Sue Scheff (P.U.R.E.) A Parent's True Story

Sue Scheff: Are you a parent at risk with a teen that is struggling?

2009-05-01T06:45:00.000-07:00

For many that have read my book - Wit's End! (Published by Health Communications Inc.) - which give my experiences with WWASPS and my daughters experiences with Carolina Springs Academy, it is a wake up call for all parents that are at their wit's end and desperately looking for help for their struggling teenager.

Are you worried or concerned about your teens recent behavior? Do you believe it is time for outside help? Local therapy is not working?

Visit my organization, Parents Universal Resource Experts, that I created to help educate you on researching for safe and quality alternatives for your family.

Are you considering these:

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (CLOSED)
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Casa By the Sea, Mexico (CLOSED)
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor)
Darrington Academy, GA (CLOSED)
**Discovery, Mexico - see below
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Gulf Coast Academy, MS (CLOSED)
Horizon Academy, NV
Jane Hawley - Lifelines Family Services
Kathy Allred - Lifeline Sales Representative
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen) and Teens in Crisis
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs) Jane Hawley
Mark Peterson - Teen Help Sales Representative
Majestic Ranch, UT
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here)
Parent Teen Guide (Promotes and markets these programs)
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Respect Academy, NV
Royal Gorge Academy, CO (CLOSED)
Sherri Schwartzman - Lifelines Sales Representative
Sky View Academy, NV (allegedly closed?)
Spring Creek Lodge, MT (CLOSED) Rumors they have re-opened in another area of MT.
Teen Help, UT (Promotes and markets these programs)
Teens In Crisis (Lisa Irvin)
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica
Oceanside, CA - rumors of short term program there.
**There is a rumor a new program in Mexico is opening - parents need to be aware of this. It is believed they have re-opened Casa By the Sea with another name. Another rumor that was heard is that Jade Robinson is running this program. He is from the debunk Academy at Ivy Ridge.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK.

Sue Scheff: CAROLINA SPRINGS ACADEMY - LEARN MORE

2009-04-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

It has been almost 10 years since I made the horrible mistake of choosing Carolina Springs Academy for my daughter who was struggling. Good kid making some not so good choices? I felt she needed some sort of program to help her through her struggles - and sadly what we received was anything but help.

In the past 9+ years - I have successfully defeated WWASPS/Carolina Springs Academy through a jury trial as well as continuing to be a voice for parents that are at their wit's end. I also won the landmark case ($11.3M Jury Verdict for Damages) for Internet Defamation and Invasion of Privacy done to my by a former WWASPS parent that defamed me online.

Read more about that in my upcoming book.If you are considering a Teen Help Program - take your time, do your homework - learn from my mistakes and gain from my knowledge.Read Wit's End and hear my daughter's firsthand experiences. This is my first book published by Health Communications, Inc. (HCI) - the home of Chicken Soup for the Soul.

Don't be a parent in denial - don't be afraid to give your teen a second chance at a bright future - there are many good programs, just take your time and do your research.

Learn more at http://www.helpyourteens.com/.

Sue Scheff - Teen Help

2009-03-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

Are you a parent struggling with a teen today? Are you at your wit's end? Troubled by the defiance and negative behavior your teen is displaying?

Lack respect for authority - for YOU -the parent?

Know you are not alone!

Almost a decade ago I went the very same feelings of isolation, hostage to my own home and watching my good teen turn into a person I hardly recognized! Read the online story of A Parent's True Story.I created P.U.R.E. (Parents' Universal Resource Experts, Inc.) in hopes of helping other parents learn from my mistakes and gain from my knowledge.

I was almost silenced when the massive organization (WWASPS/Carolina Springs Academy) sued me - but I fought back and the truth prevailed.

I won all legal actions!When they lost on all counts including in the Supreme Court (I had a jury trial victory) my next hurdle was defeating the negative Internet Slander and Defamation.You see, when you can't defeat someone legally - the Internet has become the next legal lethal weapon.Again, I fought back - only this time I won an unprecedented jury verdict of damages for over $11M!

So, when you see ugly postings about me - twisted truths and outright lies, understand I will always have critics that don't agree with me as well as those that want to silence me or discredit me, but I continued to fight back and continued to be victorious on all counts.

Read Wit's End and look for my new book coming out in the fall of 2009 which will focus on this new legal lethal weapon.

Sue Scheff - Residential Therapy - Teen Help - Learn More

2009-02-14T06:54:00.001-08:00

If you are debating residential therapy for your teen, learn more about this extremely daunting and confusing industry.

Yes, you need to get help - but educate yourself first.Learn more about Wit's End at http://www.witsendbook.com/ and author Sue Scheff at http://www.suescheff.com/ -the response has been overwhelming!

If you are struggling with your teen today - pick up Wit's End and learn more!

For a quick read, check out http://www.aparentstruestory.com/ - the foundation of Wit's End!

Sue Scheff: Parenting Blogs

2009-01-23T15:01:00.000-08:00

Recently I am noticing more and more parents are stepping up and talking about their issues, concerns, frustrations as well as sharing ideas and tips they have used in raising their children. All in all, it is about parents helping parents.Years ago when I struggled with my daughter, I felt so alone - and it was such a hush hush mentality. We were all so determined to prove our kids were nearly perfect! Oh, so smart and athletic or gifted and talented in some way. In today’s generation of raising children it is become more challenging.

Here are a few Blogs on Parenting that could help you help your child:

Van’s Mom - Exploring and dealing with an ADHD and ODD daughter.
Tangerine Times - Myrna’s parenting tips on the sweet and sour times of teens.
Phil’s Blog - Why physical education is so critical to children today in highly techy times.
Inhalant Abuse Blog - Parents educate other parents on the dangers of many home products.
Love Our Children Blog - Helping keep today’s children safe.
Sarah Maria’s Blog - Learning to increase your self image to make better choices. (For parents and teens!)
Lori Hanson’s Blog - Holistic solutions for a eating disorders.
ADD/ADHD Blog - ADDitude Magazine offers many parent Blogs on ADD/ADHD and more.
Safe Teen Driving Club - Learn more about teen driving safety tips.

Sue Scheff - 2009 A Parent's True Story - Still Helping Thousands of Families!

2009-01-02T07:14:00.001-08:00

Are you a parent struggling with a teen today? Are you at your wit's end? Troubled by the defiance and negative behavior your teen is displaying? Lack respect for authority - for YOU -the parent?Know you are not alone!

