For Release: February 8, 2024
Contact: Maddy Schoap, Public Affairs Director, 301-986-8770, maddy@natsap.org


NATSAP Welcomes Therapeutic Day Schools as Members

Bowie, MD— The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) is delighted to announce that Therapeutic Day Schools are now eligible to join the association’s esteemed membership upon accreditation from the National Independent Private Schools Association (NIPSA).

Recognizing the vital role that Therapeutic Day Schools play in the field of therapeutic education, NATSAP has expanded its membership criteria to include these schools. Therapeutic Day Schools provide essential continuity of care for students    who benefit from a structured therapeutic environment while maintaining connections with their families and communities. NIPSA accreditation signifies a commitment to excellence in education, safety, and therapeutic practices. By including Therapeutic    Day Schools in membership, NATSAP aims to create a more comprehensive network of professionals dedicated to upholding the highest standards in therapeutic care and education. This effort further solidifies dedication to fostering collaboration and    promoting best practices within the therapeutic education community.

John Singleton, Ed.D., President of the NATSAP Board, expressed his support for this significant development, stating, "The inclusion of Therapeutic Day Schools in NATSAP's    membership, upon achieving NIPSA accreditation, is a testament to our commitment to diversity and excellence in therapeutic education. This expansion will enhance the collective knowledge and expertise within our Association."

 Evan Flamenbaum,    MA, DSW, Co-founder and Head of School at Academics West remarked, “Therapeutic day schools provide essential community-based support and are integral to an effective continuum of care so students can successfully    step down from residential programs.”

Adding support for NATSAP members, Jennifer Flowers, MBA, Founder & CEO of Accreditation Guru, Inc.    said that “Therapeutic Day Schools that have achieved national accreditation meet rigorous standards, further supporting clinical services for students in their treatment plans.”

NATSAP invites all Therapeutic Day Schools to pursue NIPSA    accreditation and join our community of professionals dedicated to advancing the field of therapeutic education. For more information about NATSAP membership eligibility and the accreditation process through NIPSA, please visit https://natsap.org/ and    https://www.nipsa.org/.

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About the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP)
Founded in January 1999, NATSAP, a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit membership organization, is a national resource for programs and professionals assisting young people with emotional and behavioral difficulties. Located throughout the U.S., NATSAP        members include therapeutic schools, residential treatment programs, wilderness therapy programs, young adult programs, and home-based residential programs. The Association is governed by an elected, volunteer Board of Directors comprised of representatives from its membership. NATSAP members are independently operated and owned; therefore, NATSAP does not provide placement services. All NATSAP member programs that treat children under 18 are overseen by state therapeutic licensure or accredited        by major mental health bodies, and in some cases, both.