Utah is, to my knowledge, the only state that lets schools/programs physically keep the student until they are 18. In other words, doors can be locked and kids that do manage to walk out can be brought back, willing or not. That may be one reason why so many programs are located there. And yes, some of the programs are bad and earned bad press. BUT there are also a great many excellent options in Utah. Like anywhere, you need to do your research.
Anxiety and depression are issues most programs should address in some form, but I'm not familiar with Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED). The little I have read however, suggested to me that a long term program may not be needed, and that a combination of focused therapy and some medication may work well. Many here recommend a neuropsychologist exam, and as you said no one can find anything to account for the change in 9th grade, if he's not seen a neuropsychologist, perhaps he should before you spend substantial sums on a hope that a program will help without knowing what they may be dealing with.
As for your Easy Child, I can only guess at why an out-of-country placement would be the single recommendation. And, if it is the program I think, I'd not have suggested it either. You might do well researching some programs yourself. I'll send a pm answering your questions, and suggesting a couple of established places you might find worthwhile. But still, a neuropsychologist exam might be best as the next step ... even if it means some weeks of your son's behavior at home again.
