Navigating Problematic Sexual Behaviors in Teenage Boys: A Guide for Parents

In this final episode of Unlocking Hope, host Tiffany Silva Herlin, LCSW, sits down with Emily to reflect on her family’s journey after her son’s return home from residential treatment at Oxbow Academy. Emily shares the ups and downs of reintegrating into daily life, the ongoing work required for healing, and the tools that continue to guide their family forward. Her story highlights both the challenges and the hope that comes with this new chapter.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Preparing for the transition home with a solid plan, professional support, and realistic expectations.Navigating boundaries around technology and independence while balancing freedom with safety.Parents doing their own work to let go of control and create healthier family dynamics.Finding strength in support groups and community to maintain progress long after treatment.Through dedication, support, and mindful effort, Emily’s family navigates the complexities of life after treatment with courage and hope. Their story demonstrates that meaningful growth and healthier family dynamics are possible, even after significant challenges. It’s an encouraging reminder that each step forward, no matter how small, contributes to a brighter future. For more information and support, please visit www.oxbowacademy.net or call 855-676-4272.

In this episode of Unlocking Hope, host Tiffany Silva Herlin, a licensed clinical social worker, continues her conversation with Emily. Emily shares her family's journey through residential treatment at Oxbow Academy, discussing the difficult but transformative process of her son's stay and the powerful role of parent involvement in their family's healing. This episode covers:The Uncomfortable Truth: The process of a "sexual history" evaluation and using a polygraph to validate a student's truth and rebuild family trust.The Power of Parent Involvement: The importance of parents doing their own therapeutic work, seeking support from other families, and being an active part of the healing process.Embracing Discomfort: Why growth for both the parent and child happens outside of a comfort zone, and the valuable lessons learned from this challenging journey.Emily's story offers a transparent look into a family's transformation and provides hope for parents facing similar challenges. Listen to understand the profound impact that a committed and collaborative approach to treatment can have on the entire family system. For more information and support, please visit www.oxbowacademy.net or call 855-676-4272.

Welcome to Unlocking Hope, a podcast dedicated to sharing the powerful stories of families who have found healing through residential treatment. In this episode, we talk with Emily, a courageous mother who recounts the emotional and complex journey of her son’s path through multiple programs, including wilderness therapy and therapeutic boarding school, before ultimately finding the right fit at Oxbow Academy. In this episode you will learn:How a family reached the point of emotional and physical unsafety at home.The valuable role of an educational consultant in a time of crisis.The process of a psychosexual evaluation and why it was a critical part of their journey.Why it's so important for the entire family to do their own healing work.If you are a parent feeling isolated or at a crossroads, this episode is a testament that you are not alone and that hope is possible. Listening to Emily’s story can offer you guidance and encouragement. For more information and support, please visit www.oxbowacademy.net or call 855-676-4272.

*Disclaimer-* Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your situation.Raising a son who is struggling with inappropriate sexual behaviors is a tremendously difficult experience for any parent, and seeking treatment can feel overwhelming. Understandably, parents might have concerns about the clinical polygraphs used at Oxbow Academy. These polygraphs are implemented as a therapeutic tool, not a punitive measure, to help boys on their path toward healing. They aim to provide clarity and understanding in a safe and supportive environment, ultimately fostering trust and growth within families.Therapist and podcast host Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, sits down with Shawn Brooks, the Executive Director of Oxbow Academy, and Jared Rockwood, LCSW, a polygraph examiner at Oxbow Academy. Here are the main topics discussed in this episode of the podcast:Oxbow's Polygraph Journey: The podcast traces how polygraphs became integral to Oxbow's treatment, from initial hesitation to research-backed implementation.Ethical and Safe Practices: Oxbow prioritizes careful preparation and support for students undergoing polygraph testing to mitigate potential harm and foster a safe environment.Truth as the Foundation: The episode stresses the importance of honesty in the healing process, with the polygraph aiding in uncovering the truth and enabling deeper therapeutic work.Positive Treatment Impacts: Polygraph use is linked to faster treatment progress, academic improvement, and positive behavior changes.Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizing the prevalence of trauma, the podcast highlights how polygraphs, used within a safe therapeutic framework, can facilitate trauma processing and healing.At Oxbow Academy, we strive to help teens and their families heal and re-establish trust between one another. This podcast episode helps explain how clinical polygraphs are used to help students tell the truth in a safe environment without judgment. Oxbow empowers boys to take responsibility, address underlying trauma, and work towards a brighter future alongside their families.

