Navigating Problematic Sexual Behaviors in Teenage Boys: A Guide for Parents

Oxbow Academy
  • 5.0 (6)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

Disclaimer- Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your situation. Trigger warning - This podcast contains an in-depth discussion about sexual abuse and may be triggering for people who've experienced a sexual assault. If you are a victim of rape or sexual abuse and need assistance please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673). Welcome to "Navigating Problematic Sexual Behaviors in Teens," the podcast designed to support and empower parents of teenage boys who are struggling with problematic sexual behaviors. We understand that parenting through these challenges can be tough, and that's why we're here to provide you with valuable insights, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you on this journey. Join us as we navigate this journey together, offering you the tools and understanding you need to support your teenage son's mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being. Remember, you're not alone in this, and with the right information and support, you can guide your son toward a healthier and happier path.

  1. 09/24/2025 · VIDEO

    Rebuilding and Reconnecting: Life After Residential Treatment

    In this final episode of Unlocking Hope, host Tiffany Silva Herlin, LCSW, sits down with Emily to reflect on her family’s journey after her son’s return home from residential treatment at Oxbow Academy. Emily shares the ups and downs of reintegrating into daily life, the ongoing work required for healing, and the tools that continue to guide their family forward. Her story highlights both the challenges and the hope that comes with this new chapter. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Preparing for the transition home with a solid plan, professional support, and realistic expectations.Navigating boundaries around technology and independence while balancing freedom with safety.Parents doing their own work to let go of control and create healthier family dynamics.Finding strength in support groups and community to maintain progress long after treatment.Through dedication, support, and mindful effort, Emily’s family navigates the complexities of life after treatment with courage and hope. Their story demonstrates that meaningful growth and healthier family dynamics are possible, even after significant challenges. It’s an encouraging reminder that each step forward, no matter how small, contributes to a brighter future. For more information and support, please visit www.oxbowacademy.net or call 855-676-4272.

    27 min

  2. 09/23/2025 · VIDEO

    Embracing Discomfort: The Work of Healing During Treatment

    In this episode of Unlocking Hope, host Tiffany Silva Herlin, a licensed clinical social worker, continues her conversation with Emily. Emily shares her family's journey through residential treatment at Oxbow Academy, discussing the difficult but transformative process of her son's stay and the powerful role of parent involvement in their family's healing. This episode covers: The Uncomfortable Truth: The process of a "sexual history" evaluation and using a polygraph to validate a student's truth and rebuild family trust.The Power of Parent Involvement: The importance of parents doing their own therapeutic work, seeking support from other families, and being an active part of the healing process.Embracing Discomfort: Why growth for both the parent and child happens outside of a comfort zone, and the valuable lessons learned from this challenging journey.Emily's story offers a transparent look into a family's transformation and provides hope for parents facing similar challenges. Listen to understand the profound impact that a committed and collaborative approach to treatment can have on the entire family system. For more information and support, please visit www.oxbowacademy.net or call 855-676-4272.

    31 min

  3. 09/22/2025 · VIDEO

    The Breaking Point: A Family's Decision to Seek Residential Treatment

    Welcome to Unlocking Hope, a podcast dedicated to sharing the powerful stories of families who have found healing through residential treatment. In this episode, we talk with Emily, a courageous mother who recounts the emotional and complex journey of her son’s path through multiple programs, including wilderness therapy and therapeutic boarding school, before ultimately finding the right fit at Oxbow Academy. In this episode you will learn: How a family reached the point of emotional and physical unsafety at home.The valuable role of an educational consultant in a time of crisis.The process of a psychosexual evaluation and why it was a critical part of their journey.Why it's so important for the entire family to do their own healing work.If you are a parent feeling isolated or at a crossroads, this episode is a testament that you are not alone and that hope is possible. Listening to Emily’s story can offer you guidance and encouragement. For more information and support, please visit www.oxbowacademy.net or call 855-676-4272.

    31 min

  4. 01/30/2025 · VIDEO

    Data-Driven Therapy: The Research Behind Polygraphs in Adolescent Sex-Specific Therapy

    *Disclaimer-* Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your situation. Raising a son who is struggling with inappropriate sexual behaviors is a tremendously difficult experience for any parent, and seeking treatment can feel overwhelming. Understandably, parents might have concerns about the clinical polygraphs used at Oxbow Academy. These polygraphs are implemented as a therapeutic tool, not a punitive measure, to help boys on their path toward healing. They aim to provide clarity and understanding in a safe and supportive environment, ultimately fostering trust and growth within families. Therapist and podcast host Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, sits down with Shawn Brooks, the Executive Director of Oxbow Academy, and Jared Rockwood, LCSW, a polygraph examiner at Oxbow Academy. Here are the main topics discussed in this episode of the podcast: Oxbow's Polygraph Journey: The podcast traces how polygraphs became integral to Oxbow's treatment, from initial hesitation to research-backed implementation.Ethical and Safe Practices: Oxbow prioritizes careful preparation and support for students undergoing polygraph testing to mitigate potential harm and foster a safe environment.Truth as the Foundation: The episode stresses the importance of honesty in the healing process, with the polygraph aiding in uncovering the truth and enabling deeper therapeutic work.Positive Treatment Impacts: Polygraph use is linked to faster treatment progress, academic improvement, and positive behavior changes.Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizing the prevalence of trauma, the podcast highlights how polygraphs, used within a safe therapeutic framework, can facilitate trauma processing and healing.At Oxbow Academy, we strive to help teens and their families heal and re-establish trust between one another. This podcast episode helps explain how clinical polygraphs are used to help students tell the truth in a safe environment without judgment. Oxbow empowers boys to take responsibility, address underlying trauma, and work towards a brighter future alongside their families.

