We would like to present here some of the models and techniques we have developed with our head therapist Yonah Pollack. As you know, the medium is the message, and therefore we give you the information in the format that we and the students use. We hope the ideas that emerge from these charts and pictures will communicate to you as mere words could not.

View PDF diagram of our method of success.

THE FEAR MODEL

Our first model, the FEAR model is an extrapolation of slogans from the "12-Step" programs:

We look at our problems as Column II. We perceive the tasks, challenges, difficulties facing us, and we are afraid. We expect failure, pain, and blame. We have two options how to respond: Column I - Run! or Column III Face it!

Each option has its short term and long term effects. These we chart as follows:

Short Term	Comfort	Long Term
Long Term	Discomfort	Short Term

When we run, we choose one of the numerous escapist/self-defeating options the modern world has to offer. When we face it, we turn to Hashem for help. We have had significant success helping the students learn to see G-d as the One to turn to for help, a loving caring Father, replacing their image of Him as the finger-wagging punisher. Tefilla is therefore essential to this process.

TOOLS

What tools do we supply a boy to move forward once he decides to face his problems instead of run away?

1. Facilitate his realization of what his own core beliefs are.
2. Show him how his behavior is in conflict with those beliefs.
3. Make it clear that a happy, fulfilled life is impossible when behavior and beliefs are severely at odds.
4. Apply the CDC model to help him move forward.

Commitment	Discipline	Consistency
I'm committed to this mitzvah/practice/way of life for the long haul, yet I need only fulfill it today. *	I've decided, based on my beliefs that this is what G-d desires of me and that I'm ready to handle it.	I'm committed to this mitzvah/practice/way of life for the long haul, yet I need only fulfill it today. *

* A life-long commitment is daunting, but when we focus on the fact that each day is only one day, the challenge becomes easier to face.

CHANGE

Our students believe in G-d, in Torah MiSinai and in Chazal. We help them clarify that these are indeed their beliefs. We show them the ramifications of behaving contrary to these beliefs. They invariably agree that continuing on such a path will never lead them to happiness. So how can they stop these counter-productive behaviors?

Change!

But, I can't handle it. How can I change overnight?

OK, so what can you handle? Let's work on one thing at a time.

We make a list with them, Shabbos, Tzitzis, Tefilla, Tefillin. Pick one. What are you going to work on?

They choose one area where they wish to make a positive change in their lives. The behavior modification technique we use is charting, reinforcing positive behavior by simply checking off that they have achieved their goal on a given day. This gives them the chance to apply the CDC model, to know that, at least in one small way they can change and grow. Then, we gradually increase their list, one mitzvah at a time.

View PDF diagram of our method of success.