Westwood holds summer youth camps

VW independent/submitted information

Westwood Behavioral Health Center has had a busy summer in 2016, with more than 75 children and adolescents enrolled in summer youth programs.

Summer youth programming started over 20 years ago at Westwood and, for many years, enrolled around 15-20 participants. During the past five years, however, enrollments have increased tremendously as additional programs were offered, and staff members hired who are trained to address problems specific to children and adolescents.

Westwood Behavioral Health Center offers four different programs for youths who struggle with mental health and/or behavioral difficulties. Topics addressed include identifying and establishing healthy physical and emotional boundaries, learning to identify and express emotions in healthy ways, building respect for others, as well as self-esteem and, ultimately, healthy relationships.

Groups for children ages 5-8 and 8-12 are held several days per week. Large and small group therapy, as well as life skill building, are included daily in the program. Children also assist in the preparation of the daily meals while learning hygiene and safe kitchen practices.

Fun field trips are also included to locations such as Camp Clay, Science Central, Ultrazone Crazy Pinz, and Kangaroo Cave. While enjoyable for the children, these trips also offer opportunities for young people to practice the social skills they have been working on in a real world situation.

Groups for adolescents ages 12-16 include an Outdoor Adventure Group that uses situations such as hiking, canoeing, and fishing to encourage pro-social behaviors. Also offered is a more process-based group that incorporates current media, such as movies and music, and examines messages sent to young people through these avenues.

Participants explore a variety of topics, including how to form appropriate friendships and address bullying, as well as expectations for dating relationships.

Youths must be open clients of Westwood Behavioral Health Center in order to be referred into one the programs. There is no cost to participants for the summer programs, as services are reimbursed by third party insurance, Medicaid, or subsidized through the local Tri-County Alcohol Drug and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) board.

Westwood is currently accepting new clients and has offices in Van Wert, Paulding, and Delphos. Programs for youths are also available during the school year. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 419.238.3434.