Therapeutic Boarding Schools Testimonials

I am truly grateful for your knowledge and experience of placing children in schools of appropriate needs. I could not be more happy with the placement of C___. Her maturity, emotional growth, and academics exceed what my expectations allowed. Having C___ involved in the decision making of placement was truly an important factor. C___ is a happy person now and is doing quite well. Thank you, David

Mother of C____, St. Augustine, Florida

David Altshuler provided wisdom and a wealth of experience as my husband and I considered an emotional growth boarding school for our child. David helped make sense out of a time when we were faced with the most difficult decision of out lives thus far. Without his direction and encouragement we might never have made the choice to get the help that has given us our daughter back. Thanks to David, we are a stronger family now more than ever.

Mother of M___, Miami, Florida

We take this opportunity to thank you for all the support and extraordinary attention you have given our family. We met when we were at our wit's end trying to find the best educational solution for our son, T___. From the moment we met through to where we are today, you have been a professional, thorough, nurturing, kind and compassionate advisor.

We would not be where we are today with our children if it were not for you and your work. We could not have navigated the world of educational options that are out there without you. You combine experience and wisdom with instinct and compassion and we all feel we are in excellent hands. And of course you have been absolutely on target with all of your recommendations.

Beyond the expertise that you bring, you have an even more profound quality: the way in which you connect with you real clients, the children. You non-judgmental and down to earth style mixed with a little tough love gives the kids the objectivity they need. Part coach, part counselor, part teacher, the children respond well to your approach and appreciate taking an active part in the decision making process.

There are few things more daunting than the education of our children. Working with you we have a partner who recognizes the emotions but stays practical and focused on offering solutions tailored to fit the unique qualities of our children. To know we have a professional of your caliber and integrity guiding us through both college and high school admissions processes is about as good as it gets.

Thank you from all of us, for everything you have done and are doing for our family. It is a privilege to know you and we wish you continued success with all of your students.

Mother of T___ and S___, Miami, Florida

I write this for all parents out there to know where and who to go to in times of special needs. My son was a struggling adolescent with learning disabilities and suffering from an awful divorce. Emotionally, he was a sad boy and had many issues. Mr. David Altshuler could not have been any more patient with our family. David was precise in his assessment of my son's issues and bravely determined to help at all costs. He tolerated an awful lot of drama so professionally.

We went from college counseling to a horrifying path of uncovering substance abuse and what to do about it. I was never going to give up on my child and Mr. Altshuler didn't either. He worked swiftly and we got my son to a great program that he thrived at. He says thanks a million mom every time we speak.

I truly believe because I saw it with my own two eyes that David's expertise goes beyond his profession and his character is honest and brave. He did what it took to save my son and supported us all the way!

I feel he saved my boy! I cry as I write this because it is so hard to think of how my child could have ended up hurting himself! I now have a respectful young man who is 18 and voluntarily completing his program. He thanks me constantly and apologizes for what I went through.

Mr. Altshuler has seen it all but I think dealing with my son and his family must have been a giant burden, time consuming and overwhelming.

I thank Mr. Altshuler from the bottom of my heart and my son would be glad to speak with you or your children if they have concerns. My God bless Mr. Altshuler and his family. He is a true hero and we will be grateful for his knowledge, heart and patience for the rest of our lives.

Please take this bit of advice. Don't wait. Move when he tells you to move! He will steer you in the right direction no matter what placement you seek. By the way, I did interview others before going straight to David. Don't waste your time.

From the most grateful mother in the world,

Kim , Mother of G____, Miami, Florida

Nearly one year ag, we had a 16 year-old in major crisis. He was struggling to fit into a high school that was supposed to be "the best," keeping in his insecurities, anxieties, and far from reaching his potential. In a deep depression, he withdrew from his family and friends, refused to go back to school, and came very close to hurting himself. A misguided therapist only made matters worse. Then, a new physician, referred us to David. He welcomed us into his home at dinner time on a Friday night, I thought because he heard the desperation in our message. After that first visit, however, we learned that this is David--warm, compassionate, and understanding. David not only took his time to get to know our son, but the whole family dynamics. He was able to reach out and guide our son to the conclusion that leaving home was not the answer, and supported him as he transitioned into the right school for him, right in town.