Almost a decade ago I went the very same feelings of isolation, hostage to my own home and watching my good teen turn into a person I hardly recognized! Read the online story of A Parent's True Story.I created P.U.R.E. (Parents' Universal Resource Experts, Inc.) in hopes of helping other parents learn from my mistakes and gain from my knowledge.

I was almost silenced when the massive organization (WWASPS/Carolina Springs Academy) sued me - but I fought back and the truth prevailed. I won all legal actions!

When they lost on all counts including in the Supreme Court (I had a jury trial victory) my next hurdle was defeating the negative Internet Slander and Defamation. You see, when you can't defeat someone legally - the Internet has become the next legal lethal weapon.

Again, I fought back - only this time I won an unprecedented jury verdict of damages for over $11M!

So, when you see ugly postings about me - twisted truths and outright lies, understand I will always have critics that don't agree with me as well as those that want to silence me or discredit me, but I continued to fight back and continued to be victorious on all counts.

Read Wit's End and look for my new book coming out in the fall of 2009 which will focus on this new legal lethal weapon.

Carolina Springs Academy - Lisa Ivin - HelpMyTeen - Teen Help - Learn from my mistakes! by Sue Scheff

2008-11-14T11:35:00.000-08:00

Are you considering any of the following programs for your child? Take a moment to read my experiences - http://www.aparentstruestory.com/ as well as my book where you can hear my daughter's experiences for the first time - order today at http://www.witsendbook.com/ .

Choosing a program is not only a huge emotional decision, it is a major financial decision - do your homework! Learn from my mistakes - Gain from my knowledge!

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Ally Schools - Marketing Arm - Jane Hawley
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor)
Darrington Academy, GA
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Horizon Academy, NV
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen)
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs) Jane Hawley
Mark Peterson - Teen Help Marketing Arm
Majestic Ranch, UT
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here)
Parent Teen Guide (Promotes and markets these programs)
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Respect Academy, NV
Royal Gorge Academy, CO (recently closed)
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Teen Help, UT (Promotes and markets these programs)
Teens In Crisis
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica
Alert - rumor is that a new program is Mexico is opening soon.
ALERT - It is also rumored that there is a short-term program in or near Oceanside, CA - which may be connected with this organization.

Visit http://www.helpyourteens.com/ for more information.

Sue Scheff: On Your Time with Kim Iverson

2008-11-11T06:20:00.001-08:00

Sue Scheff talks with Talk Show Radio Host, Kim Iverson about her new book, Wit's End! and her experiences with her own teen as well as helping to educate parents on today's teens. Learn from my mistakes - gain from my knowledge.

Wit's Ends details her experiences with Carolina Springs Academy and WWASPS - take a moment to review http://www.aparentstruestory.com/ - and learn more. Especially if you are considering residential therapy.

Sue Scheff Talks to Global Talk Radio - Parents learn more

2008-11-02T06:21:00.001-08:00

Valerie Connelly speaks with Sue Scheff about her book, Wit's End "Resources for Saving Your OUT-OF-CONTROL TEEN," and Kathleen Duey, about her book, "My Animal Family." Also, Ramona Rubio joins to discuss her book, "The Alchemical Woman."
Listen here: http://www.globaltalkradio.com/shows/callingallauthors/

Lisa Irvin, Jane Hawley, HelpMyTeen, Ally Schools, Carolina Springs Academy, Midwest Academy, Darrington Academy, Respect Academy, Royal Gorge Academy

2008-10-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

Are you considering any of the following programs for your child? Take a moment to read my experiences - http://www.aparentstruestory.com/ as well as my book where you can hear my daughter's experiences for the first time - order today at http://www.witsendbook.com/ .

Choosing a program is not only a huge emotional decision, it is a major financial decision - do your homework! Learn from my mistakes - Gain from my knowledge!

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Ally Schools - Marketing Arm - Jane Hawley
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor)
Darrington Academy, GA
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Horizon Academy, NV
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen)
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs) Jane Hawley
Majestic Ranch, UT
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here)
Parent Teen Guide (Promotes and markets these programs)
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Respect Academy, NV
Royal Gorge Academy, CO
Sky View Academy, NV
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Teen Help, UT (Promotes and markets these programs)
Teens In Crisis
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica
Alert - rumor is that a new program is Mexico is opening soon.
ALERT - It is also rumored that there is a short-term program in or near Oceanside, CA - which may be connected with this organization.

Visit www.helpyourteens.com for more information.

Sue Scheff talks about Wit's End on Walking on Air

2008-10-07T05:42:00.001-07:00

Betsy Brint and Sally Higginson are wives, mothers, sisters and friends. The two live five blocks from one another. Betsy is the mother of three; Sally is the mother of two. Their husbands are friends as well as brothers-in law. A large percentage of the time, Betsy and Sally consider themselves happily married. The remaining small percentage of time makes for lively radio.

Visit http://www.walkingonair.org/index.htm to listen and pick-up helpful tips on life today with families and parenting!

Sue Scheff: A Parent's True Story - Wit's End!

2008-09-24T12:20:00.001-07:00

With peer pressure and social influences at all-time highs, many good teens are making bad choices, placing intense emotional and financial strain on parents and families. Lack of motivation, substance abuse, negative peers and gang affiliation are just some of the common challenges facing kids today.

To help address these and other issues, parent advocate Sue Scheff has announced the release of her new book, “Wit’s End: Advice and Resources for Saving Your Out-of-Control Teen.”

Scheff’s book chronicles her painful journey with a struggling teenage daughter and also offers advice, resources and help to mothers and fathers forced to make tough choices regarding their children.

“In the MySpace generation, kids are under more pressure than ever before,” says Scheff, author and founder of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts (P.U.R.E.), an organization that assists families with at-risk children.

“This book will be an invaluable resource and allow parents to learn from my past mistakes,” she adds.

As a single mother in the ‘90s, Scheff struggled to raise her teen daughter, who embraced disturbing friends, beliefs and behaviors. Ultimately, Scheff was forced to utilize a residential treatment facility as a way to instill discipline and structure.

What happened next was chilling -- stories of beatings, sexual abuse, forced starvation and neglect all surfaced from the very facility that was supposed to be protecting and rehabilitating Scheff’s daughter.

In the years following her ordeal, Scheff championed for safe alternatives for at-risk teens and began helping other parents who were facing similar challenges as she once did.

Published by Health Communications, Inc., “Wit’s End” is an extension of the assistance Scheff has been able to provide to families over the years.

“Parents need to know that they’re not alone,” says Scheff. “This book is a much-needed guide to avoid the pitfalls and will ultimately help expedite the healing process.”

For more information, visit http://www.witsendbook.com/.

