• Suicide and Crisis Line (650) 424-8420.
• Search by keyword "Crisis Counseling"
• Explore the site area "Mental Health and Counseling"

Where do I go for my parking violation?

• The Parking Citation Office is behind the Mitchell Park Library.

Who do I call about barking dogs?

• Call Dispatch at (650) 329-2413.

Basic Needs Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

Are there any financial assistance programs in Palo Alto?

• Yes. The City has a Fee Reduction Program for classes offered in the Enjoy Catalogue 650-329-2375, and a Utility Rate Assistance Program (650) 329-2161. Each has qualification criteria.

Where can I go to get food for my family?

• Second Harvest Food Bank and Urban Ministry of Palo Alto offer groceries in our community at various locations according to various schedules. Meals are provided at Self Help for the Elderly, Chinese Community Center of the Peninsula, La Comida de California, and Urban Ministry of Palo Alto for various communities according to various schedules. Call the City's Office of Human Services for more details (650) 329-2375.

I am looking for a job with the City of Palo Alto.

• Call the City Job Hotline (650) 329-2222.

 
I'm having a dispute with my landlord / neighbor.

• Call Palo Alto Mediation Program (650) 856-4062.

Child Care Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

Where can I find a listing of the child care programs in Palo Alto?

• The City of Palo Alto's Office of Human Services provides maps and listings of all licensed child care centers and homes in Palo Alto. To obtain a listing, call 650-329-2280 or visit the City of Palo Alto's website at: www.city.palo-alto.ca.us/humanservices/childcare.html

How much does child care cost?

• The cost of child care varies, depending on the age of the child, as well as the specific program. Average monthly costs for full -time child care in Palo Alto in 1999 were:
  Infant (2 months to 2 years) $ 1150
  Preschool (2 - 5 years) $ 900
  School Age (Kindergarten) $ 450
  School Age (Grades 1-5) $ 380

What programs does the City run?

• The City of Palo Alto does not operate any licensed child care programs. The City's Recreation Division does, however, offer classes for preschoolers such as "Active Arts for Parents & Tots" and "Kinderschool". For more information about these classes, call 650-329-2261.

Is PACCC part of the City of Palo Alto?

• No, Palo Alto Community Child Care (PACCC) is a separate non-profit organization which operates fourteen licensed child care centers in Palo Alto. PACCC also offers technical assistance, trainings, and support to child care providers through "The Provider Connection", a resource room open to all child care providers. Additionally, PACCC administers the City of Palo Alto's Child Care Subsidy Program, available to income-eligible Palo Alto residents.

How do I find out if a particular child care center has had any complaints filed?

• The California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division is the statewide licensing authority for child care. Parents who are interested in reading through a program's licensing file may do so by calling 408-277-1286. In addition, all child care centers are visited annually by a Licensing Analyst, who prepares a written report. Recent legislation now requires child care providers to make these licensing reports available to parents if they request it.

What is the difference between licensing and accreditation?

• Licensing is a requirement imposed by the state, and mainly focuses on minimum health and safety standards. Accreditation is a voluntary process in which a program participates in a "self study", which is then reviewed by a panel of child care experts. Accredited programs generally far exceed licensing standards, because of the level of detail at which a program is evaluated and rated.

Where can I find a babysitter?

• The City of Palo Alto does not maintain any information regarding babysitting. Families generally find a babysitter through word-of-mouth.

Where can I find financial assistance to help pay for my child care?

• There are several options for obtaining financial assistance for child care. Palo Alto residents may participate in the City of Palo Alto's Child Care Subsidy Program if they meet the income guidelines. Non-residents may participate in the County's Subsidy Program which is also based on income eligibility. For more information about subsidized child care in Palo Alto, call 650-493-2361.

How do I establish a new family child care home?

• Family child care homes are allowed "by right" in Palo Alto. They do not require a special permit from the City of Palo Alto, although they are required to be licensed by the state. Call 408-277-1286 for information on start-up orientations or to obtain a copy of the licensing regulations.

