The Collaborative Problem Solving model within our Adolescent Boys Unit follows the principals outlined by Ross Greene, Ph. D in the book, “The Explosive Child.” Through the use of empathy we work with patients to identify specific skills that are considered “lagging” and teach the patient how to overcome these skill deficits. We have identified the following ten primary skill deficits that typically precipitate admission to our facility:

• Expressing Self
• Planning and Preparation
• Focus
• Empathy
• Problem Solving
• Transitions
• Timing
• Managing Emotions
• Rigid Thinking
• Social Skills

Lacking in these skills can lead to anger, frustration, sadness, and anxiety as the adolescent struggles to express and interact appropriately. These increasingly intense emotions can then manifest into increased aggression towards oneself and others.
Within the CPS model, patients explore a different skill daily through therapeutic groups and role play. These skills are reviewed throughout treatment and then transitioned following discharge into the home environment through instruction and implementation plans provided to the parents or other caregivers by the patient’s case manager.