Residence Program
Supporting families through challenging times
The Residence Program (RP) is a comprehensive 14-week family-centred program designed to support families experiencing ongoing challenges with their adolescent (ages 12–17).
Through a combination of structured weekday residential support, family counselling, parent support, and skill-building activities, the program helps families strengthen communication, rebuild connection, and develop healthier ways of navigating conflict and emotional challenges together.
The program is voluntary and involves active participation from both teens and parents or guardians throughout the process.
A family-centred approach
The Residence Program recognizes that lasting change happens when families work together. Because the program is family-centred, support is provided to both teens and parents or guardians simultaneously, helping families strengthen communication, develop new strategies, and work toward shared goals throughout the 14-week program.
OUR DUAL SUPPORT SYSTEM
for teens
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Structured weekday residence from Monday after school to Friday morning
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Mandatory school attendance during the day
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Supervised homework and evening routines
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Participation in skill-building and group activities
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Support with communication, emotional regulation, accountability, and life skills
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Structured expectations, responsibilities, and peer support
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Weekends at home to maintain family connection and practice new skills
for parents & guardians
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Weekly family counselling tailored to the family's needs
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Participation in a weekly parent support group
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Guidance in strengthening parenting approaches and communication
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Development of practical tools and strategies
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Ongoing collaboration with program staff throughout the 14 weeks
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Opportunities to practice and reinforce new strategies at home during weekend visits
What does the program involve?
During the week, youth live at AMCAL's residence while continuing to attend their regular school during the day. Evenings focus on life skills, homework support, structured routines, group activities, and relationship-building.
Youth return home each weekend, allowing families to practice new strategies, strengthen communication, and apply what they are learning throughout the program.
At the same time, parents and guardians participate in counselling and parent support to help reinforce growth and positive changes at home.
Who Is the Residence Program For?
Our program is designed for families experiencing ongoing challenges with their adolescent and who may benefit from additional structure, support, counselling, and opportunities to strengthen family relationships.
The program may be appropriate for families experiencing:
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Ongoing family conflict or communication difficulties
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Emotional or behavioural challenges at home or school
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Sudden decline in grades or school engagement
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Chronic absenteeism or running away
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Emotional or physical distancing within the family
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Escalation in verbal or physical aggression
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Increased secrecy, deception, or lying
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Concerns related to substance use or risky behaviours
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Difficulty managing emotions, boundaries, or responsibilities
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A need for additional structure, support, and family stability
Eligibility
To participate in the Residence Program:
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Youth must be between 12 and 17 years old
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Youth must be enrolled full-time in school
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Both the youth and parent(s)/guardian(s) must consent to participate
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Families must actively engage in counselling and program participation throughout the 14 weeks
If transportation is not accessible through public transit, parents or guardians may be responsible for transportation arrangements during the program.
Admission Process
Families interested in the Residence Program are encouraged to contact the program coordinator to discuss their situation and determine whether the program may be a good fit.The admission process includes an assessment with the family to better understand their needs, goals, and suitability for the program. If the program is determined to be appropriate, staff will work with the family to prepare for admission and review program expectations, structure, and goals.
our summer program
Summer 2026
Our Residence Summer Program offers a unique opportunity for youth who are not in school during the summer months. Tailored to accommodate the absence of school, our program features a structured daily schedule filled with diverse activities and excursions. Participants engage in volunteer work to contribute to the community, take part in educational and entertaining activities, explore the vibrant city of Montreal, and acquire valuable life skills. Designed to foster autonomy and independence, the program serves as an excellent transitional period between school years for youth aged 12 to 17.
Please note that participants must have completed elementary school to join the program.
What's next?
1
Initial Contact
No referral needed
2
Assessment Meeting
Determine the applicable services for your family
3
At-Home Deliberation
Family decides if they want services
Start services
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