About the Author
Sue Scheff is the founder of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts (http://www.helpyourteens.com/) and is a sought-after interviewee and speaker on topics such as Internet abuse, struggling teens, cyberbullying and defamation. She has been featured on 20/20, CNN Headline News, ABC News, Fox News, The Rachael Ray Show, Lifetime Television, NPR, BBC Talk Radio and has appeared in the USA Today, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Miami Herald and San Francisco Chronicle.

Sue Scheff - Shares Her Story and Mistakes as a Parent

2008-09-15T06:29:00.000-07:00

Weston, Florida - Parent Sue Scheff knows all too well the frustrations of dealing with a troubled teen. Being a single mom was tough, but as daughter Ashlyn reached her teenage years, the problems became too much to handle. Bad decisions and difficult situations left Sue Scheff with no choice but to look to outside help for her troubled teen and salvation for strained family.What she didn’t know continues to haunt her. Seven years after her devastating travels through the teen help industry,Sue Scheff has become an advocate for safe alternatives and parent education. Through her organization, Parents Universal Resource Experts, Scheff has helped numerous families safely and successfully find help.

Lori Rubenstein - Life Coach

http://www.daretotranscend.com/
http://www.transcendingdivorce.com/

"Leap, and the net will appear!" Julia CameronListen to my new Radio Show, Journeys from the Heart...

Here's Help featured Sue Scheff on Wit's End!

2008-09-06T13:50:00.001-07:00

I was honored to be a guest on the Y-100 Here's Help Radio Show talking about my new book, Wit's End! as well as parenting teens today.

About Here's Help, Inc.

Founded in 1968, Here’s Help has become one of Miami-Dade County’s premiere providers of residential and outpatient substance abuse treatment, annually serving 800 adolescents and young adults starting at the age of 13. Funded by local, state and federal contracts, Here’s Help has excelled as a substance abuse treatment provider and is lauded by the Departments of Corrections, Department of Juvenile Justice, Department of Children and Families (DCF), and Probation and Parole for its treatment, educational and preventive services.
Learn more at http://www.helpfl.com/ .

Sue Scheff on ABC News talks about Wit's End!

2008-08-29T11:02:00.001-07:00

What a great experience to share my book, Wit's End! and story with Lisa Hayward at ABC News in West Palm Beach!

My voice will continue to help and education parents to learn from my mistakes and gain from my knowledge!

A Mother and Daughter's True Story - Wit's End! - Advice and Resources for Saving Your Out of Control Teen

2008-08-18T08:08:00.000-07:00

Learn more about Wit's End at www.witsendbook.com and author Sue Scheff at www.suescheff.com -the response has been overwhelming! If you are struggling with your teen today - pick up Wit's End and learn more!

Carolina Springs Academy, Darrington Academy, Horizon Academy, Midwest Academy, Teen Help, Teens in Crisis, Lisa Irvin, Jane Hawley, WWASPS etc...

2008-08-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

Are you considering any of the following programs for your child? Take a moment to read my experiences - http://www.aparentstruestory.com/ as well as my book where you can hear my daughter's experiences for the first time - order today at http://www.witsendbook.com/ .

Choosing a program is not only a huge emotional decision, it is a major financial decision - do your homework! Learn from my mistakes - Gain from my knowledge!

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor)
Darrington Academy, GA
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Horizon Academy, NV
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen)
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs) Jane Hawley
Majestic Ranch, UT
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here)
Parent Teen Guide (Promotes and markets these programs)
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Royal Gorge Academy, CO
Sky View Academy, NV
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Teen Help, UT (Promotes and markets these programs)
Teens In Crisis
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica
It is rumored a new program in Mexico is opening soon.

Visit www.helpyourteens.com for more information.

A Parent's True Story - Wit's End! By Sue Scheff - on Lifetime Channel

2008-07-30T08:56:00.001-07:00

What a great opportunity to showcase my new parenting book, Wit's End!

Today Kristin Stattel, Author and Youth Advocate, and myself were featured on The Balancing Act - a Lifetime Television Series.

Speaking of my new book, Wit’s End! on this segment, Kristin also shared some of her experiences when she was struggling during her youth years. Her upcoming book, It’s All Good! will help teens to better understand the pressures of today’s society and give them inspiration and hope. Kristin is an amazing young adult who spends her time giving back to others as well as going to college. She is a mentor to so many youths!

Sue Scheff, "Learn From My Mistakes When I was At My Wit's End!"

2008-07-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

Help for Parents of Out-of-control Teens
Resources to help families in this critical time

(SOUTH FLORIDA)—In 2000, a teenager at a residential treatment center was locked-up in an isolation box for 17 hours with no windows, heat or air conditioning because she had tried to help a girl who was having a seizure. Later, that same teenager got food poisoning and was rushed to the ER (unbeknownst to her mother) because sewage had contaminated the food she was eating and sunk into the carpet of the living areas.

These are just some of the experiences that Sue Scheff’s daughter, Ashlyn, experienced while enrolled in a residential treatment program, supposed to be helping her cope with emotional and behavioral problems while building up her self-esteem. Furious about how Ashlyn had been treated, Scheff posted her experiences online about the program and was promptly sued for libel. Scheff won by a long shot.

Now parents can read Scheff’s story and learn from her mistakes in Wit’s End: Advice and Resources for Saving Your OUT-OF-CONTROL TEEN (HCI Books, July 2008). The book is the result of her years of effort to educate parents and provide them with the proper resources to care for their own difficult teen.

“I was desperate to find good help for my daughter, but this program ended up making things worse,” says Scheff. “My book provides positive, prescriptive help for families who want to put their children on the road to a safe, healthy adulthood. It is imperative parents do their homework and Wit’s End can offer a convenient outline to get them started.”

Parents doing their homework becomes even more important in light of a 2007 study released by the U.S. Government Accountability Office which uncovered thousands of allegations of abuse, some of which involved death, at residential treatment programs across the country and in American-owned and American-operated facilities abroad between the years 1990 and 2007.

For parents who need one-on-one guidance, Scheff founded Parents’ Universal Resource Experts (P.U.R.E.), an advocacy group that not only researches residential treatment centers and other teen help programs around the world, but helps educate parents to choose which facilities are best suited to match their child’s needs.

Sue Scheff is a parent advocate and the founder of Parent’s Universal Resource Experts, Inc. She has been featured in numerous publications and broadcasts, including: 20/20, The Rachel Ray Show, ABC News, CBC News: Sunday Morning, CNN Headline News, Fox News, BBC Talk Radio, National Public Radio and The New York Times.

