Neurodevelopmental issues in teens can fuel addictions, cause behavioral issues, and more.
Neurodevelopmental disorders are conditions that affect how the brain functions. Teens diagnosed with these conditions – such as ADHD or Aspergers – often struggle with interpersonal skills, feel misunderstood, experience emotional frustration, and more – these often lead to behavioral problems with lasting impacts.
Our unique nature-based program provides a safe, stable, environment that focuses on improving social & emotional skills, tailored to each child’s unique needs. We are dedicated to treating the whole child, not isolated symptoms, working with each family to address the interplay of issues in a customized Christ-centered therapeutic program.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a legitimate medical condition and teens who are showing symptoms of the disorder need special care and attention. Teens with ADHD benefit extensively from our personalized academic environment and our nature based therapy component.
Sixty-nine percent of students at Shepherd’s Hill Academy who were on a medication regimen for ADHD and other disorders were able to be taken off their medication or saw a significant reduction in their regimen during their time at Shepherd’s Hill Academy. Our therapeutic team offers a wide range of therapeutic methods, including cognitive behavior therapy, in order to create an individualized program for your teen with ADHD.
Aspergers/High Functioning Autism (ASD)
Formally known as Aspergers Syndrome, high functioning autism is part of the new spectrum of autism. Individuals with high functioning ASD still have criteria related to deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted or repetitive behavior, however, the severity of their impairment is far less than others on the spectrum.
High functioning ASD individuals may struggle in social interactions because they do not naturally read social cues and find it hard to make friends. Social situations can be increasingly stressful because they struggle to make eye contact and to connect conversationally. Other features of high functioning ASD can include odd habits or interests that not everyone can relate to as well as fixation on certain topics or themes. At times these individuals are also very consistent with their need for order and predictability. A routine helps them to feel secure and comfortable. If you think your child is struggling with Aspergers, call us at (706) 703-4188 or contact us to learn more about our individualized treatment approach.
A therapeutic environment like SHA can provide consistency and structure for teens struggling with these diagnoses.
There are a wealth of opportunities for kids to practice social skills, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation within the therapeutic milieu. Highlights of our program include:

Unplugged Experiential Living
Living in a rustic environment, our students are insulated from negative peers and the constant bombardment of media, allowing them to develop healthier habits.
Our Programs > >
Nature-Based Therapy
There are a wealth of opportunities for your child to practice social skills, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation within the therapeutic milieu.
Therapeutic Approach > >
Fully Accredited Private Academy
Teens not only get the psychological and social care they need; they also make academic progress in an environment that stimulates and motivates.
Our Academy > >“The discipline, the responsibility, the spiritual guidance, and the schooling were exactly on target. SHA ministered to the entire family. Their program is unique – just like our situation was – but I can truthfully say their intervention in the life of my grandson helped him become a young man to be proud of. Would we do it again – without question.”
– Sara T, Grandparent of SHA Graduate
Take the first step towards recovery.
Call us at (706) 703-4188 or contact us below