Alternatives To Aggression Teen Services

The Program:
The ATA-Teen program is designed to help male and female teenagers eliminate aggressive behavior through a skill-building group treatment program. A group format is utilized to teach participants ways to avoid or manage situations where they are likely to use aggressive behaviors.

Program Goals:
The ATA-Teen program focuses on helping teens:

1. Be accountable for their behavior without minimizing, denying, or blaming it on others.
2. Develop empathy for others.
3. Learn anger management and social skills which offer alternative ways to meet their needs.
4. Become aware of and challenge belief systems that support the use of violence.
   

The Groups:
Male and female groups run separately, but simultaneously, on an ongoing basis. Groups meet weekly, for two hours, for a total of 15 weeks. An exit interview is scheduled at the completion of group to discuss progress and recommendations. Parental involvement is required at the assessment and exit interview. Parents are also expected to attend regularly scheduled parent/teen groups throughout the program. Groups consist of 8-10 members.

Who to Refer:
Male and female adolescents ages 13-17 who have difficulty managing their aggressive behaviors at home, school or in the community. Common behaviors include, verbal abuse, intimidation, physical aggression and destroying property.

How to Refer:
Parents, social workers, school staff, treatment providers, or other responsible adults can start the referral process by calling the Family Service Intake Coordinator at 252-1320, ext. 1122. An assessment session, which must include the parent or legal guardian, is scheduled to determine appropriateness for group.

Fees:
Family Service is a non-profit, licensed mental health clinic, serving all people in Dane County. ATA-Teen services are funded through insurance, HMOs, a sliding-fee scale based upon ability to pay, and Dane County/United Way funds.

For more information email us.