For more information, please visit http://www.suescheff.com/ or http://www.helpyourteens.com/

Are You Considering Residential Therapy for your Teen? Do your research!

2008-07-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

If you are considering residential treatment for your child - be sure to read through this Blog - it will be very enligthening and help educate you on a loosely regulated industry - "teen help."

Be sure to take time to read www.aparentstruestory.com and order "Wit's End!" today.

Wit's End! Featured on Miami DayBreak

2008-07-15T13:56:00.001-07:00

What a great show - Miami DayBreak featured my new book "Wit's End!" and helped bring awareness to a very daunting teen help industry. Stay tuned as the show is added to my Podcast Website.

Sue Scheff Launches Wit's End!

2008-07-12T06:05:00.001-07:00

From the same publishers that brought you the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, now offers you "Wit's End!"

My story if filled with inspiration and hope as well as offers parents and people that work with today's pre-teens and teens, advice and resources for today's struggling teens.

The response has been overwhelming since we launched the book!

I am very proud of my daughter who spoke for the first time publicly in Wit's End! Hear her story of what she endured at Carolina Springs Academy.

Most importantly- learn from our mistakes so you don't make the same ones.

SUE SCHEFF - STOP - THINK - LEARN FROM MY MISTAKES, GAIN FROM MY KNOWLEDGE

2008-07-09T06:24:00.001-07:00

Are you considering any of the following programs for your child? Take a moment to read my experiences - www.aparentstruestory.com as well as my book where you can hear my daughter's experiences for the first time - order today at www.witsendbook.com .

Choosing a program is not only a huge emotional decision, it is a major financial decision - do your homework! Learn from my mistakes - Gain from my knowledge!

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor)
Darrington Academy, GA
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Horizon Academy, NV
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen)
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs) Jane Hawley
Majestic Ranch, UT
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here)
Parent Teen Guide (Promotes and markets these programs)
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Royal Gorge Academy, CO
Sky View Academy, NV
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Teen Help, UT (Promotes and markets these programs)
Teens In Crisis
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica

Sue Scheff - Parent Advocate - Voice Against Internet Slander

2008-07-03T13:57:00.001-07:00

Sue Scheff is a parent advocate who founded Parents’ Universal Resources Experts, Inc. (P.U.R.E.) in 2001. She has been featured on 20/20, The Rachel Ray Show, ABC News, Canadian CBC Sunday News Magazine, CNN Headline News, Fox News, BBC Talk Radio, and NPR, discussing topics of Internet defamation as well as her work helping troubled teens and their families through her organization.

To learn more about P.U.R.E. http://www.helpyourteens.com/ and to contact the author, visit http://www.suescheff.com/.

I defeated the one of the largest teen help programs (WWASPS aka Carolina Springs Academy) in both a jury trial and the Supreme Court of Appeals. I went on to win one of the largest jury verdicts of $11.3M for damages done to me on the Internet.I have fought back and won! My book "Wit's End!" is now available.

SUE SCHEFF - LIVE ON PURPOSE RADIO - WIT'S END

2008-06-27T05:47:00.001-07:00

From: Dr. Paul Jenkins

Hello Parents!

Thanks to all of you who were on our call today. We had Sue Scheff on as our guest, who shared some remarkable resources and her personal story about dealing with her out-of-control teen daughter. You just may want to save a copy of today’s call for future reference, or to share with people you know who might be dealing with this right now. Our association with each other is one of our greatest resources – thank you for being part of this community of parents!

Visit http://www.parentalpower.wordpress.com/ to pick up the audio content – we are getting close to having this available through iTunes so you can just subscribe and get it automatically. Stay tuned.

http://parentalpower.wordpress.com/2008/06/24/sue-scheff-at-wits-end/

Sue Scheff: Teen Help - Use Caution

2008-06-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

If you are considering residential treatment for your child - be sure to read through this Blog - it will be very enligthening and help educate you on a loosely regulated industry - "teen help."

Be sure to take time to read http://www.aparentstruestory.com/ and order "Wit's End!" today.

Carolina Springs Academy, Darrington Academy, Midwest Academy, WWASPS, Lisa Irvin, Red River Academy, Horizon Academy, etc....

2008-06-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

Are you considering any of the following programs for your child? Take a moment to read my experiences - http://www.aparentstruestory.com/ as well as my book where you can hear my daughter's experiences for the first time - order today at http://www.witsendbook.com/ .

Choosing a program is not only a huge emotional decision, it is a major financial decision - do your homework!

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor)
Darrington Academy, GA
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Horizon Academy, NV
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen)
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs) Jane Hawley
Majestic Ranch, UT
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here)
Parent Teen Guide (Promotes and markets these programs)
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Royal Gorge Academy, CO
Sky View Academy, NV
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Teen Help, UT (Promotes and markets these programs)
Teens In Crisis
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica

Wit's End! by Sue Scheff - A Must read for all parents with struggling teens

2008-06-07T10:04:00.000-07:00

Help for Parents of Out-of-control Teens
Resources to help families in this critical time

(SOUTH FLORIDA)—In 2000, a teenager at a residential treatment center was locked-up in an isolation box for 17 hours with no windows, heat or air conditioning because she had tried to help a girl who was having a seizure. Later, that same teenager got food poisoning and was rushed to the ER (unbeknownst to her mother) because sewage had contaminated the food she was eating and sunk into the carpet of the living areas.

These are just some of the experiences that Sue Scheff’s daughter, Ashlyn, experienced while enrolled in a residential treatment program, supposed to be helping her cope with emotional and behavioral problems while building up her self-esteem. Furious about how Ashlyn had been treated, Scheff posted her experiences online about the program and was promptly sued for libel. Scheff won by a long shot.

Now parents can read Scheff’s story and learn from her mistakes in Wit’s End: Advice and Resources for Saving Your OUT-OF-CONTROL TEEN (HCI Books, July 2008). The book is the result of her years of effort to educate parents and provide them with the proper resources to care for their own difficult teen.

“I was desperate to find good help for my daughter, but this program ended up making things worse,” says Scheff. “My book provides positive, prescriptive help for families who want to put their children on the road to a safe, healthy adulthood. It is imperative parents do their homework and Wit’s End can offer a convenient outline to get them started.”

Parents doing their homework becomes even more important in light of a 2007 study released by the U.S. Government Accountability Office which uncovered thousands of allegations of abuse, some of which involved death, at residential treatment programs across the country and in American-owned and American-operated facilities abroad between the years 1990 and 2007.

