Resources
Helpful Resources
The following organizations and resources may be helpful to families navigating mental health, substance use, and therapeutic placement. This is not an exhaustive list — but it is a starting point.
Therapeutic Placement
NATSAP — National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs
Primary professional organization for therapeutic schools and programs. Sets membership standards including accreditation requirements.
NATSAP Outcomes & Evaluation Report
Outcome and evaluation data published by NATSAP for member programs. January 2025.
IECA — Independent Educational Consultants Association
Professional association for independent educational consultants. Dr. Cohen is a member.
Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Research Cooperative
Research and outcome data on Outdoor Behavioral Health programs.
Mental Health
American Psychological Association (APA)
Maryland Psychological Association
NAMI — National Alliance on Mental Illness
National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health
OCD Foundation
Tourette Association of America
Substance Use & Recovery
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Al-Anon and Alateen
Support for families and friends. Alateen for younger family members.
Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
SMART Recovery
Science-based alternative to 12-step programs.
LifeRing Recovery
Secular, abstinence-based peer support.
Crisis Support
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988lifeline.org — Call or text 988
Free, confidential, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Research and Outcomes
Dr. Cohen maintains a collection of research and outcome reports on therapeutic programs. Click below to access them directly.
Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Research Cooperative
Peer-reviewed research on Outdoor Behavioral Health programs. A good starting point for families wanting to understand the evidence base.