Admissions: What to Expect
From Your First Conversation to Your Son’s Arrival
Considering residential care for your son can bring up difficult questions. You may be wondering whether he needs this level of support, how to prepare, or what happens once you reach out.
Our admissions process gives your family time to understand Live Strong House while giving our team a clearer picture of your son’s needs. Each step helps us determine whether our program is an appropriate fit and helps you make an informed decision.
Before You Begin
You don’t need to have every record ready before contacting us. Start with what is happening now and what led your family to consider residential support.
It helps to think about where your son is struggling most and what support he has already received. Tell us what has helped, what remains difficult, and what you hope a residential setting could offer.
For an overview of who the program serves and the needs it can support, see our Admissions page. Our dedicated Eligibility page will provide additional details.
Step 1
Talk With Our Admissions Team
Share What Your Family Is Facing
The process begins with a confidential consultation. We’ll discuss your son’s current challenges and whether Live Strong House may align with his needs.
This is also your opportunity to ask questions. You may want to understand how your son would continue school or how your family would participate while he is here. Bring the concerns that matter most to you.
For that first conversation, be prepared to discuss:
- What prompted you to seek residential care.
- How your son is doing at home and at school.
- His experience with therapy or other support.
- Any immediate safety concerns.
- What your family hopes will change.
You don’t need to summarize his entire history perfectly. The conversation gives us a starting point for deciding what information to review next.
Step 2
Complete the Clinical Assessment
Help Us Understand the Support Your Son Needs
The clinical assessment includes a review of your son’s clinical and academic history. When appropriate, that review may involve consultation with therapists or schools that know him.
A diagnosis alone does not tell us everything about a young man. Understanding how he functions day to day helps clarify whether the support available here matches his needs.
Depending on his history, our team may ask for:
- Recent clinical evaluations or psychological testing.
- Information about previous treatment.
- Current medications and relevant medical history.
- School transcripts or recent progress reports.
- An IEP or 504 plan, if applicable.
- Contact information for providers involved in his care.
These are examples of information that may be helpful, rather than a fixed checklist for every applicant. Ask our team which records apply to your son and how to submit them.
Step 3
Review Costs and Financial Options
Understand the Financial Commitment Before Enrollment
Financial planning is part of the admissions process. Our team can discuss payment options and help you understand available financial resources.
Come prepared with questions about the cost of enrollment and what your family would be responsible for paying. If you are exploring insurance reimbursement, ask about benefit verification and submitting claims. Live Strong House does not directly accept insurance, and verification does not guarantee reimbursement.
You can review the available options and bring any remaining financial questions to the admissions team.
Step 4
Receive an Admission Decision
Determine Whether the Program Is an Appropriate Fit
The final review considers whether Live Strong House can meet your son’s needs.
For your family, this is a time to revisit any unanswered questions. Understanding the expectations of enrollment matters just as much as understanding the services offered.
Before moving forward, make sure you understand what participation will involve for your son and for you. Ask about anything that could affect your decision, including the support he needs most.
Step 5
Coordinate Arrival and Enrollment
Prepare for the Move Together
Once admission is approved, our team coordinates arrival logistics with your family.
Before making final arrangements, confirm the arrival date and ask what needs to be completed beforehand. Request guidance about enrollment paperwork and what your son should bring. Discuss any medication needs directly with the team.
You may also have questions about how to talk with your son about the move. Share those concerns during arrival planning so you can approach the transition with clearer expectations.
Take the First Step
You may be ready to begin enrollment, or you may still be deciding whether residential care makes sense for your son.
Start with a conversation. We’ll help you understand the admissions steps and discuss whether Live Strong House may be an appropriate next step for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the admissions process take?
Families can generally expect two to three weeks. Timing varies with the availability of records and provider consultations, along with your family’s circumstances. Our team can discuss a more specific timeline as the review progresses.
What records are needed?
The records requested depend on your son’s history. Clinical evaluations and school records may be helpful, along with information about previous treatment. Our team will explain what is needed for his review. You can make your first inquiry before gathering everything.
Is a clinical assessment required?
Yes. A clinical assessment is part of the admissions process. It helps our team understand your son’s needs and evaluate whether the program can provide appropriate support.
Can families tour before enrolling?
Yes. Tours are available by appointment. Contact our admissions team to arrange a visit and discuss questions you would like to cover.
Who makes the final admission decision?
The decision follows a final program review. Your admissions contact can explain who participates in your son’s review and how the decision will be communicated to your family.
For more answers about daily life and support, explore the FAQs on our Programs page.