For parents who need one-on-one guidance, Scheff founded Parents’ Universal Resource Experts (P.U.R.E.), an advocacy group that not only researches residential treatment centers and other teen help programs around the world, but helps educate parents to choose which facilities are best suited to match their child’s needs.

Sue Scheff is a parent advocate and the founder of Parent’s Universal Resource Experts, Inc. She has been featured in numerous publications and broadcasts, including: 20/20, The Rachel Ray Show, ABC News, CBC News: Sunday Morning, CNN Headline News, Fox News, BBC Talk Radio, National Public Radio and The New York Times.

For more information, please visit http://www.suescheff.com/ or http://www.helpyourteens.com/

Sue Scheff - Wit's End! - How Carolina Springs Misrepresented Us and Harmed my Daughter

2008-06-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

Visit www.aparentstruestory.com and read more about our experiences in the WWASPS facility. To hear my daughter's voice for the first time, order our book online today at www.witsendbook.com - you will receive it shortly.

Carolina Springs Academy, Midwest Academy, Darrington Academy, Teen Help, Royal Gorge Academy, Red River Academy, Lisa Irvin, Spring Creek Lodge....

2008-05-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

If you are considering residential treatment for your child - be sure to read through this Blog - it will be very enligthening and help educate you on a loosely regulated industry - "teen help."

Carolina Springs Academy, Darrington Academy, Midwest Academy, Red River Academy, Horizon Academy, Lisa Irvin, HelpMyTeen, etc....

2008-05-24T05:51:00.000-07:00

Are you considering any of the following programs for your child? Take a moment to read my experiences - http://www.aparentstruestory.com/ as well as my book where you can hear my daughter's experiences for the first time - order today at http://www.witsendbook.com/ .

Choosing a program is not only a huge emotional decision, it is a major financial decision - do your homework!

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor)
Darrington Academy, GA
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Horizon Academy, NV
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen)
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs) Jane Hawley
Majestic Ranch, UT
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here)
Parent Teen Guide (Promotes and markets these programs)
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Royal Gorge Academy, CO
Sky View Academy, NV
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Teen Help, UT (Promotes and markets these programs)
Teens In Crisis
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica

Carolina Springs Academy (WWASPS) Sue Scheff, A Mother and Daughter's True Story

2008-05-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

"Wit's End!" A Mother and Daughter's True Story by Sue Scheff

2008-05-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

"Wit's End!" is now available with my daughter's voice finally being heard of her experiences at Carolina Springs Academy. Order today at http://www.witsendbook.com/ and you will receive it shortly. "Wit's End!" will be in all book stores in July, so order the early release today!

Sue Scheff - A Parent's True Story - Parents Universal Resource Experts

2008-05-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

P.U.R.E. is based on reality - especially with today's teen society of technology including MySpace and other Internet concerns for children. Today we are educating children at much younger ages about substance abuse, sex, and more. The latest wave of music and lyrics, television, and movies help to contribute to generate a new spin on this age group. This leads to new areas of concern for parents.

We recognize that each family is different with a variety of needs. P.U.R.E. believes in creating Parent Awareness to help you become an educated parent in the teen help industry. We will give you a feeling of comfort in a situation that can be confusing, stressful, frustrating, and sometimes desperate.

Desperate? Confused? Stressed? Anxious? Helplessness? Frustrated? Scared? Exhausted? Fearful? Alone? Drained? Hopelessness? Out of Control? At Wit's End?...

http://www.helpyourteens.com/
http://www.witsendbook.com/
http://www.suescheff.com/

Sue Scheff - A Parents True Story

2008-05-04T13:13:00.000-07:00

Click here to read more.

Our story has been read by thousands of families since I posted it years ago. I have been through litigation and proved my story is our experiences. I fought back as I have been maliciously attacked online and won an unprecedented jury verdict for damages of over $11M! My daughter and I are fighters - that is how she endured Carolina Springs Academy and I endured 5 years of litigation victoriously!

Sue Scheff - Parent Advocate - Order Book Today!

2008-05-03T13:05:00.001-07:00

Visit www.witsendbook.com and you can get your copy! Are you struggling with your teen? This is a must read for any parent with an at risk teen or pre-teen. Help yourself to help your child. Learn from my mistakes - gain from my knowledge.

Sue Scheff - Wit's End is Almost Here - A Mother and Daughter's Experience at Carolina Springs Academy - Learn from Our Mistakes

2008-05-01T09:25:00.001-07:00

CAROLINA SPRINGS ACADEMY READ MORE ABOUT IT BY SUE SCHEFF

2008-04-29T12:16:00.001-07:00

Amazing, it is almost 4 years since I defeated WWASPS in a jury trial in August 2004 and I still hear they are telling parents the jury made a mistake or some parents have told me their sales rep told them I lost? Strange - I have 100% legal documents proving my victories as well as winning an unprecedented jury verdict for damages of $11.3M from a defendant that received monies from WWASPS.

Are you considering the following schools or programs? I would never tell a parent what to do -but I do encourage you to do your homework. My story can give you insight to the desperation I felt, the mistakes I made and hopefully you will gain from the bumps I made.

As of May 2006, it is believed that WWASP aka WWASPS or Premier Educational Systems has affiliations with the following:

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (Recently withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor
Darrington Academy, GA
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Horizon Academy, NV
Jane Hawley (Lifelines)
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs).
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen)
Majestic Ranch, UT
Mark Peterson (Teen Help)
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here).
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Royal Gorge Academy, CO
Sky View Academy, NV
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica

On June 6, 2006 WWASPS LOST again in the Supreme Court of Appeals - Sue Scheff’s victory speaks for so many children and parents that were victims of WWASPS.

My book - Wit’s End! will feature for the first time my daughter’s voice - her story told firsthand. Wit’s End is our journey as well as a valuable resource book to help you not to make the mistakes we did.

By Sue Scheff, Parents Universal Resource Experts

Posted by Sue Scheff at 11:34 AM
Labels: at risk teens, Carolina Springs Academy, Darrington Academy, Jane Hawley, Lisa Irvin, Mark Peterson, Parents Universal Resource Experts, Sue Scheff, Teen Help, WWASP, WWASPS
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Carolina Springs Academy - "A Parent's True Story" and Must Read for any Parent Considering CSA

My true story is based on our experiences (my daughter and myself) with Carolina Springs Academy in Due West, SC.It seems that Carolina Springs Academy representatives are telling parents that my story is false and I lost in a lawsuit with them.

This continues in their pattern of misrepresentation in my opinion.I not only defeated them in a jury trial - I went on to defeat them in the Supreme Court of Appeals when they tried to appeal it!Click here for more details.