Mother of G___, Miami , FL

How does one start a letter to thank a person for saving his son't life? It is funny how God places people in your life. My son, C___ had a serious drug problem. So, under your guidance I sent C___ last year to the wilderness program and then to the "Over 18" program you recommended. I want you to know C___ has had a miraculous recovery and is presently employed and living on his own, clean and sober. Thanks to your selfless act I now have a son again. I can not thank you enough for what you have done for C___ and our family. I am forever in your debt. Knowing how you are, I know this story would go untold, so I hope you will frame and display this thank you note. Every day we toil and wonder if our work is meaningful. I have to say that what you do changes a person's life dramatically. My son and my life are proof of that. Keep up the excellent work and know you may use me as a reference any time. May God bless you.

Father of C___, San Diego, California

Therapeutic Boading Schools

When young people are making poor choices resulting in family discord...

When everything else has been tried and has been found wanting...

When the schoolsno longer know what to do...

When loval therapeutic otions have been exhausted...

When the young person in your life is no longer recognizable as the child you had such high hopes for and loved so much...

It may be time for a change.

Many times, but not always, the poor judgment and inappropriate behavior of teens is accompanied by substance abuse or even chemical dependence What is most typical is oppositional behavior-- ranging from skipping school and ignoring curfew to taking drugs and running away. Defiant teens may or may not act out. Some are passive and depressed. Others are active and agressive.

There are programs in which teens suffering from a combination of the following issues can take the first step toward transformative positive change

oppositional behavior

anxiety

substance abuse

hyperactivity

low self esteem

depression

defiance

promiscuity

bi-polarity

entitlement

eating disorders

manipulative behavior

running away

school failure

deteriorating family relationships

To determine an effective placement, David Altshuler meets with the family and, if at all possible, the student. He analyzes school records and testing, the consults with teachers, therapists, psychiatrists and other involved professionals as appropriate.

Many times a year, David makes trips to tour schools, meet with staff and students, even have lunch in the cafeteria! (rewrite this sentence -jolie) By keeping current on curricular and staffing changes at the best programs, David is uniquely qualified to recommend that wilderness therapy, emotional growth boarding school or residential treatment facility that will best help the student on the path to a meaningful recovery and a productive, fulfilling life.

As a professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association- a designation earned by only a few highly credentialed consultants- David is committed to supporting ethical consulting. Specifically, in order to promote client-centered and principled counseling, I have never accepted and will never accept a fee from a school or program. My recommendations are objective, based soley on what is in the long range best interests of the student or family. All consultations are kept confidential.r

Questions About College Admissions

What questions do families frequently ask?

Families ask questions about admissions...

Is it harder than ever to get into a "good" college?

What if my son or daughter isn't admitted to a top tier school?

Families ask questions regarding testing...
· When should I take the SAT-I?
· Should I take the ACT?
· Should I take SAT-II subject tests?
If so, which subject tests should I take and when should I take them?

Families ask questions regarding applying...
· Should I take advanced placement courses?
· How much consideration do the colleges place on extra-curricular activities?
· How important are athletics?
· Should I have an influential family friend write a letter of recommendation?
· To how many colleges should I apply?
· Should I apply early decision?
· Am I likely to be admitted to a particular school?
· What about interviews?
· What about essays?

Families ask questions regarding colleges...
· What is the difference between a big, state-supported university and a small private college?
· Is it OK if I don’t know what I want to major in?
· Which colleges and universities are appropriate matches for me?
· Where should I apply?

David Altshuler can help you answer these and other questions about the college admissions process. Most importantly, he can help you distinguish myth from fact. He knows the truth about admissions and can assuage anxiety and dispel misconceptions.