*Disclaimer-* Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your situation.It can be incredibly distressing and confusing when your son is struggling with problematic or compulsive sexual behaviors. You may feel a wide range of emotions - from fear and anger to helplessness and shame. Please know that these feelings are normal and you are not alone. This podcast episode offers insight and support for parents navigating this complex issue.Podcast host and therapist Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, interviews Oxbow Academy Executive Director Shawn Brooks and Oxbow Academy polygraph examiner, Jared Rockwood, LCSW. In this episode, these experts discuss:The Role of Polygraph Tests in Teen Treatment: Experts discuss how polygraph tests can uncover factors contributing to anxiety, such as past trauma or undisclosed behaviors.Clinical vs. Forensic Polygraphs: An explanation of the differences, focusing on the therapeutic and supportive approach used in clinical settings.Addressing Concerns About Accuracy and Harm: A look at polygraph accuracy, potential risks, and the importance of proper preparation and compassion.Real-Life Impact of Polygraphs: Stories of how polygraphs have helped teens open up, resulting in more effective treatment and lasting healing.At Oxbow Academy, polygraph tests are carefully integrated into the therapeutic process to encourage honesty and help teens feel safe enough to share their full story. By gaining a clear understanding of a teen’s sexual history, including any instances of victimization or harmful behaviors, therapists can address the root cause of the problem and develop a personalized treatment plan. This approach helps teen boys and their families heal and build a healthier future together.Worried About Your Son’s Sexual Behavior? Call Us Now: 855-676-4272

Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy. Please always seek a mental health professional for your specific situation.—As a parent of a teen, it's crucial to recognize when escalating problematic sexual behaviors necessitate professional intervention. Despite these challenges, commitment to change brings hope for growth and healing.Join Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, and Meredith Barney, the Clinical Director of Oxbow Academy as they discuss:Ensuring proper care through an evaluation period, including clinical polygraphs and psychosexual assessments.How a sex-specific residential treatment approach can help facilitate lasting change with the students.The importance of strong family support and involvement throughout the therapeutic process.Concerned about your teen's escalating sexual behaviors? Don't wait. Get the support you need now. Oxbow Academy can help. We offer personalized support for families facing these challenges. Visit OxbowAcademy.net or call 855-676-4272 to learn how we can guide your family toward healing.

Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy. Please always seek a mental health professional for your specific situation.—The pervasive influence of pornography addiction touches countless families. It erodes trust, fosters shame, and distorts healthy relationships. It’s important to understand how family dynamics play a role in helping your child heal.Join Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, and Meredith Barney, the Clinical Director of Oxbow Academy as they discuss:Effective strategies for rebuilding trust and nurturing understanding.The imperative role of professional family therapy in confronting these challenges head-on.The transformative power of open dialogue and the pursuit of forgiveness within the family unit.Concerned about your teen's escalating sexual behaviors? Don't wait. Get the support you need now. Oxbow Academy can help. We offer personalized support for families facing these challenges. Visit OxbowAcademy.net or call 855-676-4272 to learn how we can guide your family toward healing.

Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy. Please always seek a mental health professional for your specific situation.—When a teenager views pornography, it can create a cycle of shame and isolation, exacerbating mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Teens may turn to pornography due to feelings of loneliness or trauma, and this behavior can further isolate them, making them feel unworthy and disconnected from family and friends. Join Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, and Meredith Barney, the Clinical Director of Oxbow Academy as they discuss:Understanding the impact of pornography on teenage mental health.Recognizing the signs that your teen may struggle with pornography.Learning how to help teens overcome shame and isolation through building relationships and having honest, open communication.Concerned about your teen's escalating sexual behaviors? Don't wait. Get the support you need now. Oxbow Academy can help. We offer personalized support for families facing these challenges. Visit OxbowAcademy.net or call 855-676-4272 to learn how we can guide your family toward healing.

Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy. Please always seek a mental health professional for your specific situation.—Discovering that your child is using pornography can be a challenging and distressing experience for any parent, raising concerns about their child's mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. Join Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, and Meredith Barney, the Clinical Director of Oxbow Academy as they discuss:The impact and effects of pornography addiction among teenagers. The widespread accessibility of explicit online pornography.The need for open conversations between parents and children to prevent secrecy and shame.The role of early intervention and treatment in restoring healthy family dynamics.Concerned about your teen's escalating sexual behaviors? Don't wait. Get the support you need now. Oxbow Academy can help. We offer personalized support for families facing these challenges. Visit OxbowAcademy.net or call 855-676-4272 to learn how we can guide your family toward healing.

When teenagers with autism struggle with hypersexuality, seeking out treatment can be a difficult decision for parents. It's important to remember that therapy and treatment can play a crucial role in addressing this issue and providing support for both your son and your family. In this podcast episode, In this podcast therapist Tiffany Herlin, a licensed clinical social worker, talks with Matthew Child, LMFT a therapist at Oxbow Academy talk about:When should a parent seek out professional help for autism and hypersexuality? It's important to pay attention to any concerning behaviors and consider seeking help if these behaviors are impacting daily life or causing distress. Outpatient therapy with a CSAT therapist can be a great option for addressing hypersexuality in teenagers with autism. Additionally, it may be beneficial for parents to find their own therapist for support during this time. if the behaviors persist or become more severe, residential treatment may be necessary. In treatment, expect a safe and supportive environment where your son can work on understanding and managing his hypersexuality. A psychosexual evaluation may also be a part of the treatment process to better understand the underlying causes and develop a personalized treatment plan. With the right support and treatment, individuals with autism and hypersexuality can learn to manage their behaviors and live a fulfilling life.If your teenage son has autism and struggles with sexually inappropriate behavior, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.

In our modern world, technology has become an integral part of our everyday lives. As parents, it is essential for us to actively oversee our children's use of technology, the internet, gaming, and social media. This responsibility becomes even more important when raising a teenager who is facing challenges with autism and hypersexuality.In this podcast episode, therapist Tiffany Herlin, a licensed clinical social worker, talks with Matthew Child, LMFT, a therapist at Oxbow Academy about:the importance of setting clear rules and consequences around technology usage, given its potential to expose teens to sexually inappropriate content. the benefits of restricting technology use to public or family areas, which can help mitigate the urge among teenagers with autism to view sexually inappropriate content.effective strategies for managing technology use among teenagers with autism and hypersexuality. These strategies include using parental controls, monitoring social media accounts, and limiting screen time. Additionally, parents and caregivers should consider using internet filters, safety software, and privacy settings to further safeguard their teen's online activities.educating teens about online safety and frequently monitoring their gaming activity. By doing so, they help maintain their safety from any sexually inappropriate content. By implementing these measures, parents can help decrease their teen's exposure to sexually inappropriate content and promote a safer and healthier relationship with technology.If your teenage son has autism and struggles with sexually inappropriate behavior, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.