Wit's End! coming soon - will give you our story, with my daughter's voice of her experiences at CSA.

Sue Scheff Founder of Parents' Universal Resource Experts

2008-04-25T10:36:00.001-07:00

My first book - "Wit's End!" will be released very shortly. It is not only a journey of what my daughter and I went through during her adolescents, it will offer parents and others that work with today's teens hope and inspiration.

I have become a voice in this so-called industry of teen-help and I am proud to say we have helped thousands of families at www.helpyourteens.com .

Making mistakes is part of life, but using your mistakes to help others is what matters most.

Carolina Springs Academy, Darrington Academy, Lisa Irvin, HelpMyTeen, Jane Hawley, LifeLines, Mark Peterson, Teen Help, WWASPS, WWASP etc....

2008-04-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

Are you struggling with your teen or pre-teen? Considering outside treatment?

Take a moment to read "A Parent's True Story" and soon you can purchase "Wit's End!" which is where many parents feel when they are desperate with today's kids.

Sue Scheff - Parent Advocate

2008-04-18T11:20:00.000-07:00

Check out my Blog on articles covering parenting, cyber safety and more.

Carolina Springs Academy - Read More About it by Sue Scheff

2008-04-12T11:34:00.000-07:00

Amazing, it is almost 4 years since I defeated WWASPS in a jury trial in August 2004 and I still hear they are telling parents the jury made a mistake or some parents have told me their sales rep told them I lost? Strange - I have 100% legal documents proving my victories as well as winning an unprecedented jury verdict for damages of $11.3M from a defendant that received monies from WWASPS.

Are you considering the following schools or programs? I would never tell a parent what to do -but I do encourage you to do your homework. My story can give you insight to the desperation I felt, the mistakes I made and hopefully you will gain from the bumps I made.

As of May 2006, it is believed that WWASP aka WWASPS or Premier Educational Systems has affiliations with the following:

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (Recently withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor
Darrington Academy, GA
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs.
Horizon Academy, NV
Jane Hawley (Lifelines)
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs).
Lisa Irvin (Helpmyteen)
Majestic Ranch, UT
Mark Peterson (Teen Help)
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here).
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Royal Gorge Academy, CO
Sky View Academy, NV
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica

On June 6, 2006 WWASPS LOST again in the Supreme Court of Appeals - Sue Scheff’s victory speaks for so many children and parents that were victims of WWASPS.

My book - Wit’s End! will feature for the first time my daughter’s voice - her story told firsthand. Wit’s End is our journey as well as a valuable resource book to help you not to make the mistakes we did.

By Sue Scheff, Parents Universal Resource Experts

Carolina Springs Academy - "A Parent's True Story" and Must Read for any Parent Considering CSA

2008-04-01T06:54:00.000-07:00

My true story is based on our experiences (my daughter and myself) with Carolina Springs Academy in Due West, SC.It seems that Carolina Springs Academy representatives are telling parents that my story is false and I lost in a lawsuit with them.

This continues in their pattern of misrepresentation in my opinion.I not only defeated them in a jury trial - I went on to defeat them in the Supreme Court of Appeals when they tried to appeal it!Click here for more details.

Wit's End! coming soon - will give you our story, with my daughter's voice of her experiences at CSA.

Sue Scheff and Parents Universal Resource Experts DEFEATS WWASPS in a Jury Trial

2008-03-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

Carolina Springs Academy - Sue Scheff - A Thorn in WWASPS Side

2008-03-18T11:12:00.000-07:00

For those of you that don’t know my story - it all began when I was struggling with my daughter through her teenage years.

After placing her in an abusive environment - in my daughter’s experiences - (Carolina Springs Academy) - thinking I was going to get help - quite the opposite happened.

Litigation followed - I won victoriously, not once but 3 times. I defeated WWASPS aka Carolina Springs Academy in August 2004 in a jury trial in their home state of Utah. I further defeated them in the Supreme Court of Appeals in June 2006. In September 2006 I won an unprecedented jury verdict for damages of $11.3M!

Teen Help Sales Reps, such as Mark Peterson, Lisa Irvin, Jane Hawley and many others (their marketing is second to none in my opinion) continues to attempt to discredit my victories as well as my experiences. I guess you can call this Spin -They certainly are creative in spinning the story to fit their needs. Several months ago - I was actually contacted by a former employee of Carolina Springs Academy - this person told me that many of the staff have no clue I won, and this person told me so much more is still going on. But due to fear, people are silenced.
I wasn’t silenced - my story is here - and a jury heard it and I won.

My book - Wit’s End! - which is being published by the same people that brought you the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, will not only share our experiences at Carolina Springs Academy - it will give you hope and inspiration if you are struggling with your teen today. People will hear my daughter’s voice for the first time since her time in Carolina Springs Academy.

For more information - Click Here.

Sue Scheff: A Parent's True Story - Wit's End!

2008-03-16T15:54:00.000-07:00

Wit's End - An inspirational and informational resource book for any that works with today's teens and pre-teens.

Our book will be released in 2008 and will not only journey a struggling teenager it will give others hope and encouragement. Wit's End will be a resource book for parents and others that work with today's teens and adolescents.

Sue Scheff talks about Carolina Springs Academy

2008-03-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

My true story is based on our experiences (my daughter and myself) with Carolina Springs Academy in Due West, SC.

It seems that Carolina Springs Academy representatives are telling parents that my story is false and I lost in a lawsuit with them.

This continues in their pattern of misrepresentation in my opinion.I not only defeated them in a jury trial - I went on to defeat them in the Supreme Court of Appeals when they tried to appeal it!Click here for more details.

Wit's End! coming soon - will give you our story, with my daughter's voice of her experiences at CSA.

Sue Scheff: A Parent's True Story - "Wit's End!"

2008-02-10T13:55:00.000-08:00

A must read for any parent that is struggling with their teen or pre-teen today.

"Wit's End!" to be release in July 2008 inspired by "A Parent's True Story" by Sue Scheff.

Do you have a struggling teen? At risk teens? Defiant Teen? Teen Depression? Problem Teen? Difficult Teen? Teen Rage? Teen Anger? Teen Drug Use? Teen Gangs? Teen Runaways? Bipolar? ADD/ADHD? Disrespectful Teen? Out of Control Teen? Peer Pressure?

Find about more about Boarding Schools, Military Schools, Christian Boarding Schools, Residential Treatment Centers, and Therapeutic Boarding Schools.

Sue Scheff and Carolina Springs Academy

2007-12-07T10:36:00.000-08:00

My true story is based on our experiences (my daughter and myself) with Carolina Springs Academy in Due West, SC.

