Celebrating One Year of The Pines at Shrub Oak
The Pines at Shrub Oak proudly marks its one-year anniversary, showcasing substantial progress in supporting neurodiverse youth who require intensive psychiatric care. The program, located on the campus of Shrub Oak International School, is dedicated to providing specialized therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and young adults, with or without autism diagnoses. It integrates treatment and education, offering a structured environment that facilitates stabilization, skill-building, and successful transitions to less restrictive settings.
Growth and Positive Outcomes in the First Year
During its inaugural year, The Pines has achieved over 50% occupancy, a clear indication of the vital need for specialized programs catering to neurodiverse youth with complex psychiatric profiles. Notably, every discharge from the program has been to a less restrictive environment, highlighting the effectiveness of the treatment approaches. The average duration of stay for participants who transitioned out has been around five months, underlining the program's ability to yield significant results in a clinically appropriate time frame.
Insights from the Director
Andrew Dillenbeck, LCSW-R, MBA, who serves as the director of The Pines, expressed immense pride in the program's achievements. He stated, "The first year has been a powerful testament to the potential unlocked when neurodiverse youth receive the right blend of intensive clinical support and tailored education. Our dedicated team focuses on emotional regulation, coping skills, and laying the groundwork for lasting success. Every discharge to a less restrictive environment reflects our commitment to meaningful outcomes, and we remain eager to expand our capacity to support families in need of this care."
Individualized Treatment Approach
The Pines offers a comprehensive set of services: individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, medication management, life skills training, recreational activities, and customized academic instruction tailored to each student. Predominantly rooted in evidence-based practices like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), the approach emphasizes skill development both during the school day and in residential life, aiming to promote coping strategies, behavior management, and independence.
Innovative Learning Environment
One of the standout features of The Pines program is the physical integration of clinician offices within classrooms. This design allows students to access therapeutic resources swiftly, ensuring that clinical goals are interwoven with educational experiences and daily routines. Additionally, expressive modalities, such as art therapy, enhance students’ abilities to communicate, process emotions, and learn self-regulation techniques.
Commitment to Safety and Comfort
Safety remains a fundamental component of the Pine's residential environment. The program is designed with safety features like anti-ligature furnishings, carefully selected to minimize risks while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere.
About Shrub Oak International School and The Pines
Shrub Oak International School is resolute in its mission to uplift the lives of autistic children, adolescents, and young adults. By emphasizing individualized learning and supporting students’ unique strengths and passions, the school fosters meaningful relationships and community navigation, ultimately empowering students to reach their full potential.
The Pines at Shrub Oak specifically addresses the specialized needs of neurodiverse individuals requiring intensive psychiatric support, offering a therapeutic framework built on evidence-informed practices.
Shrub Oak International School holds accreditations from esteemed organizations, including:
- The National Independent Private Schools Association (NIPSA), which grants Level III Therapeutic Certification and Academic Accreditation with an Autism Endorsement;
- The Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS), recognized worldwide for school accreditation and improvement;
- Cognia, indicating adherence to high standards of educational quality and effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of The Pines at Shrub Oak?
The Pines focuses on providing intensive psychiatric support and individualized education for neurodiverse youth.
What results have been observed in the first year?
In its first year, all discharges from The Pines have been to less restrictive environments, highlighting positive outcomes.
Who leads The Pines program?
The Pines is directed by Andrew Dillenbeck, who emphasizes personalized, effective therapeutic approaches.
What types of therapy are offered at The Pines?
The Pines offers individual, group, and family therapy, along with medication management and life skills training.
How does The Pines ensure a safe environment?
The Pines incorporates anti-ligature furniture and focus on purposeful design features that prioritize safety while maintaining comfort.