College, Kids Should Match (letter to the Editor, Miami Herald)

This letter was printed on the Opinions and Editorials Page of the Miami Herald on December 7, 2002

Re: recent stories on college admissions, such as College Confidential-the inside story of getting into your dream school (Living, Nov. 25): It's good to throw a spotlight on the college-transition process, but the essence of the articles only make students more nervous.

I am a member of the National Association for College Admissions Counselors and a professional with 17 years in the field.

The problem comes from viewing college admissions as a zero-sum game, with winners and losers: Winners go to First Choice University and the losers end up at North Cornstalk College. The game analogy is flawed.

Admissions decisions are about "matches." Ethical counselors encourage students to learn about a variety of schools that meet their academic, social and emotional needs. Believing that if they don't get into their first choice college, they will end up at a second-rate college benefits no one--and is contradicted by the facts.

Suggesting that there are only a few colleges worthy of admission is akin to suggesting that only movie stars are suitable for dating. Not all of us can marry a movie star. Yet many people are satisfied with their mates nonetheless.

Hundreds of the best colleges in the country go begging for qualified applicants in a given year. That the same few top schools--some of them with exceptional academic programs, some with recent national championships in sports--have 15% acceptance rates every year is a tribute to a lemming mentality among adolescents and their parents. The vast majority of accredited colleges and universities admit virtually every qualified applicant.

Furthermore, the list of accomplished Americans who went to "no-name" colleges contnues to expand: Arthur Compton was graduated from the College of Wooster. If he had matriculated at Harvard instead, would he have won two Nobel prizes in physics? Andrew Grove found Grinnell College in Iowa. Then he founded Intel.

The article states that the majority of four year colleges raised their standards for high school grade-point average. Why wouldn't they raise their standards for GPA? With the plethora of AP courses now available, GPAs are higher with every graduating class. Before the proliferation of AP courses, a 4.0 meant all A grades and the possibility of giving the valedictory speech. Now a 4.0 very likely reflects a B average and a sprinkling of AP courses.

Once there were no AP environmental science and AP psychology classes. But a generation from now students will be signing up for "AP evolution of the corduroy suit" and a 5.3 GPA will delegate that student to the bottom half of her graduation class.

Suggesting that private schools get their kids into Harvard is like suggesting that Jackson Memorial Hospital kills its patients. Look at who the clients are coming in before judging what happens to them going out. Top private schools have top kids to work with, and good kids go to good schools. Further, all colleges and universities in this country are eager to admit under represented minorities- especially those from public schools. For example, midrange SAT scores at the University of Pennsylvania were between 1300 to 1480 last year. One of my clients- a low income, homeless, Hispanic student from an inncer-city school was admitted with a score of 1100.

I would advise students to study hard, love learning for its own sake and have a great four years- at First Choice or at North Cornstalk

David Altshuler

Member, National Association of College Admissions Counselors

Miami, Florida

College Admissions Testimonials

"David's enthusiasm for getting to know his clients and finding the right match for college is unequaled by anyone. he devoted many hours to understand the personality of my child before suggesting any school for the family to look at. Thoughout the whole process, Elizabeth was the main focus of discussion and anything she siad was listened to. When it came time to choose a college, David helped Elizabeth verbalize her thoughs and concerns and choose a school that is helping her grow into a wonderful adult."

Lisa Cantu, mother of Elizabeth, Wellesley College

"David Altshuler devotes and extrordinary amount of time to making sure that the student and parents together look at all aspects of the college selection and admission process, so the student and the parents make a highly informed decision. David is very interested in providing a quality service, and David is the epitome of the consummate professional in the admission process. I believe that his service has been immensely valuble to my daughter as she went though the very stressful college admission process."

Michael Ray, father of Rebecca, Villanova University

"David Altshuler motivated my son early in his high school career to "take ownership" of the process of finding the college right for him. Working with our family, and understanding my son's talents, interests, and needs, David was able to direct usin finding the perfect match. As a result the transition to college life has been made much easier for all of us."

Marjorie Baron, mother of David, Haverford College

"There is nothing we can suggest for you to improve your services as we find you anticipate all of our needs and questions. Frankly I do not know how parents do it without a 'David' in their life. You have been not only a clear guidance but a source of strength as well."