It seems that Carolina Springs Academy representatives are telling parents that my story is false and I lost in a lawsuit with them.

This continues in their pattern of misrepresentation in my opinion.

I not only defeated them in a jury trial - I went on to defeat them in the Supreme Court of Appeals when they tried to appeal it!

Click here for more details.

Wit's End! A Mother and Daughter's Story

2007-11-16T17:41:00.001-08:00

Our book will be released in 2008 and will not only journey a struggling teenager it will give others hope and encouragement. Wit's End will be a resource book for parents and others that work with today's teens and adolescents.

Sue Scheff sharing our story....

2007-10-05T05:52:00.001-07:00

My daughter and I decided together to share our story as a mother and daughter that have gone through some tough times. In my new book being released in 2008 will be a journey of what we had gone through, as well as sharing with you the ways you can learn from our mistakes.

2007-09-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

For more information visit www.helpyourteens.com

Sue Scheff - A Parent's True Story

2007-07-29T18:12:00.000-07:00

Worldwide Association of Specialty Schools and Programs

WWASP then changed to WWASPS - now it seems they are:

PREMIER EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS

Be sure to do your research and know what you are considering for your child.

Read my story.

WWASPS aka WWASP - A Parent's True Story

2007-06-08T15:52:00.000-07:00

As of May 2006, it is believed that WWASP aka WWASPS or Premier Educational Systems has affiliations with the following:

Academy of Ivy Ridge, NY (Recently withdrew their affiliation with WWASPS)
Canyon View Park, MT
Camas Ranch, MT
Carolina Springs Academy, SC
Cross Creek Programs, UT (Cross Creek Center and Cross Creek Manor)
Darrington Academy, GA
Gulf Coast Academy, MS
Help My Teen, UT (Adolescent Services Adolescent Placement) Promotes and markets these programs. Lisa Irvin
Horizon Academy, NV
Lifelines Family Services, UT (Promotes and markets these programs) Jane Hawley
Majestic Ranch, UT
Midwest Academy, IA (Brian Viafanua, formerly the Director of Paradise Cove as shown on Primetime, is the current Director here)
Parent Teen Guide (Promotes and markets these programs)
Pillars of Hope, Costa Rica
Pine View Christian Academy (Borders FL, AL, MS)
Reality Trek, UT
Red River Academy, LA (Borders TX)
Royal Gorge Academy, CO (It is believed that Randall Hinton - who admitted using pepper spray on teens - is employed at this facility and recently arrested).
Sky View Academy, NV
Spring Creek Lodge, MT
Teen Help, UT (Promotes and markets these programs)
Tranquility Bay, Jamaica

Are you considering any of the above programs? Take a moment to read my story first - make an educated decision as a parent. My story is being published by the same publisher that gave you "Chicken Soup for the Soul" book series. My daughter suffered at the hands of Carolina Springs Academy - I have defeated WWASPS/WWASP legally in a jury trial and again in the Supreme Court of Appeals.

WWASPS/WWASP call me a disgruntled parent - Yes I am, you harm my child, I become disgruntled.

WWASPS/WWASP call me a competitor - No - I don't own or manage any schools or programs. I never have and never will.

What will they think of next to discredit me and condone the alleged abuse of so many.

Sue Scheff (P.U.R.E.): A Parent's True Story

2007-01-29T16:11:00.000-08:00

Deception, Misrepresentation & Fraud

By Sue Scheff™, Weston, FL

After experiencing my good teen making some bad choices, I found myself on the Internet surfing until I was so confused and stressed I couldn't make any decision. One group of specialty schools and behavior modification programs kept popping up wherever I clicked; I figured they must be good. Then I received their beautiful glossy literature with a video that could make any parent weep (I actually received 4 packets of the same material)! The cost was reasonable in comparison with other programs, or so I thought until I enrolled my child. The hidden costs added up like a grocery bill. I was totally misled by my rash decision. This is a common mistake when parents are placed in a desperate situation and a swift sales rep is waiting for you; answering every question the way you want to hear it and making promises that convince you that they can help your child.

My true nightmare was just beginning.

Impressed by the fancy words and glossy brochures, I enrolled my child with the understanding that they were qualified help. I am ashamed to say, I never did a background check on these programs. I had called their parent references that they gave me (and later found out they were paid to talk to me, some actually receiving a free month’s tuition). I know many of you are thinking I must have been nuts, and you are right. While in this stage of my life, I was in a total frenzy. I truthfully just wanted help for my child and thought for the money I was paying, it must be good.

Long story short, my frenzy and desperation was my biggest mistake I made. This was not what they sold me. It was more of a warehousing of teens program. I was looking for therapy and internalization through the help of professionals. I believe if you take a negative child, and put them in a negative environment, it builds resentment and anger. Literally, this is what I had done. I had no idea as to what I did. Fraud, misrepresentation, combined with a vulnerable parent can lead to danger for a child in my opinion.

I attempted using the so-called Independent Educational Consultant that immediately wanted a check for $350.00 just to talk to me. They claimed they could help me (without even knowing my daughter) for about another $3000.00 or more.

It was a couple of months later, after I attended some very bizarre seminars that were mandated in order to visit your child that I realized I had made a big mistake. I wrote my withdrawal letter immediately after the second seminar. Actually, in retrospect, red flags went up shortly after I dropped my child off and I asked who the psychologist would be, and guess what, there was none, unless I wanted to pay extra! So who led the group therapy they raved about? There was no group therapy, there was a person who sat in a circle with them as they reflected, which was usually another student. I would have hired their psychologist for another $100 per visit, but why? We could have done that at home. Their sales reps told me that there was a licensed therapist "on staff and on site". I should have pulled my child then, however I thought I was over-reacting since I was in such confusion and frenzy. The staff was very good at convincing me to "trust the program" instead of addressing my concerns.

During my child’s entire stay of almost 6 months, I was never allowed to speak with my child. I only spoke with an employee once a week for about 15 minutes (In my further research, these employees had no credentials and many didn’t have education beyond High School including the President of the Organization). My child wrote me letters: some good, some bad. The good ones were considered manipulation; the bad ones were considered proof that they needed to stay longer. I couldn't win and neither could my child.

