These resources provide information on evidenced-based and trauma-focused residential treatment centers. These treatment centers—also known as Qualified Residential Treatment Programs (QRTPs)—work with youth struggling with psychological, behavioral, and/or substance use issues to provide live-in services for those who are too ill or require services that are not available in a less secure or less restrictive environment. The 2018 Family First Prevention Services Act mandates that QRTPs receiving Federal funds must use a trauma-informed practice model; are staffed by registered or licensed staff who can provide care consistent with the treatment model; and are licensed and nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, the Council on Accreditation, or others approved organizations. Intensive residential treatment facilities are typically very structured and offer around-the-clock supervision and a variety of counseling, education, and therapy sessions. Placement in this type of a facility should be time limited and only considered if community-based services do not prove effective.
Can a Residential Treatment Provider Transform Into a Model for Prevention?
Casey Family Programs (2021)
Presents a discussion detailing how the Family First Prevention Services Act can be leveraged to improve the role of congregate care in supporting families and children before and after residential placements.
Comparison of Federal Requirements for Qualified Residential Treatment Programs (QRTP) and Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTF)
Building Bridges Initiative and the Annie E. Casey Foundation (2019)
Presents a comparison document to help address questions on qualified residential treatment programs (QRTPs) and psychiatric residential treatment facilities (PRTFs) as defined by the Family First Prevention Services Act. The resource outlines the Federal requirements of QRTPs and PRTFs to help States, providers, families, youth, and others understand the similarities and differences between the two.
How Does Children's Village Reflect the Components of a Qualified Residential Treatment Program?
Casey Family Programs (2019)
Examines how Children's Village outside New York City has transformed from an organization focused exclusively on residential care to one dedicated to community- and home-based services with only some use of residential care. The resource also discusses how Children's Village has transformed its business model to reflect the essential elements of a qualified residential treatment program.
How Is Santa Clara County, Calif., Moving to Safely Eliminate Group and Institutional Placements?
Casey Family Programs (2021)
Explains how increasing collaboration, tailoring recruitment efforts, and providing enhanced family-based supports has decreased the number of group and congregate care placements in Santa Clara County, CA.
Practical and Ethical Considerations in Providing Parent-Initiated Residential Treatment to Youth (PDF - 234 KB)
Stoner (2017)
Alcohol & Drug Abuse Institute
Provides guidance on keeping youth safe while supporting their autonomy when they do not consent to treatment. Furthermore, the guidance looks into literature that reviews the differences between parent-initiated treatment for substance use and co-occurring disorders and court-mandated treatment for juvenile offenders.
Psychiatric Residential Treatment
KVC Health Systems, Inc. (2020)
Provides information on what residential treatment includes and what to expect from a youth residential treatment program, including information about professional help and how mental health issues may be addressed to prevent long-term impacts on the health and wellness of residents.
Qualified Residential Treatment Program
Family First Virginia (2019)
Defines qualified residential treatment programs (QRTPs) as a new designation of non-family-based placements that serve children with specific treatment needs who require short-term placement out of their home. The resource outlines requirements for QRTPs under the Family First Prevention Services Act and the application process for programs to become accredited.