Skype - Not Just for Socializing Anymore

CHICAGO, March 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- A dad in New York, a mom in Los Angeles, and their daughter receiving life saving treatment in Chicago – while a scattered scenario, this is not an uncommon one for Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center, which treats women and young girls from all over the country who suffer from eating disorders, substance and drug abuse issues, co-occurring disorders, trauma and other mental illnesses. And because of this, Timberline Knolls is piloting a new program to utilize the latest in technology, in the form of Skype, to clinically enhance its family therapy sessions and better achieve everyone's number one goal; lifelong recovery for the residents at Timberline Knolls.

"Families are one of the most powerful resources available to individuals in their recovery," according to Stan Selinger, PhD, clinical psychologist and Family Therapy Coordinator at Timberline Knolls. "And by using Skype, we are able to improve the experience of our family therapy sessions by making these sessions as close to being there in person as possible – which can many times help put everyone at ease and allow for more honest dialogue. Skype also allows for me to analyze the non-verbal messages and reactions of the family members involved, which cannot be done via conference call."

"Helping our residents achieve lifelong recovery is our top priority at Timberline Knolls," said James Gresham, CEO at Timberline Knolls. "And because of this, we are constantly analyzing the newest in technology that's out there and implementing the technology that will help improve our treatment process."

In addition to utilizing this technology in family therapy sessions, Timberline Knolls will also use this to better enhance the discharge process. "Many times, prior to a resident leaving for a lower level of care, such as transitional or outpatient facilities, face to face meetings are either required or preferred," said Mark DeDonato, LCSW, ACSW, Director of Discharge Planning and Primary Therapist at Timberline Knolls. "Skype allows for these meetings to happen when many times distance and means of travel might be limiting. Ultimately, we can better ensure proper care for our residents once they leave Timberline Knolls."  

Skype provides easier and more meaningful accessibility for families and residents, and with 70% of the residents at Timberline Knolls coming from out of state, it is a valuable addition for all, and Timberline Knolls is excited to launch this pilot program.

About Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center

Timberline Knolls is a leading private residential treatment center for eating disorders and substance abuse, with or without trauma, a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder. Expert treatment staff offers a nurturing environment of recovery for women and girls (ages 12 and older) on a wooded 43-acre campus in suburban Chicago. Women and families seeking Christian treatment have the option of working with a dedicated Christian therapist. For more information on Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center, call us at 877.257.9611.

SOURCE Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center