Guidance, Support, and Care Every Step of the Way

If your child is struggling with trauma or mental health challenges, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our admissions team is here to guide you through the process, from determining eligibility to gathering records and completing the state-required application. We provide ongoing support, answer your questions, and coordinate with external agencies and your child's school to start them on a path toward healing, growth, and becoming their best self.

Is your child eligible?

  • Between 10 and 17 years old
  • Has worked with an outpatient mental health team who feels your child needs more structured care

How we help:

  • Walk you through eligibility and admissions: We’ll talk through your child’s needs and help you determine if residential treatment is the right fit.
  • Assist with records and application: We’ll help you gather medical and school records and guide you through submitting the required Universal Application.
  • Provide ongoing support: From your first call to placement, we walk with you, answering questions, coordinating with the state, and making sure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Comprehensive Care at
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch

Therapy and Psychiatric Services

The Ranch is a place of hope and healing, where children, ages 10-17, receive best-in-class psychiatric and mental health care.

Trauma-Responsive
Education

The Ranch's on-campus school, Dakota Memorial School, supports students with complex learning needs due to psychiatric, behavioral, and trauma issues.

Family
Involvement 


A child heals best with active family involvement. We offer ongoing support and therapy, encourage regular calls and visits, and keep you informed through weekly check-ins and updates.

Safe and
Secure Setting

The Ranch provides round-the-clock support for children and adolescents who need intensive, specialized care.

Wellness
Programming

Wellness and physical activity are essential to mental health and healing. Wellness staff provide residents with physical activity, new experiences, and the chance to practice their social skills.

Christ-Centered
Care 


At the Ranch, we bring spirituality into the healing process through voluntary participation in Chapel and Spiritual Life groups. The teachings and love of Christ are the foundation of all we do.

If it weren’t for the Ranch, I’d probably be dead or in prison.”

– Former Ranch resident