    1 hr

  5. 01/29/2025 · VIDEO

    Truth & Healing: Using Therapeutic Polygraphs for Adolescent Therapy

    *Disclaimer-* Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your situation. It can be incredibly distressing and confusing when your son is struggling with problematic or compulsive sexual behaviors. You may feel a wide range of emotions - from fear and anger to helplessness and shame. Please know that these feelings are normal and you are not alone. This podcast episode offers insight and support for parents navigating this complex issue. Podcast host and therapist Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, interviews Oxbow Academy Executive Director Shawn Brooks and Oxbow Academy polygraph examiner, Jared Rockwood, LCSW. In this episode, these experts discuss: The Role of Polygraph Tests in Teen Treatment: Experts discuss how polygraph tests can uncover factors contributing to anxiety, such as past trauma or undisclosed behaviors.Clinical vs. Forensic Polygraphs: An explanation of the differences, focusing on the therapeutic and supportive approach used in clinical settings.Addressing Concerns About Accuracy and Harm: A look at polygraph accuracy, potential risks, and the importance of proper preparation and compassion.Real-Life Impact of Polygraphs: Stories of how polygraphs have helped teens open up, resulting in more effective treatment and lasting healing.At Oxbow Academy, polygraph tests are carefully integrated into the therapeutic process to encourage honesty and help teens feel safe enough to share their full story. By gaining a clear understanding of a teen’s sexual history, including any instances of victimization or harmful behaviors, therapists can address the root cause of the problem and develop a personalized treatment plan. This approach helps teen boys and their families heal and build a healthier future together. Worried About Your Son’s Sexual Behavior? Call Us Now: 855-676-4272

    1h 29m

  6. 06/18/2024 · VIDEO

    Porn Addiction Treatment for Teens: When Professional Help Becomes Essential

    Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy. Please always seek a mental health professional for your specific situation. — As a parent of a teen, it's crucial to recognize when escalating problematic sexual behaviors necessitate professional intervention. Despite these challenges, commitment to change brings hope for growth and healing. Join Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, and Meredith Barney, the Clinical Director of Oxbow Academy as they discuss: Ensuring proper care through an evaluation period, including clinical polygraphs and psychosexual assessments.How a sex-specific residential treatment approach can help facilitate lasting change with the students.The importance of strong family support and involvement throughout the therapeutic process.Concerned about your teen's escalating sexual behaviors? Don't wait. Get the support you need now. Oxbow Academy can help. We offer personalized support for families facing these challenges. Visit OxbowAcademy.net or call 855-676-4272 to learn how we can guide your family toward healing.

    18 min

  7. 06/17/2024 · VIDEO

    Effects a Teen Porn Addiction Has on Families: How Porn Addiction Erodes Family Relationships

    Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy. Please always seek a mental health professional for your specific situation. — The pervasive influence of pornography addiction touches countless families. It erodes trust, fosters shame, and distorts healthy relationships. It’s important to understand how family dynamics play a role in helping your child heal. Join Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, and Meredith Barney, the Clinical Director of Oxbow Academy as they discuss: Effective strategies for rebuilding trust and nurturing understanding.The imperative role of professional family therapy in confronting these challenges head-on.The transformative power of open dialogue and the pursuit of forgiveness within the family unit.Concerned about your teen's escalating sexual behaviors? Don't wait. Get the support you need now. Oxbow Academy can help. We offer personalized support for families facing these challenges. Visit OxbowAcademy.net or call 855-676-4272 to learn how we can guide your family toward healing.

    29 min

  8. 06/11/2024 · VIDEO

    Effects of Porn Addiction on Teens: Breaking the Cycle of Shame and Isolation in Teens

    Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy. Please always seek a mental health professional for your specific situation. — When a teenager views pornography, it can create a cycle of shame and isolation, exacerbating mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Teens may turn to pornography due to feelings of loneliness or trauma, and this behavior can further isolate them, making them feel unworthy and disconnected from family and friends. Join Tiffany Herlin, LCSW, and Meredith Barney, the Clinical Director of Oxbow Academy as they discuss: Understanding the impact of pornography on teenage mental health.Recognizing the signs that your teen may struggle with pornography.Learning how to help teens overcome shame and isolation through building relationships and having honest, open communication.Concerned about your teen's escalating sexual behaviors? Don't wait. Get the support you need now. Oxbow Academy can help. We offer personalized support for families facing these challenges. Visit OxbowAcademy.net or call 855-676-4272 to learn how we can guide your family toward healing.

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

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6 Ratings

About

Disclaimer- Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for therapy, nor do we provide legal advice. Please always seek a mental health professional and lawyer for your situation. Trigger warning - This podcast contains an in-depth discussion about sexual abuse and may be triggering for people who've experienced a sexual assault. If you are a victim of rape or sexual abuse and need assistance please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673). Welcome to "Navigating Problematic Sexual Behaviors in Teens," the podcast designed to support and empower parents of teenage boys who are struggling with problematic sexual behaviors. We understand that parenting through these challenges can be tough, and that's why we're here to provide you with valuable insights, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you on this journey. Join us as we navigate this journey together, offering you the tools and understanding you need to support your teenage son's mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being. Remember, you're not alone in this, and with the right information and support, you can guide your son toward a healthier and happier path.

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