Maritza Gonzalez, mother of Fernando Prieto, Hope College.

"David is experienced, effective and professional. Based on observations of David's interactions with my son, and conversations with other parents whose children have used David and other adults who used David when they were in school you can trust David for top notch service."

Jonathan Kroner, father of Michael, Oberlin College

"We have known David Altshuler for over 30 years and have always held him in the highest regard. When we needed his professional services, we didn't waver for a moment to put ourselves in his capable hands. here's what happneed: we started the process as a family in question and we ended it as happy campers. We wouldn't necessarily have more kids for the sole purpose of sending them to David, but we won't hesitate to send our younger son to him or to recommend David to anyone who wants to give their child a terrific gift."

Joann and Roger Soman, parents of Gerad, Loyola University

"I recommend David Altshuler without reservation. He understands parents and students. He has an uncanny knack for jollying everyone past the pushes and pulls encountered during this important passage from teenager to young adult. He helped me, he guided me, he chided me to see the uniqueness of each of my very different children. Each made my very happy as they found their own path to academic success and personal growth. I hold David personally responsible for the many thousands of dollars we have happily paid for higher education of our children."

Mel Black, father of Miles, Kalamazoo College

and Katie, Lynn University, Cum Laude;

and Aaron, Boston University

"You took a huge responsitiliby and concern off my shoulders as I truly did not have the background or knowledge to guide Charles through the process of college selection. Your mehod of evaluating a student's realisitc potential for college and taking the time to understand and know the person you are guideing is not only a compassionate but insightful and I believe enchances the possibility of a student having a successful and enjoyable college experience."

Irene Marie, mother of Charles, Ogelthorpe University

"After taking our high school daughter to see at least a dozen colleges, she was more confused thane ver as to where to apply. She had visited schools of varying sizes and locations and had ruled out everything she'd seen. We knew we needed a new set of criteria but we didn't know how to begin. We decided to seek the help of David Altshuler, based on a recommendation of a frien. David helped our daughter narrow down her focus in locating schools which would meet her needs. The best part, however, was having David pester her about her essays and application details, rather than us. She met all the deadlines and achieved a successful early admission. Thank you, David!"

Leigh Siegel, mother of Lillian, Wesleyan University

" Peter is doing great and loves college! On a scale of one to ten, you're a 15!"

Lynn Zekvich, mother of Peter Milano, Bard College

"I always assumed the job of a college adviser was to help students finesse their way into the most prestigious colleges and universities. David Altshuler is qualified to do that. But he is equally adept at matching students with less convential learning communities when that seems appropriate. My son came to David with mixed feelings about finishing high school. By asking questions and listening carefully to my son's concerns, David helped him explore a wide range of options. By the fall of his senior year, my son felt confident about his own decision to apply to college. David followed through by breaking the application process into manageable components. By the time he had an acceptance in hand, my son felt more, rather than less, independent for having made use of David's services."

Vicky Krawchek, mother of Avram, Hampshire College

"The college selection process is a daunting one, but with David's expertise and sensitive guidance, my daughter found the perfect match."

Laurie Russell, mother of Alex, Haverford College

"Your information provided for us the exact information we were seeking. Your kindness and patience helped guide and direct us."

Judy Pearlson, mother of Aliza, Barnard College

"We wanted to thank you very much for all the help and support you offered us during Ricky's college admissions process. You reassured him with the essay, knowing when to tell him he was done! Your rapport with our son, your skills and your assessment were outstanding. Ricky always felt very comfortable working with you and felt motivated throughout the whole process. You worked patiently with him to select a range of schools that were safe yet attractive. You also helped him carefully pick reach schools according to his interests and inclinations. Our son was accepted at many of his reaches, making it a very successful experience. It was important to know that he was incapable and professional hands to help him make such an important decision."

Adriana Gluski, mother of Ricky, Bard College

"We found the college services valuable. We were especially impressed with Mr. Altshuler's knowledge of teh admissions process and his guidance on writing college essays was particularly outstanding."