Who can I talk to about starting-up a new child care center?

• The California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division offers orientations for child care start-up. Call 408-277-1286 to sign up or to get more information.

Who is responsible for licensing child care?

• The California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division is the licensing authority for child care in Palo Alto. For more information or to obtain a copy of the California licensing regulations, call 408-277-1286.

What is the City of Palo Alto's role with respect to starting a new child care center in Palo Alto?

• The City requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for all child care centers that are not located in a commercial zone. This process requires a review by the Zoning Administrator. In some circumstances, final approval by the City of Palo Alto's Planning Commission and City Council may be required. Once a CUP is granted, the City's Architectural Review Board must approve the project. In addition, the Fire Marshall must approve the center's compliance with the Uniform Building Code before the state will grant the license. For more information about the City of Palo Alto's role with respect to zoning issues, call 650-329-2280.

I am new to the area and would like to enroll my child in PAUSD schools. What do I do?

• The City of Palo Alto and Palo Alto Unified School District are two separate entities. For information about school enrollment, call the main number at the Palo Alto Unified School District: (650) 329-3715.

Is there an after-school program at my child's elementary school where he/she can go in between the time that school lets out and the end of the work day?

• Yes, all twelve elementary schools in Palo Alto offer on-site after-school programs. Space is limited so it is suggested you register as soon as you know where your child will be attending school. For more information about these after-school programs, call 650-329-2280.

What are my options if the after-school program at my child's elementary school is full?

• There are several off-site school age programs that provide transportation from the elementary schools to their program. For more information about these after-school programs, call 650-329-2280.

How many licensed child care centers and family child care homes are there in Palo Alto?

• There are 54 licensed child care centers and 25 licensed child care homes.

How far in advance must I sign up to get into the child care program of my choice?

• In recent years, the demand for child care in Palo Alto has skyrocketed, resulting in waiting lists at many centers and family child care homes. Therefore, it is suggested that you begin the application process for the program(s) of your choice as soon as possible. Each child care program has its own enrollment and waiting list process, so it is best to check in with the program on a regular basis until a space becomes available.

Community Resources Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

I'm looking for a specific service. Where can I go to find out what's in the area?

• Family Resources. Search this website. (650) 329-2221. United Way of Santa Clara County, First Call for Help (650) 325-4636.

How do I contact social services?

• For Santa Clara County (650) 314-1300. For San Mateo County (650) 363-4187.

I found/lost a pet. Who should I call?

• Palo Alto Animal Services (650) 496-5971.

Where can I go to volunteer my time?

• Volunteer Exchange of Santa Clara County (650) 965-2426. Community Impact (650) 965-0242. Seniors: Avenidas RSVP program (650) 326-5362. Family Resources website: "Volunteer Opps".

Who takes donations in the area?

• Food
  Urban Ministry of Palo Alto, Food Closet (650) 853-8672 Bread Basket (650) 366-8561 Second Harvest Food Bank of SCC and SMC (650) 610-0800
  
• Clothing
  Local Shelters - search by keyword "Shelter". Goodwill of Santa Clara County (650) 494-1416 Salvation Army (408) 282-1165 PARCA (650) 312-0730
  
• Furniture / Household items
  Local Shelters - search by keyword "Shelter". Goodwill Industries (650) 494-1416 Salvation Army (408) 282-1165

Who should I call to lodge a complaint against a business in Palo Alto?

• California Department of Consumer Affairs (800) 952-5210. Santa Clara County Office of the District Attorney, Consumer Protection Unit (408) 792-2880.

What are local attractions for families with young children?

