New Hope For Atlanta Area Family With Struggling Teen

One Atlanta-area family had reached the end of their rope; their situation had spiraled out of control, even to the point of having to admit their child into a psychiatric treatment center. There were few Atlanta area boarding schools for teens that would suit their situation. They were hoping to find a Christian therapeutic boarding school that offered counseling and help for their struggling teen. It seems as though God guided them to Shepherd's Hill Farm.

Their child began his time here in a hopeless and desperate state of mind; he simply could not see how his life would ever be any better. After unproductive tenures in a local psychiatric hospital, the young man had all but given up on solving any of his problems. The problems had reached beyond his or his family's ability to resolve without some external guidance and support. Shepherd's Hill Farm is a Christian therapeutic boarding school for teenagers and their families. The young man, through some intensive therapy and a lot of prayer, was able to gain a new perspective on his life, and eventually found some hope.

Through a family therapy meeting his parents had learned that their methods of discipline had sent a message to their son that, unless he behaved, he was unloved and unwelcomed as part of the family. Once the family restructured their patterns and methods of discipline and communication the young man felt refreshed and loved! He said "it's like they don't hold a grudge against me anymore!" The excitement was in response to an accepting and loving posture from his father, one that sent a message of: "We still have boundaries, but no matter what you are always my son and I will always love and accept you."

This young man, who had recently spent time in a psychiatric facility, went through the New Creation Wilderness Program, was promoted into our Next Step Program, and has displayed remarkable leadership skills and responsibility! What a privilege and blessing it is to see the smile and joy on this young man's face! God truly has done a remarkable work in this family.

Shepherd's Hill Farm is a Christian Boarding School; outdoor residential program located on an 80 acre wilderness facility for troubled youth ages 13-17 struggling with a variety of negative behaviors. We are equipped with a completely devoted Christian staff that uses biblical principles in a loving authoritative community environment.