Girls' Camps for Troubled Teens in Texas

Camps for troubled teens include elements like discipline programs, cognitive behavioral counseling, peer support and wilderness adventures. These camps are sometimes referred to as boarding schools or residential treatment centers. In the past 10 years, several deaths at camps for troubled teens sparked investigations in Texas and throughout the United States. Teens reported physical, psychological and sexual abuse. While legitimate camps do exist, it's important to check the history and credentials thoroughly.

  1. Resolution Ranch

    • Resolution Ranch is an educational and therapeutic program for troubled teens located on 450 acres near Temple, Texas. Residents live with counselors who act as mentors and role models. Resolution Ranch utilizes a 12-step program modified from the Narcotics Anonymous program. Students move through five levels of study before graduating from the program. The school emphasizes interpersonal relationships and peer interaction, which is encouraged through teen-led group therapy sessions.

      Students participate in wilderness adventures, study horticulture and learn about gardening. Formal education is delivered online through the PLATO curriculum. The program provides transition support services for two months following graduation. Resolution Ranch is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

      Resolution Ranch

      2274 Cameron Street

      Cameron, TX 76520

      (254) 697-2923

      resolutionranch.com

    Heartlight

    • Heartlight, located near Longview, Texas, on a 100-acre ranch, offers counseling and education through a 9- to 12-month program. A strong focus is placed on rehabilitating relationships within the family. Parents receive counseling along with the teen. The program is Christian-based but church attendance and religious participation is not required. Heartlight explicitly rejects the use of corporal punishment; discipline is administered with loss of privileges and additional chores. Heartlight's academic staff administers a Texas Tech correspondence program for new residents. Students can earn the opportunity to attend the local high school by working through a series of levels that measure progress.

      Heartlight

      7345 E. Highway 80

      Hallsville, TX 75650

      (903) 668-2173

      heartlightministries.org

    Warnings

    • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that boot camps, also referred to as residential treatment programs, are not regulated by the U.S. government. Most programs do not require state licensing or monitoring. The FTC urges those considering boot camps and residential treatment centers to check credentials of staff, inquire about any state licensing and check with agencies such as the Better Business Bureau and the state Attorney General's office.

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