After observing and listening to some of the other teens there and their families, I realized it was all very strange. Some of these kids were there for well over a year and the families were so deep into this program, it was sickening and sad. The support group meetings were like a Stepford Family Reunion, with a leader making her financial profits. These poor kids just wanted to be loved and held by their parents, who couldn’t be there. I later found out it usually takes up to 6 months to speak with your child, and in most cases up to a year to see them. Although they sell you another story, the truth be known, most take 2-3 years to graduation. Recently I understand a law was passed that mandates you can see your child after 3 months. I am not sure if this group of programs is abiding by this new regulation; however, it is in place.
I brought my child home and when she felt confident I wouldn’t send her back, I heard some unspeakable stories. The stories were very consistent with many others I was hearing and reading about. My child went immediately into real counseling where, after almost two years, we are recovering from this traumatic experience in our lives. My child was suffering from depression and nightmares from the stay at Carolina Springs Academy. The fear of being sent back, had created suicidal thoughts, however the excellent psychologist helped my child through this horrible post experience of WWASP. I have heard from many other post-WWASP students and families suffering from the same symptoms, which is very sad.

I firmly believe, until you walk the shoes as a parent of a teen, you really don't know the feeling of hopelessness. I have been there and I have survived and learned from it. I believe in sharing my knowledge of this, very political, industry with as many families as possible. It is very scary to know that even Independent Educational Consultants (that are supposed to be professionals) have no state or government regulations. In other words, anyone can state they are Educational Consultants. This combined with the misrepresentation of schools and programs, is very frightening and costly in many ways.

Our experiences occurred with Carolina Springs Academy, one of many of their programs that are part of the World Wide Association of Specialty Programs (WWASP or aka WWASPS or aka Premier Educational Systems). Some of the programs names are: Cross Creek Manor -UT, Cross Creek Center - UT, Spring Creek Lodge - MT, Tranquility Bay - Jamaica, Casa By The Sea (closed due to allegations of neglect and abuse), Academy at Dundee Ranch (raided and closed), Academy at Ivy Ridge - NY (accreditation suspended in April 2004; 2005 State Attorney General Spitzer made Ivy Ridge pay approx. $1.65 Millions Dollars in fines and to parents for Educational Fraud), Majestic Ranch - UT, Pacific View, Midwest Academy - IA, Paradise Cove (closed due to allegations of neglect and abuse), Morava Academy (closed due to allegations of neglect and abuse), Darrington Academy - GA, and Horizon's Academy - NV. I feel all of their programs are simply boot camps that claim internalization; however, lack it tremendously. Their specialty is cash cropping children; marketing and using a child are part of their strategy. They are, in my opinion, a children’s warehouse and a parents’ escape from their desperate situation. Their deluxe *Marketing and Pyramid skills seems to be what they specialize in.

In many parents and professionals’ opinions, the fine line of their cult-like program is enough to destroy many families and children, as we have many testimonials to. (Please review some of our Informational Articles for more true stories). I am speaking from experience. I used to sell their program and market their schools to gain free months’ tuition. Yes, whenever you refer a family, you would get a free month! What a concept, and I fell for it! Being involved in selling the program controls your mind in the consistency of how great they are when in reality, you have not even spoken to your child. I had no idea how the program was working; I was just trained to sell like a good follower.

There are many followers of this program who have become programized. There is many like myself, and more waking up daily. Dateline, Primetime, 48 Hours & Inside Edition has done segments on this organization that paint the same picture of negative experiences. There are many newspaper and magazine articles (including People, Forbes, New York Times, LA Times, News Day, Miami Herald, Sun Sentinel, Guardian, Jamaican Observer, YM Magazine, Salon, Time Magazine, Spin, etc.) and lawsuits pending against WWASP that they are struggling to keep silent. Where there is smoke, there is usually fire. Why take a chance with your child?
Many wonder why they are allowed to continue, it is simple, money and plenty of it. Money is usually the root of evil, and it seems obvious with this. I am a firm believer that one day WWASP aka WWASPS aka Premier Educational Systems will be held accountable for their actions. The day will come that many truths will be exposed. For the sake of the silent cries of the children, the sooner the better.

Please take a moment to review these Links that have FACTUAL reports of what WWASP represents. It also includes sworn testimony (dated August 2002) from graduates of the program of WWASP and the abuse they lived through. I want you to realize that these are graduates, as many WWASP representatives use the excuse if a child is not functioning or a parent is not convinced is because they did not graduate which means the child is not fully-baked. Yes, they refer to baking our children.

Sworn Transcripts: (Click here to view transcripts)These transcripts are extremely sensitive, gruesome at times, as well as factual. I want to prepare you for some very disturbing facts from graduates. The Closing Arguments are very compelling. It does have a happy ending, as the boy was released from the program immediately. Please note, it was a third party (a cousin) that actually brought this lawsuit to action and she won the release of her cousin over the father's rights.

Factual Articles and Reports:

Two time Pulitzer Prize Winner, Lou Kilzer, has written a very compelling series entitled "Desperate Measures", linked here:

http://www.denver-rmn.com/desperate/site-desperate/mpg2-desperate.shtml http://www.denver-rmn.com/desperate/site-desperate/mpg4-desperate.shtml

First Lawsuit WON Against WWASP:

PURE is proud to have defeated WWASP (click here to learn more about this victory) as they attempted to silence P.U.R.E. and myself. Please note that we won in their state of Utah. I believe this is the first of many wins.

I hope my experiences have saved parents from making the mistake I made in desperation. I am sharing my personal experiences to create awareness about the misrepresentation and fraud I endured. This story was not written out of malice against WWASP (World Wide Association of Specialty Programs), it was written for the principle and morals that they lacked. I think they call it "Accountability". I am accountable for what I have written as being the truth as I experienced it.

*As a footnote for their Marketing, when I was searching I was recruited by a Miami based parent that has made a mission (in many peoples’ opinions) of building this pyramid for WWASP. Although she claimed she had no financial gain from this, we have further learned that she collects large sums of money for her involvement with WWASP. Although she states she makes her income from her Title Company, it was discovered that she was arrested in February 2002 on charges of illegally diverting nearly $6 million in trust money through a variety of schemes. Lynn Pretzfeld, of Miami Florida, was charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering and grand theft.

According to the Florida Department of Insurance, the now closed Title Examiners Inc. diverted money into personal accounts from escrow accounts.

UPDATE - According to public record, on June 3, 2003, Lynn Pretzfeld is now a Convicted Felon and on 10 years probation as well as paying restitution. Case #F02003735B (Click here to view PDF file)

Please note that WWASP seems to make it a habit to change their names. When I was involved, it was WWASP. A couple years ago, it became WWASPS (with an "s") and presently we understand they are opening under Premier Educational Systems. I assume when parents do Search Engine research, it eliminates any bad press that may be associated with previous names. This is just an opinion. If you have nothing to hide, why the constant name changes?