch were introduced. These groups are offered throughout the year and cover topics from grief and loss, building self-esteem through hip hop, LGBTQQ issues, and soon to be launched “Chill Skills” group.The specialized groups bring together a group of young people with similar needs and issues and who may be a similar stage of change and this combination creates a group atmosphere that is extremely exciting to be a part of.

These groups augment the already wonderful clinical services our clients receive in their respective group homes. They are facilitated by clinicians from the residential treatment programs, Ehrlo Counselling Services, as well as youth care staff. And in addition to filling any gaps that may exist, these groups provide opportunities for the youth to build skills, competence, and self-esteem.

Feedback
After the latest hip hop group wrapped up in December with a performance on the Pilot Butte campus, facilitators asked the youth why the group was important. Here are some of their answers:

• “It doesn’t feel like I’m in the Ranch when I am learning hip-hop.”


• “It allows me to leave my problems on the floor.”


• “It’s something different than other programming the Ranch offers.”


• “I like learning dance moves and am proud that I am able to do this in front of others.”

Help and support comes in many forms and we absolutely welcome any creative ideas to target client treatment needs.