• The Children's Library (650) 329-2134
• The Junior Museum & Petting Zoo (650) 329-2111
• The Children's Theater (650) 329-2216
• Seasonal special events - see the City of Palo Alto, Enjoy Catalogue
• The Duck Pond at the Baylands, between the Palo Alto Airport and the Lucy Evans Bayland Interpretive Center (650) 329-2506
• The Winter Lodge (outdoor ice skating) (650) 493-4566
• Hidden Villa (farm, camps, environmental education) (650) 949-8650
• Kelley Park (children's amusement park) (408) 227-4573

In general, how far ahead must I plan in order to participate in programs and activities in Palo Alto?

• The answer to this question depends on the popularity of the program/activity. It is advisable to inquire ahead of time to find out about previous registration levels. However, there is no way to predict unexpected levels of interest and response.

Can I assume that mail in registration for summer programs as advertised in the Enjoy catalogue, for example, will assure a place in the class?

• Not necessarily. Call ahead to be advised about the popularity of the program/activity. Use your judgement accordingly, but remember that there can be no promises or guarantees.

Can I find out which classes/programs/activities offered in the Enjoy catalogue are still open?

• If you have the name of the class or the class code number, three Community Centers can give you this information: Mitchell Park Community Center (329-2487), Lucie Stern Community Center (329-2239), and the Art Center (329-2227).

How can I register for classes within the City of Palo Alto?

• You can register at any one of the City's following community centers: Mitchell park community Center, Lucie Stern community Center, the Junior Museum, and the Art Center (formerly the Cultural Center).

How can I reserve park space or community rooms?

• Go to Lucie Stern Community Center. There you can obtain directions, a park reservations brochure, and a park map.

Can we have alcohol at our individual park site?

• No. Alcohol is only permitted at group sites and only if the group has provided the City with the required liability insurance certificate.

Do I need to reserve a tennis court?

• Tennis courts may be reserved for tournament use only. They are available in the parks for individual use on a first come, first served basis.

Do I need to reserve an athletic field?

• Yes. By completing a field use application, available at the Cubberley Community Center, T2, you may reserve athletic fields. Call 329-2697 for reservations.

Are volleyball, softball and other sport equipment available to rent or check out?

• No. This service ended with the passage of Proposition 13.

What are the Mitchell Park wading pool hours?

• The wading pool is open six days a week, Monday through Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm. The pool is approximately one foot deep. Children must wear swim diapers.

Is there a procedure to restrict traffic for a neighborhood block party?

• Yes. You can obtain Block Party Street Closure Permits from the Police Department or from Family Resources.

What is considered proof of residency?

• A Driver's License, utility bill, phone bill, bank checks, or City employee card are acceptable forms of identification. Stanford, Los Altos, Menlo Park, East Palo Alto, Mountain View residents are not considered Palo Alto residents.

Am I considered a resident if I work in Palo Alto?

• If the Palo Alto company is actually sponsoring the picnic or event then the host company and its guests are considered residents. If the company is not the sponsor, then employees are not eligible for resident status.

Disability Resources Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

How can I get help at home? How can I find respite care?

• Search the Family Resources databases using the keyword "Home Care/Assistance" or "Respite Care".

Education Frequently Asked Questions And Answers
Family Resources offers information about public (Palo Alto Unified School District) and private education (search keyword "Private Education" and see Education "Highlights").

How do I register my child for school?

• The Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) has timely information about registration on their website and by phone at (650) 329-3700. Enrollment forms may be completed on line from their website. Private schools must be investigated individually. Search by keyword "Private Education".

What are the school district boundaries?

• Maps of the school district boundaries can be found in Info Palo Alto, a publication of the Palo Alto Weekly, or by checking the Palo Alto Unified School District website.

Am I assured of enrollment in my neighborhood or alternative school? If not, what are the conditions?

• It is in your best interest to inquire about the Palo Alto Unified School District educational programs and their availability to your child at least a year in advance of enrollment. Palo Alto has an open enrollment policy for its neighborhood and alternative schools. Generally, students are assigned to the school closest to the family residence, but requests to attend other schools within the District will be accommodated on a space available basis. The demand for alternative school placement sometimes exceeds enrollment capacity, and a lottery may determine selection.

