Trails carolina “investigation” | Uncovering the Truth

Trails Carolina

Trails Carolina is a wilderness therapy program located in North Carolina. It specializes in helping troubled adolescents and young adults who are struggling with emotional and behavioral issues. Founded in 2008, the program has since served hundreds of participants.

In recent years, Trails Carolina has come under scrutiny for allegations of abuse and neglect. Former participants and their families have come forward with stories of physical and emotional abuse, as well as inadequate medical care and support.

In 2023, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services launched an investigation into Trails Carolina. The investigation is ongoing, but preliminary findings have revealed significant concerns about the program’s safety and practices.

Allegations of Abuse and Neglect

The allegations of abuse and neglect at Trails Carolina are wide-ranging and serious. Former participants have reported being subjected to physical abuse, including being hit, slapped, and choked. They have also alleged emotional abuse, such as being humiliated, screamed at, and threatened with isolation.

In addition, former participants have reported that they did not receive adequate medical care or support while at Trails Carolina. They have said that they were denied medical attention when they needed it, and that they were not provided with the necessary support for their mental health needs.

Investigation Findings

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services investigation into Trails Carolina is ongoing, but preliminary findings have revealed significant concerns about the program’s safety and practices.

The investigation found that Trails Carolina staff members had used excessive force on participants, and that they had failed to report allegations of abuse to the appropriate authorities. The investigation also found that the program did not have adequate medical staff or supplies, and that it did not have adequate safeguards in place to protect participants from harm.

Impact on Participants

The allegations of abuse and neglect at Trails Carolina have had a devastating impact on former participants. Many have reported suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. Some have even attempted suicide.

The investigation into Trails Carolina is a necessary step to uncovering the truth about what happened at the program and to ensuring that no other participants are harmed. It is also an opportunity to shine a light on the broader issue of abuse in the wilderness therapy industry.

Wilderness Therapy Industry

Wilderness therapy is a type of mental health treatment that involves sending participants to live in the wilderness for weeks or months at a time. The goal of wilderness therapy is to help participants develop coping skills, improve communication, and build self-esteem.

While wilderness therapy can be an effective treatment for some people, it is important to note that the industry is largely unregulated. This means that there are few safeguards in place to protect participants from harm.

What Can Be Done?

There are a number of things that can be done to improve the safety and effectiveness of wilderness therapy programs. First, the industry needs to be better regulated. This includes developing standards for staff qualifications and training, as well as establishing clear protocols for reporting and investigating allegations of abuse.

Second, wilderness therapy programs need to be more transparent about their practices. This includes providing families with detailed information about the program’s philosophy, methods, and risks.

Finally, families need to be more diligent when choosing a wilderness therapy program. They should carefully research the program’s reputation and talk to former participants and their families before enrolling their child.

Conclusion

The allegations of abuse and neglect at Trails Carolina are a serious concern. The investigation into the program is a necessary step to uncovering the truth and ensuring that no other participants are harmed. It is also an opportunity to shine a light on the broader issue of abuse in the wilderness therapy industry.

There are a number of things that can be done to improve the safety and effectiveness of wilderness therapy programs. First, the industry needs to be better regulated. Second, wilderness therapy programs need to be more transparent about their practices. Finally, families need to be more diligent when choosing a wilderness therapy program.

Recommendations for Families

If you are considering enrolling your child in a wilderness therapy program, here are some things you can do to protect them:

• Research the program carefully. Talk to former participants and their families, and read online reviews.
• Make sure the program is licensed and accredited. This means that the program has been inspected and meets certain standards of quality.
• Get everything in writing. This includes the program’s philosophy, methods, and risks.
• Visit the program before enrolling your child. This will give you a chance to meet the staff and see the facilities for yourself.
• Stay in touch with your child while they are in the program. This can be done through phone calls, letters, or video chats.