The KEYS
The KEYS (Knowledge and Excellence for Your Success) is a strengths-based, short-term, co-ed, TRICARE Certified program for adolescents ages 12 to 17 ½ using cognitive behavioral therapy.
The level of service offered in KEYS is somewhere between acute psychiatric hospitalization and less intensive levels of care, such as partial hospitalization/day care, outpatient services or group treatment programs. We may also provide psychological assessments.
This program approaches adolescents suffering from major mental illness and/or serious emotional disturbance with the belief that every crisis is an opportunity for change. While this is not a suitable program for youth with a primary diagnosis of substance abuse, we do accept adolescents with a secondary diagnosis of chemical dependency or eating disorders.
The KEYS is for males and females with:
- A DSM-IV diagnosis of psychiatric illness
- A repeated pattern of physical aggression
- Frequent, severe loss of temper
- Persistent defiance of adult rules resulting in danger to self or others
- Markedly impaired social judgment
- Pervasive and persistent substance abuse
- Partially controlled psychotic symptoms
Education
Students attend a six-hour day of school, which includes seven 50-minute periods:
- English/Language Arts
- Science
- Math
- Social Studies
- Health/Physical Education
- Social Skills
- Computer Science
We align our teaching material with South Carolina’s state standards. Teachers have bachelor’s or master’s degrees and are licensed in the state. Our education program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). During the summer months, we hold a 7- to 8-week enrichment program that allows students to participate in art, music, drama, cooking and sewing.