Amy Crystal, mother of Lisa, University of Miami

"The most important service you provided for our family was the ability to have a real discussion about college. Prior to contracting with you, our son didn't want to take the time to talk to us about what he thought he wanted from a college experience. You not only enabled teh conversation, but motivated him to continually move through the selection and application process. While I'm sure that we--eventually--would have been able to do it without you, the process would have been much more painful and the outcome (perhaps) not as favorable. Thanks."

Beth Davidson, mother of Josh, Brandeis University

"All three of our children went to David for help and advice with the college admissions process. David made it exciting for them and it was one of their many extra night time meetings they actually looked forward to attending. We have three very different children and David was able to connect with each one. Many thanks and we recommend David to our friends and family."

Kim Lopez, mother of Andrea, New York University

and Vanessa, Northwestern University

and Justine, Stetson College

"You're perfect."

Shelley Gitlow, mother of Ali, New York University

College Admissions

Families frequently ask why they should consider an independent admissions counselor. Some of my clients feel that they require more time than the admissions counselors in their high schools can devote. Other families feel that an objective perspective from someone who is not employed by the school can be beneficial. Many of my families agree that an independent counselor can be of use by helping the parents and students agree on the best strategy for choosing and applying to college or boarding school. Evoking consensus within the family so that the process of applying is smooth is also the job of the independent counselor.

There are three main ways in which I help families with the transition process:

1. In the selection phase, I meet with the student and the parents. I ask questions that help me identify which colleges are appropriate academic and social-emotional matches. I then present the family with a list of schools and explain why they would be good choices. Families learn about the admissions process and begin to clarify and understand the student's expectations and priorities.

2. In the application phase, I guide students through recommendations, test scores, transcripts and the applications themselves with particular emphasis on essays. It is my intention to guide and empower students to take control of the process so that they understand how the applications work and are able to successfully complete the applications by themselves.

3. After the schools make their decisions, in the acceptance phase, I continue to meet with families to discuss the best school to attend, first-year course selection, and the best use of the college years.

Over the past 20 years, my students have varied tremendously. Some are admitted to extremely competitive colleges, some have special learning needs, many have extraordinary talents and strengths. Some attend large public universities; some matriculate at smaller, private liberal arts colleges. Some study business, some study psychology or biology or engineering or a host of other subjects.. Some go to art colleges, some to schools with programs for learning support. If I were to name one quality that many of my students share, it would be the willingness to learn about colleges that are appropriate matches.

Traditional Boarding School Placements

Having visited a range of boarding schools across the country, David is uniquely qualified to make recommendations for a variety of students.

Traditional boarding school options range from schools with highly academic, intensely rigorous academic curriculum to warm, nurturing schools catering to students who learn differently or may need structure and support to be successful. Traditional boarding schools frequently feature smaller classes and many have facilities that are superior to those of local options. Traditional boarding schools pride themselves on the number of their students who are admitted to top tier colleges and universities.

Students choose boarding schools for many good reasons: some are looking for broader curricular options, a greater variety of courses; some want a wider variety of extra-curriculars, sports or activities that aren't available locally; some students benefit from structure and supervision and from the interaction with caring faculty mentors; some students like the idea of a close knit group of friends with whom they share interests and passions. Whatever the reason, the choice of the appropriate boarding school from amidst the many options is an important one. A competent, ethical educational consultant--in addition to recommending schools that are a good match--can make the application process more pleasant.

In visiting boarding schools across the country over the years, David has spoken to admissions directors, heads of schools, teachers, coaches and students. After meeting with your son or daughter and analyzing transcripts, learning about the student's passions, strengths, interests and learning style, and talking with parents, he can help with choosing and applying to boarding schools. Most importantly, David knows the truth about admission to boarding school--which schools are most competitive, which schools will consider an application after the admissions deadlines have passed. In short, he can help your family pick the most appropriate school for your student--at the most competitive, most unconventional, most nurturing, most art focused or most athletic school in the country.