What (and when) must I do in advance?

• Parents should become familiar with the educational opportunities and availability to their children at least a year in advance of enrollment, by inquiring of the PAUSD, individual private schools of interest, and through discussions with other parents of young children.

Where are ESL classes held?

• The Palo Alto Adult School offers English as a Second Language classes. The Adult School Catalogue, available at Libraries, the Adult School offices, and at Family Resources, has detailed information. All ESL students must first take a placement test offered Mondays and Wednesdays at 9AM, beginning on September 1, in the Cubberley Community Center, RM A-3. No pre-registration is required for the placement test. Call the main office at (650) 329-3752 for more information.

Health Care Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

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Mental Health & Counseling Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

Are there alternative schools I can send my child to if the special education program at her school is not meeting her needs?

• There are non-public and private special education schools in the area that provide therapeutic special education services. In order to attend most of these schools, your child must already be enrolled in Special Education through her local school districts. To consider a placement you must discuss a referral with the Special Education Department of your local school district, and a placement needs to be approved by the IEP (Individualized Education Program) Team. Once a referral has been made by the IEP Team, a school visit will be arranged. Once this happens, the student may come to the school for a 30-45 day initial assessment period to determine if there is an appropriate fit between the program and the needs of the student and family. One of these schools is the Esther B. Clark School at The Children's Health Council. Questions and informational material about the school program can be directed to Judy McDermond at (650) 688-3634.

What is play therapy and what should I tell my child about it before it begins?

• Some children experience difficulties in making adjustments to school, home or friends, or have other problems that bring them to a therapist. Play therapy provides an opportunity for them to work through these problems in a supportive, permissive, and age-appropriate context. Adults find insight and relief by talking over their difficulties with a therapist. Usually children cannot easily express their thoughts and feelings in words, but they can communicate their problems through the unique play that evolves with a well-trained, objective and understanding therapist.
  
  Before the first therapy session, a child should be told the name of the therapist, that he or she will be visiting the therapist in an office with toys, that the therapist understands children, and that the therapist is there to talk and play with children. If the child has further questions, he or she can be told that it often helps children to have someone they can talk to and play with alone. Parents may also tell their child that they want the family to be as happy as possible and that they, the parents, are also going to talk with the therapist.

How is confidentiality treated when a child is seeing a therapist?

• Parents are typically asked to appreciate that this is the child's own private hour with the therapist. The privacy or "confidentiality" of the therapy session is often useful to assure the child that there will be no punishment for the feelings and/or events that the child will discuss or reveal during the sessions. This often helps to minimize a child's guilt or reluctance at self-expression. As parents, you are to be assured that the therapist will be working with you to help you assure the healthy growth and development of the child in your family, in the child's school, with the child's friends, etc. Parents should speak openly with the therapist concerning the child's and family's difficulties in order to further that goal.

What is Asperger Syndrome and what should I do if I suspect my child has it?

• (Adapted from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Facts for Families)
  
  Asperger Syndrome is the term for a specific type of pervasive developmental disorder which is characterized by problems in development of social skills and behavior. In the past, many children with Asperger Syndrome were diagnosed as having autism, another of the pervasive developmental disorders, or other disorders. While autism and Asperger's have certain similarities, there are also important differences. For this reason, children suspected of having these conditions require careful evaluation.
  
  In general, a child with Asperger Syndrome functions at a higher level than the typical child with autism. For example, many children with Asperger's Disorder have normal intelligence. While most children with autism fail to develop language or have language delays, children with Asperger Syndrome are usually using words by the age of two, although their speech patterns may be somewhat odd.
  
  Most children with Asperger Syndrome have difficulty interacting with their peers. A child with Asperger's, for example, may spend hours each day preoccupied with counting cars passing on the street or watching only the weather channel on television. Coordination difficulties are also common with this disorder. These children often have special educational needs.
  
