March 3, 2008

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) will offer a six-week Summer Treatment Program (STP) for children ages 6 to 12 with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Asperger's syndrome and oppositional defiant disorder and other behavioral disorders.

STP offers a comprehensive approach to treatment provided in a therapeutic summer day camp setting. The program will be held 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, June 16-July 25, at Community Education South, 1220 50th St. S. The cost is $2,600 per child. A pre-camp interview and assessment will be conducted to determine whether the camp is appropriate for the child.

The program focuses on problem solving training, friendship development, individualized academic remediation, sports skills training, parent education, assessing children's medications and behavior therapy. Children spend two hours each day learning art, computer lab and academic skills. In addition, the children participate in recreational activities such as soccer, basketball, swimming and softball. A daily yoga class emphasizing relaxation and positive imagery will be held in the afternoon.

Parents with questions concerning medications can request a systematic evaluation of the effectiveness of medical treatment that employs systematic observation throughout the day. UAB psychologist Bart Hodgens, Ph.D., says this optional part of the program provides parents with a highly refined medication recommendation for each child. Results are provided to children's referring physicians, enabling them to determine whether a medication is effective, the proper dosage, or whether medical treatment is even necessary. For parents interested in treating their child's behavior problems without medications, STP provides a comprehensive solution.

Space is limited. For more information or to schedule an individual appointment or a group presentation, call (205) 934-5471.