Annual Parent Retreat

Session One: 9:45 – 10:45am

Why Medication is Sometimes Part of the Treatment Plan
Presented by Dr. Robert Grambau
Children and adolescents sometimes present with problems relating to the world around them – trauma, adoption, illness, loss – yet not all problems are due to life events. An ever-increasing body of evidence indicates that disorders once thought to be caused by environment are, in part, hereditary. These biological/genetic issues often do not fully respond to therapy, changes in environment, or behavior modification. We all dislike giving medications to young people but in some cases, it is the most effective treatment, and medication, alone, is not as effective as a combination of therapy and medication together. This talk will address some of the presenting problems best treated with medication, and review benefits vs. safety issues and short-term vs. long-term treatment plans.

Managing the Dynamics of Power Struggles
Presented by Brooke Martins, Transition Coordinator
Power struggles between children and adults are stressful for all involved, and an incident can easily escalate into crisis. Power struggles often occur when a child’s emotions and behaviors conflict with an adult’s authority, leading to a cycle of resistance and control. This training will share strategies on recognizing a power struggle developing; how to de-escalate a situation through active listening and emotional regulation; and the importance of maintaining a calm, supportive approach to guide children towards cooperation and success. The goal of this training is to empower parents to help their child feel heard, while establishing healthy boundaries, fostering mutual respect, and reducing the likelihood of conflict.

Session Two: 11:00am – 12:30pm

Animal Fun 101
Presented by Skyler Opromolla, Farm Science Teacher
See what your children experience during farm class. Come to Popper Farm to participate in some of our favorite activities with the animals. Learn a bit about some of our animals, and even pick up some new skills!

Guided Fall Painting
Led by Alison Uliss, LCAT, ATR-BC
You don’t need to know how to paint to attend this workshop! Participants will be guided every step of the way. All you have to do is bring your sense of adventure and desire for fun and leave with a Fall masterpiece of your own.

Zip & Stroll
Led by Zac Staszak, Director of Recreation
Our Clearpool Campus offers great opportunities for adventure but one of the coolest is the zip line. That may sound scary to some but Clearpool’s high ropes course is a fun and exhilarating experience even for the most timid. Walk up a few steps to the platform, hook up to top of the line safety equipment, and enjoy a smooth glide over the lake. Once on the other side, take a 15-20 minute walk through the woods to enjoy the fall colors. Workshop accommodates up to 15 participants.

*Please note that certain health and safety restrictions must be observed. Physical limitations that prohibit participation include pregnancy; any bone, seizure or heart conditions; any muscular or skeletal injuries particularly to the hips, back, neck, ribs or shoulders; body weight exceeding 250 lbs.

Keynote: 2:00 – 3:15pm

Parenting a Child with Intense Emotions: DBT Tool Kit
Presented by Erin Rider, LCSW
Why do some children have more intense emotions than others and how does this manifest in their behaviors? Strategies in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) focus on developing emotional resilience to reduce the frequency and intensity of outbursts. This discussion will focus on core DBT skills and the principle of balancing acceptance and change. Learn how to support your child through their most challenging moments, while encouraging them to develop healthier ways of responding.

Breakfast will be available at 9:00am, during the morning introduction.
Lunch will be served at 12:30pm. Vegetarian option available; please indicate on each attendee’s registration where there is a need.

By Car
Please find directions to our Clearpool Campus at www.greenchimneys.org/directions

By Train
Metro-North Railroad Harlem Line to SOUTHEAST station. Taxi service available at the station; go to pick up line at base of stairs or call:
Express Taxi 845.278.8830
Southeast Taxi 845.278.4444

*Transportation will not be provided by Green Chimneys. Attendees are responsible for all travel.

Please RSVP via the registration links below. Workshop selections must be indicated for each individual attending so please complete a registration for yourself, and a guest registration for each additional attendee. Registration must be received by Monday, October 28th.

Primary Attendee Registration

Guest Registration