Parenting teenagers with autism and hypersexuality can be a difficult task. Luckily, several practical strategies can successfully control these behaviors. In this podcast episode, therapist Tiffany Herlin, a licensed clinical social worker, talks with Matthew Child, LMFT, a therapist at Oxbow Academy about:When to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in working with teenagers with autism. These mental health professionals possess specialized knowledge that can shed light on your son's challenges, and provide valuable guidance, practical tips, and targeted interventions that address his specific struggles.Providing Safety - It is vital to establish a safe environment at home. This involves establishing clear boundaries and rules, as well as providing adequate supervision.Developing a safety plan with the help of a professional can also help manage and prevent potentially harmful behaviors.Teaching social skills and communication aids in understanding and managing sexual urges and boundaries.Sex education - It is important to educate teens with autism about sex education in a way that is appropriate and understandable for their level of understanding.Positive reinforcement can also be an effective tool in encouraging appropriate behavior.Developing sensory strategies and using medication, if necessary, can also help in managing hypersexual behaviors.Lastly, seeking support from other parents, support groups, or online communities can provide valuable resources and a sense of understanding and connection for parents facing similar challenges.If your teenage son has autism and struggles with sexually inappropriate behavior, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.

Raising a child or teenager with autism can be quite demanding. However, when that child also struggles with sexually inappropriate behaviors the challenges can become even more overwhelming. In this podcast episode, therapist Tiffany Herlin, a licensed clinical social worker, talks with Matthew Child, LMFT, a therapist at Oxbow Academy about:Parents and caregivers often find themselves facing numerous obstacles, including the management of hypersexual behaviors and ensuring the safety of their son. These challenges can have a significant impact on the emotional and mental well-being of parents, leaving them feeling exhausted, stressed, and unsure of how best to support their child. Seeking professional support and therapy is essential in effectively addressing this issue, as it equips parents with the necessary tools and resources to navigate these challenges and provide optimal care for their child. Parents, please know that you are not alone on this journey. There is support available to help you through these difficult times. If your teenage son has autism and struggles with sexually inappropriate behavior, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. One common issue that teenagers with ASD may face is hypersexuality or sexually inappropriate behaviors. This refers to a range of behaviors, such as hyper-fixation on sexual topics, impulsive and inappropriate sexual behaviors, and difficulty understanding appropriate sexual behaviors. In this podcast episode, therapist Tiffany Herlin, a licensed clinical social worker, talks with Matthew Child, LMFT, a therapist at Oxbow Academy about:Teenagers with ASD may be more vulnerable to these behaviors due to their difficulties with social cues and communication, as well as their tendency towards repetitive behaviors. Hypersexuality in teenagers with ASD can be detrimental, as it may lead to engaging in risky sexual behaviors and being drawn into sexually pervasive subcultures. This can also impact their ability to form appropriate social connections and relationships. Understanding autism and hypersexuality in teens can help parents recognize and address these behaviors and their potential consequences. By addressing these issues early on and providing support and guidance, parents can help their teenagers with ASD navigate their sexuality in a healthy and safe way.If your teenage son has autism and struggles with sexually inappropriate behavior, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.

Trigger warning - This podcast contains an in-depth discussion about Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse (COCSA) and may be triggering for people who've experienced a sexual assault. If you are a victim of rape or sexual abuse and need assistance please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673).All mentions of a clinical polygraph are used for therapeutic purposes only and are not intended or designed for legal use. Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your personal situation. ---Did you just find out that your child has sexually abused a sibling, family member, or another child? This is a nightmare scenario for any parent and one that no parent is prepared to handle on their own. In this episode, therapist Tiffany Silva Herlin, LCSW, and Shawn Brooks, the executive director of Oxbow Academy, discuss how to find help and get treatment for your teenage son who sexually abused another child, including:Finding a CSAT therapist for your sonFinding a trauma-informed therapist for the victimFinding your own therapist for support- and possibly a support group How to know if your son needs more in-depth treatment?Importance of a clinical polygraph to find out what has really happenedWhat to expect in treatment?There is hope for these teens and their familiesIf you just discovered that your teenage son has sexually abused a sibling or another child, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.

