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Understanding School Refusal & Navigating Challenges

Unlocking Solutions to School Avoidance

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School refusal and avoidance present challenges that impact the entire family. Michelle Hoffman is here to help you navigate these challenges, explore your options, and identify the root causes of your child’s refusal. 

Michelle has helped dozens of families, let her help yours.

How Michelle Can Help

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Evidence-based Therapeutic Interventions

Parental Strategies & Responses

Your School’s Role and An Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

Massachusetts Educational Laws

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Reintegration Planning

The sooner Michelle is involved, the faster the facilitation of your child’s return to school.

Michelle's Approach to Addressing School Refusal

  • Conduct 2-3 exclusive sessions with the child to identify underlying issues.

  • Initiate family therapy with parents and child to explore the root causes of school avoidance and develop a strategy for resolution. The work in sessions includes developing the student’s coping skills, coaching parents on effective responses to school refusal, role-playing different scenarios, and taking part in family communication exercises.

  • Assist in crafting a school communication plan with the parents to address the student’s absenteeism. Michelle is available to attend meetings with guidance counselors to provide input on how to support the child in school, including assistance in writing accommodations for an IEP.

  • Supporting parents in school interactions, ensuring all parties have the same objectives to address root problems beyond just getting the child back to school.