  Although the cause of Asperger Syndrome is not yet known, current research suggests that a tendency toward the condition may run in families. Child and adolescent psychiatrists have the training and expertise to evaluate pervasive developmental disorders like autism and Asperger Syndrome. They can also work with families to design appropriate and effective treatment programs. The CHC has diagnostic services available for pervasive developmental disorders; interested families should contact us for more information.

Are there any group programs I can enroll my child in that work on social skills?

• The Children's Health Council has two types of groups that help children work on social skills. Children who have repeated failure in social interactions with teachers and peers are at risk for developing low self-esteem and negative ways of coping with stress. The Friends Program is a program serving children ages 3 to 7 that seeks to create a supportive peer group environment which facilitates a child's ability to have a successful group experience. The goal of the group is to increase the child's awareness of herself and others, and to develop the social skills needed to build positive social relationships. Parents are encouraged to take an active role in the program to facilitate their child's success.
  
  The Children's Health Council's Social Skills group serves slightly older children. A typical session includes a daily lesson, therapeutic recreation time, and a brief snack and wrap-up at the end. Lessons could include: how to join groups, how to deal with rejection and teasing, impulse control strategies, anger management, and general friendship skills. Parents are included by meeting once per month in a parents' group where they receive feedback and can bring up any concerns.
  
  Admission to both groups requires an evaluation and that there be an open space in the program. For more information, please call our Intake line at (650) 688-3623.

I hear a lot about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)- what is it and what do I do if I suspect my child has ADHD?

• (Adapted from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Facts for Families)
  
  Any child may show inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, or hyperactivity at times, but the child with ADHD shows these symptoms and behaviors more frequently and severely than other children of the same age or developmental level. ADHD occurs in 3-5% of school age children. ADHD must begin before the age of seven and it can continue into adulthood. ADHD runs in families with about 25% of biological parents also having this medical condition.
  
  A child with ADHD often shows some of the following:
  
  - trouble paying attention
  - inattention to details and makes careless mistakes
  - easily distracted
  - loses school supplies, forgets to turn in homework
  - trouble finishing class work and homework
  - trouble listening and following multiple adult commands
  - blurts out answers
  - impatience
  - fidgets or squirms
  - leaves seat and runs about or climbs excessively
  - seems "on the go"
  - talks too much and has difficulty playing quietly
  - interrupts or intrudes on others
  
  A child presenting with ADHD symptoms must have a comprehensive evaluation. A child with ADHD may have other psychiatric disorders such as conduct disorder, anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, or manic-depressive disorder. Without proper treatment, the child may fall behind in schoolwork, and friendships may suffer. The child experiences more failure than success and is criticized by teachers and family who do not recognize a health problem.
  
  Treatment approaches may include medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy, social skills training, parent education, and modifications to the child's education program. The Children's Health Council evaluates and treats children with ADHD- please call us for more information.

What are speech and language disorders, and what should I do if I suspect my child has a speech, language, or hearing problem?

• (Adapted from American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities)
  
  A child's communication is considered delayed when the child is noticeably behind his or her peers in the acquisition of speech and/or language skills. Sometimes a child will have greater receptive (understanding) than expressive (speaking) language skills, but this is not always the case.
  
  Speech disorders refer to difficulties producing speech sounds or problems with voice quality. They might be characterized by an interruption in the flow or rhythm of speech, such as stuttering. Speech disorders may be problems with the way sounds are formed, called articulation or phonological disorders, or they may be difficulties with the pitch, volume or quality of the voice. People with speech disorders have trouble using some speech sounds, which can also be a symptom of a delay.
  
  A language disorder is an impairment in the ability to understand and/or use words in context, both verbally and nonverbally. Some characteristics of language disorders include improper use of words and their meanings, inability to express ideas, inappropriate grammatical patterns, reduced vocabulary and inability to follow directions. One or a combination of these characteristics may occur in children who are affected by language learning disabilities or developmental language delay. Children may hear or see a word but not be able to understand its meaning. They may have trouble getting others to understand what they are trying to communicate.
  