Trigger warning - This podcast contains an in-depth discussion about Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse (COCSA) and may be triggering for people who've experienced a sexual assault. If you are a victim of rape or sexual abuse and need assistance please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673).All mentions of a clinical polygraph are used for therapeutic purposes only and are not intended or designed for legal use. Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your personal situation. ---Did you just find out that your child has sexually abused a sibling, family member, or another child? This is a nightmare scenario for any parent and one that no parent is prepared to handle on their own. In this episode, therapist Tiffany Silva Herlin, LCSW, sits down with Shawn Brooks, the Executive Director of Oxbow Academy, to discuss Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse (COCSA), Sibling Sexual Abuse, and what parents need to know immediately after discovering that their teen has sexually abused another child. Specifically, they want parents in this situation to know:1. You are not alone2. What behaviors parents may have noticed (or missed) leading up to this discovery?3. How do you make your home safe again? Specific steps to keep everyone safe include:Separate siblings and create safetyUse camerasPut locks on doorsPlan on chaperoningLock up electronics and evaluate pornography usageIf necessary, remove your child from your house and find somewhere else where they’ll be safe.Finding the right kind of therapy for those involved.Create safety for your WHOLE family.4. How do you know what is true?Create safety & then investigateIt's not the parent's job to find the truth, it's your job to create safetyAllow a therapist to help you with the sexual discovery and history and extent of the sexual abuse. If you just discovered that your teenage son has sexually abused a sibling or another child, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.

Trigger warning - This podcast contains an in-depth discussion about Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse (COCSA) and may be triggering for people who've experienced a sexual assault. If you are a victim of rape or sexual abuse and need assistance please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673).All mentions of a clinical polygraph are used for therapeutic purposes only and are not intended or designed for legal use.Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your personal situation. ---Did you just find out that your child has sexually abused a sibling, family member, or another child? This is a nightmare scenario for any parent and one that no parent is prepared to handle on their own. In this episode, therapist Tiffany Silva Herlin, LCSW, and Shawn Brooks, the executive director of Oxbow Academy, discuss: 1. How to navigate some common reactions parents may have in this situation, including:Recognizing how your own triggers and trauma may cloud your judgment Find third-party help to create safety if you’re unable to manage due to you’re own trauma2. How to navigate some common emotions parents may have in this situation, including:Guilt and Shame Immense Anger Mixed emotions of the love for the perpetrator and their sibling who was victimizedGrief Desire to shield anger and emotions from their kids 3. The importance of getting therapy for yourself and your kids as you all strive to heal from childhood sexual abuse.4. Why is this happening? What led my teen to act out sexually with another child?Graphic & Abusive Pornography useLack of healthy sexual educationThinking errors ASD & HypersexualityADHD & ImpulsivityBipolar DisorderOCD & intrusive sexual thoughtsAttachment issuesIf you just discovered that your teenage son has sexually abused a sibling or another child, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.

Trigger warning - This podcast contains an in-depth discussion about Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse (COCSA) and may be triggering for people who've experienced a sexual assault. If you are a victim of rape or sexual abuse and need assistance please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673).All mentions of a clinical polygraph are used for therapeutic purposes only and are not intended or designed for legal use. Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your personal situation. ---Did you just find out that your child has sexually abused a sibling, family member, or another child? This is a nightmare scenario for any parent and one that no parent is prepared to handle on their own. In this episode, therapist Tiffany Silva Herlin, LCSW, sits down with Shawn Brooks, the Executive Director of Oxbow Academy, to discuss Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse (COCSA), Sibling Sexual Abuse, and what parents need to know immediately after discovering that their teen has sexually abused another child. Specifically, they want parents in this situation to know:1. You are not alone2. What behaviors parents may have noticed (or missed) leading up to this discovery?3. How do you make your home safe again? Specific steps to keep everyone safe include:Separate siblings and create safetyUse camerasPut locks on doorsPlan on chaperoningLock up electronics and evaluate pornography usageIf necessary, remove your child from your house and find somewhere else where they’ll be safe.Finding the right kind of therapy for those involved.Create safety for your WHOLE family.4. How do you know what is true?Create safety & then investigateIt's not the parent's job to find the truth, it's your job to create safetyAllow a therapist to help you with the sexual discovery and history and extent of the sexual abuse. If you just discovered that your teenage son has sexually abused a sibling or another child, please give us a call at 855-676-4272 or visit OxbowAcademy.net to see how we can help your family.