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Did this provider leave you unattended for an extended period of time?

Yes, I was completely ignored for a long time!

Did this provider show attention to detail?

Definitely not. They were unaware of my situation, even though they had my information

Is this provider's business conveniently located?

Not at all, its out in the boondocks

by Anonymous xxx.xxx.216.179

September 05, 2013

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Well, if you are reading this, I must implore you to continue doing so, because the information that I have on Explorations in Trout Creek Montana is vital not only to the parents who have children there, but also to the general public. Explorations is comprises of a large log cabin in the western end of Montana. Now you may be asking, what makes such an insignificant and small place so important? Why must I watch this video so fervently? Well, let me explain. So, first off, you’d think that a place such as Explorations would have some sort of licensing to do what they are doing by the state, or any of that important stuff. Well, spoiler alert: They don’t. Accredited Youth Group Homes in the state of Montana… Explorations isn’t on that. Residential Treatment facilities in the great ol’ state of Montana… Explorations is Missing in Action. Outdoor Behavioral Programs—Oh, you know, like the ones kids aren’t meant to run from and make a mistake caused by the lack of staff and experience that will lead to their long-term imprisonment… Yeah.. Explorations isn’t on that one, either. Youth Shelter Care—Need I say it? They aren’t on that list, either. Well, whoops, Penny James, looks like you are running a faulty business from your house like someone running a meth lab out of your home—Right? Wrong, actually. Because, it was people like Ms. James who advocated for the policy that would limit the regulations to programs like Explorations—to… None. Now, while I was at Explorations, I faced abuse that still haunts me today, from its owner, Penny James. For instance, she asked me on multiple occasions to “Stop being the gay kid.” When I couldn’t deliver, she threatened to kick me out of the house. Another reason is that when I wore—this shirt—and—this scarf, I had my belongings searched because these items are, “gender bender” to Ms. James. I was addressed multiple times as, “The gay Kid”… Thought by James that I cared whatsoever that she won some Dept Store Makeup because “I’m gay, and I should know this.” Of course, when I couldn’t deliver on ANY of those things, she had me sign a contract stating… Adherence to the commitments made in group on August 28: keep ‘low profile’, will not draw inappropriate attention to sexual orientation, avoid loud and boisterous behavior, etc. No make-up worn nor discussion with others about the use of make-up. Now, like I did when I saw this before me, you are surprised, perhaps baffled at this. Well, it was sort of not an option.. Seeing it was either stay in the closet—or sleep outside and work continuously. Another contract was sent to my parents, and asked them oh-so-perniciously to: Supporting “changing his communication schedule, time out of the milieu for redirection and intensive therapeutic support (out of school, wilderness involvement, call schedule, cancel visits here or him there if behaviors dictate, etc.)” From there, James asked with no shame for my mother to fraudulently write a letter in my father’s handwriting when she states that Can you communicate directly to Anthony – in writing, in Tony’s handwriting on both of your behalf – that you support us and what you are willing to do and NOT do? This would optimally include all the topics above and would also allow us the opportunity to read through this letter and provide coaching, prior to delivering to Anthony. Now, you might be asking yourself, but what if this kid is really messed up? Well, my dear sir/ma’am, even if I am—when one addresses a teen who opens up to them about their suicidal contemplation, you don’t threaten further institutionalization, expecting the fear to relent the upcoming noose, do you? Nor do you curse, scream, yell, lie, and be an overall sadistic and inhumane force of evil to that suicidal teen. Right?

by Anthony Ardillo xxx.xxx.37.61

August 19, 2012

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I would give this place no stars if I had that option. This is a horrible place. I sent my child there thinking it would help our relationship and help her get back on track. Instead, they stole my money for over a year, and didn't help in any shape or form. It is supposedly therapeutic, yet there is not one single licensed professional living with the teens. They will take anyone just for your money, even if it is "against their better judgement". The owner, Penny James, made that better judgement statement to my daughter, telling her "we weren't going to take you because of your situation, but I did anyways".
The owners aren't even professionally trained to use therapy. They might have one therapist to talk with the kids, but other than that, they are not involved in their life. The one therapist that was there towards the end of her stay was completely egotistical and didn't relate with any of the kids, making them call her Dr. and refusing to connect on a personal level with them. Not only that, the kids must go to a local public school where half the students are pregnant or on drugs, not helping family issues by any means and taking away any confidentiality from the program.
Please, do not send your kids here!

by Angry Parent

September 19, 2011

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