  A thorough evaluation by a speech-language pathologist or audiologist is needed to determine a child's communication strengths and weaknesses. After this evaluation, the speech-language pathologist or audiologist will be able to provide a plan for meeting individual needs.
  
  Speech-language pathologists are professionals educated in the study of human communication, its development, and its disorders. By evaluating the speech, language, cognitive-communication, and swallowing skills of children and adults, the speech-language pathologist determines what communication or swallowing problems exist and the best way to treat them.
  
  Speech-language pathologists assist children who have communication disorders in various ways. They provide individual therapy for the child; consult with the child's teacher about the most effective ways to facilitate the child's communication in the class setting; and work closely with the family to develop goals and techniques for effective therapy in class and at home. The Children's Health Council has speech and language evaluation and therapy services available- please call us for more information.

What is Occupational Therapy (OT) and where can I find OT services in the area?

• (Adapted from the American Occupational Therapy Association)
  
  Occupational therapy is skilled treatment that helps individuals achieve independence in all facets of their lives. Occupational Therapy gives people the "Skills for the Job of Living" they need to live satisfying lives. Children who can benefit from occupational therapy may include those with birth injuries, learning problems, or developmental disabilities mental health or behavioral problems.
  
  Services typically include: treatment programs aimed at improving abilities to carry out the activities of daily living, including work on fine and gross motor skills tailored to the child's needs.
  
  Occupational therapy practitioners are skilled professionals. The occupational therapist enters the field with a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree. Occupational therapy education includes study of human growth and development with specific emphasis on the social, emotional, and physiological effects of illness and injury. The Children's Health Council has occupational therapy assessment and therapy services- please call us if you are interested.

Where can I find good information on parenting issues or on my child's behavioral and emotional health?

• Many books have been written on parenting and children's health, but with so many out there, it is hard to know if you are getting quality information. One place you can visit is The Resource Center at The Children's Health Council. The Resource Center at The Children's Health Council promotes healthy families by providing specialized information and resources to families, caregivers, and community professionals to help them find answers to their questions about children's behavior and development. The Resource Center is open to the public, and use of materials onsite is free. Memberships are available for those who wish to check out books and tapes. The membership fee is $35 per year, but there is also a reduced fee and fee waiver available if a client is not able to pay the fee.
  
  The Resource Center has over 450 books, audiotapes and videotapes on subjects ranging from attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, nonverbal learning disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, learning differences and autism to sibling relationships, discipline, challenging behavior, child development and working parents. All of our books and tapes have been approved by a CHC clinician or educator. We also have over 45 subject files containing articles and other information that visitors may read in The Resource Center and copy for free! We offer clients various parent newsletters, brochures from many Bay Area agencies and community resources, and two Internet terminals for client use.
  
  We also offer:
  
  - Information for every level, from popular to clinical
  - Books and materials written for children
  - Free Internet access and assisted information searches
  - Comfortable, friendly, confidential environment
  - Knowledgeable resource professional and trained volunteers to assist you
  - Information about CHC programs and related services in the surrounding community
  
  In addition to the information provided at The Resource Center, the CHC also has a Parent Education program that is open to the community. The program offers different parenting classes each quarter and also offers individual consultations with parent educators for parents who wish to discuss specific parenting questions.
  
  Please stop by or call us at (650) 617-3845 for more information.

What are learning differences or learning disorders and what services are available to children with LD?

• (Adapted from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)
  
  The term "learning difference" or "learning disability" (both may be shortened to LD) refers to a difficulty with the nervous system that affects receiving, processing, or communicating information. Parents should be aware of the most frequent signals of learning disabilities, when a child:
  
  - has difficulty understanding and following instructions.
  - has trouble remembering what someone just told him or her.
  - fails to master reading, spelling, writing, and/or math skills, and thus fails schoolwork.
  - has difficulty distinguishing right from left
  - difficulty identifying words or a tendency to reverse letters, words, or numbers
  - lacks coordination in walking, sports, or small activities such as holding a pencil or tying a shoelace.
  - easily loses or misplaces homework, schoolbooks, or other items.
  - cannot understand the concept of time; is confused by "yesterday," "today," "tomorrow."
  
