Families
Integrative Therapy for Sustainable Growth
Pacific Quest’s unique model empowers participants to build and sustain healthy relationships—not just during the program but for the rest of their lives. We don’t just help participants work through a single crisis or point in time. We rely on integrative therapy to build stronger families and lasting support systems for sustainable growth.
What Family Involvement Looks Like
PARENT CURRICULUM
A comprehensive parent curriculum underpins a learning experience for the whole family. The parent manual provides structure and guidance on how to support students at each point in the journey, common challenges, and parallel therapeutic assignments for families.
PARENT COACHING
Dr. Gent leads a weekly coaching series that provides families with education, support, and community.
WEEKLY LETTER WRITING
Right from the beginning, we practice mindful communication. Students write and receive letters from their families (electronically). This process aims to replace reactive or superficial communication with meaningful, thoughtful dialogue. Therapists support families and their students to hone their communication skills with coaching and guidance along the way.
WEEKLY DISCOVERY CALLS
Each week, guardians have an hour-long discovery call with their student’s primary therapist. These discussions help guide the individualized therapeutic approach. When ready, students join these calls and build on the communication skills they’ve been developing through the letter-writing process.
WEEKLY FAMILY THERAPY
Once students have settled into the routine (usually by week 2), they start weekly 90-minute video family therapy calls. This is an opportunity to further individualize their journey, practice supportive communication, and explore deeper topics.
OPTIONAL PARENT PROGRAM
Towards the end of the experience, we invite families to join us in Hawaii for an optional three-day intensive. More than a chance to see how their child and their crops have grown, it’s a chance to practice and exercise the skills and insights developed. Individual, group, and private time helps concretize the journey. (This service is offered for an additional fee)
WEEKLY PHOTOS
Harvesting an exotic fruit that takes two years to mature, doing art projects, and swimming with a sea turtle are all part of the PQ joy. Weekly photos give families a glimpse into the experience.
BUILDING SUPPORT SYSTEMS
A robust support system outside the program is the most crucial factor in continued success. Our therapists work with Educational Consultants, previous and current treatment providers, and school personnel as needed to develop comprehensive follow-up plans.
The Role of Family Involvement
We understand that our students don’t suffer in a vacuum. Their families also experience the pain of their setbacks and the joy of their success. Family involvement enhances communication, increases empathy, and develops usable conflict resolution skills. Because, ultimately, for the family to thrive, every individual needs to practice understanding and trust.
