F.H. asks from West Hills, CA on September 30, 2008
Seeking Teen Support Group or School in the West San Fernando Valley
My son is 14 years old, starting (public) high school and has been dealing with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Tic Disorder (Vocal)for years. He can't take ADHD meds because they make his tics worse so he struggles greatly with school and although smart, doesn't do well in class. Kids ridicule his "noises" and often taunt him with cruel comments. He doesn't socialize well. My heart aches for him having to deal with "normal" teen issues and all of this as well. Does anyone know of a good support group for teens with these types of issues? He is in public high school but I'm also considering more of a specialized school setting. His grades are poor, he hates school and isn't motivated but I suspect most of that is from dealing with cruel kids and teachers. Help!!
More Answers
J.M. answers from Los Angeles on October 01, 2008
There is a Lady named Nancy Sacks in Agoura Hills... She practices Holistic Medicine... You can find her at nancysacks.com check out her website The Holistic Haven... I hope that she can offer help.
Sincerely, JM
J.W. answers from Los Angeles on October 02, 2008
There's BILY - Because I Love You - that meets at Granada High School every Tuesday at 7pm. Kids can go also.
There's a website for more information: http://www.becauseiloveyou.org/
Good luck!
N.C. answers from Los Angeles on October 01, 2008
Heartbreaking, F..
This is not a reply to your specific question but, have you thought of a yoga class for him?
It might help him in general and it certainly won't cause him any harm.
C.D. answers from Los Angeles on October 01, 2008
My son goes to a beautiful private school in Northridge that I would highly recommend as a gentle, nurturing environment for what they call "teaching the child from the inside out." It focuses on each individual child and who they are and how best to help them blossom into a confident, strong and compassionate person. It is Highland Hall Waldorf and you can find out about them at www.highlandhall.org
I know that they have a very small class in each grade and the children know each other deeply. What I have heard is that they are not cruel to each other but learn about each person and their issues and become a support for each other. The teens I have seen graduating from there are the most mature, intelligent and compassionate I have ever seen. I hope you can check it out.
All my best to you and your son,
C.
K.L. answers from Los Angeles on October 01, 2008
Yes, try Hand in Hand in Encino ###-###-####, online at http://www.handinhandonline.org/. My daughter has ADHD and she used to have some unusual facial tics which I think her meds made worse. She takes Vyvanse now and the tics have disappeared. Good luck!!
M.L. answers from Los Angeles on October 01, 2008
I am a neuropsychologist in the Conejo Valley and there is a psychologist, Chris Fulton, who runs a number of support/socialization groups in the Calabasas area, including groups for kids you son's age. His number is ###-###-####. Hope this helps.
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