  If parents notice these problems in their child, they should request a comprehensive evaluation by an expert who can assess all of the different issues affecting the child. A child and adolescent psychiatrist can help coordinate the evaluation, and work with school professionals and others to have the evaluation and educational testing done to clarify if a learning disability exists. The child and adolescent psychiatrist will then make recommendations on appropriate school placement, the need for special help such as special educational services or speech-language therapy and help parents assist their child in maximizing his or her learning potential. The Children's Health Council performs assessment for LD and also offers educational tutoring for children with learning differences. Please call us for details.

Does the City of Palo Alto provide housing for teenagers who can not live at home?

• Adolescent Counseling Services (ACS) runs a residential treatment facility (group home) called Caravan House that serves the needs of teenage girls between the ages of 12 to 18.

Who funds group homes in Palo Alto?

• Funding for program residents is provided by the Santa Clara Department of Social Services.

My child's grades have been slipping and he seems secretive at home. Is he using drugs or is such behavior the result of the normal changes of adolescence?

• Adolescents make a difficult transition when they leave grade school and enter middle school. You may notice your child trying on new behaviors such as changing his peer group, talking on the phone more, or closing his door. These changes are normal developmentally and can usually be viewed as in keeping with your child's personality. Teens who are using drugs and alcohol go above and beyond these changes in a short period of time. You might notice significant withdrawal as well as increased conflict and turmoil at home. Dramatic shifts in behavior such as blatant disregard for rules or running away may be signs of drug use. There are a few resources available in Palo Alto if you suspect your child is involved with drugs. Adolescent Counseling Services' Adolescent Substance Abuse Program provides intensive treatment for teens struggling with alcohol and/or drug addiction. The program provides assessment, treatment and continuing care in an outpatient setting, allowing families to stay intact as they work through the different stages of the program.

My teenager has been very stressed lately. She won't tell me what the problem is. Are there resources available at her high school in Palo Alto that can help her find someone to talk with?

Adolescent Counseling Services' On-Campus Counseling Program provides free counseling to students and families at Palo Alto High School, Gunn, Jordan, JLS, and at Menlo-Atherton High School. A carefully selected group of graduate and post-graduate counseling interns from local universities conduct the counseling. These interns are closely supervised by the Program Directors at each school. The Directors are licensed mental health professionals experienced in working with adolescents and their families. Guidance counselors at the school can also counsel your child. However, because these counselors see a large number of students, they do not have the time to regularly see the same student. ACS' counselors are able to see the same student on a regular basis for a number of sessions. In cases when even longer term counseling sessions are needed, counselors can refer students to outside resources.

I want to enroll my daughter in a substance abuse program. Is it important for me to also need to attend counseling sessions?

• Yes. Since substance abuse impacts all members, not just the user, mandated family participation is key to the success of a good substance abuse program.

How much does a substance abuse program cost?

• Costs may vary depending on the length and intensity of the program. Adolescent Counseling Services' Substance Abuse Program is an outpatient program that offers individual and group sessions. Individual sessions are $90/hour and group sessions are $45/hour. The program offers various ways for families to fund the counseling sessions if they can not afford the regular fee. Scholarships are available in addition to sliding fee arrangements.

I know my child needs outside help, but he is not open to participate in a substance abuse program. What do I do? Should I wait until he is ready to participate?

• This program is mandatory for any child that is abusing drugs and/or alcohol. Substance abuse is very difficult to overcome. Your child will need all your help to combat the problem. Just as you would help your child receive medical care if he/she was ill, you will need to help him/her get services for substance abuse problems. Adolescent Counseling Services' Substance Abuse Program will first assess your child to see if substance abuse is indeed the cause of your child's problems.