Three teenagers sit closely, deeply engaged in conversation. The girl in the middle wears ripped jeans and gestures intently. The mood is serious and focused.

Supporting Youth Through Behavioral Challenges

At McKinley, we understand that every child’s behaviors reflect their experiences and needs. Our Short Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP) provides a safe, structured environment where boys ages 8–17 receive individualized support to manage challenges, build skills, and grow toward long-term stability. Using trauma-informed care, our team works closely with each child to address the underlying causes of behavior while fostering confidence, resilience, and hope.

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Three boys play tug-of-war on a sandy beach. They pull a rope, appearing determined and focused, with a lake and trees in the background.

Meeting Children Where They Are

Children in foster care and residential programs often face behavioral challenges linked to past trauma, developmental needs, or difficult life experiences. At McKinley, we create personalized treatment plans that help boys safely navigate these challenges and learn healthier coping skills.

  • Running away or withdrawing from group settings (retreating to cottages, avoiding activities)
  • Autism spectrum needs (mild to moderate) — supported through structure, patience, and specialized care
  • Lack of social skills and difficulty connecting with peers
  • Increased verbal or physical aggression
  • Developmental support for self-care and daily living skills
  • Substance use and recovery support
  • Trauma-linked behaviors tied to abuse or neglect
Background detail
Background detail

Trauma-Informed and Individualized Care

No two children are the same. Our behavioral support plans combine structure, therapy, and family-style care to meet each boy’s needs. Staff and clinicians work together to ensure children receive consistent guidance in their cottages, during school, and in therapy sessions. Every plan is regularly reviewed to track progress and adjust as needed.

  • Consistent routines to provide safety and predictability
  • Clinical support from therapists and mental health rehabilitation specialists
  • Skill-building groups for social, emotional, and daily living skills
  • Positive reinforcement to encourage healthy choices
  • Specialized care for autism spectrum and trauma-linked needs
A woman and a boy sit on a couch, engaging in interactive communication. The boy raises his hands expressively, conveying focus and connection.
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Stories of Growth and Healing

Many of the boys in our care have overcome behavioral challenges to rediscover stability and hope. Stories from youth and families will be shared here in the future to highlight resilience and progress made possible through McKinley’s Residential Services.

Three children, smiling and focused, are drawing with colored pencils at a table. Their art supplies and a brick wall are visible in the background.

Learn More About Behavioral Support

If you are a school, agency, or caregiver seeking residential care for a child with behavioral challenges, McKinley’s intake team can help. Use the referral form below to begin the process, and our team will follow up with next steps.

Learn more about McKinley’s Residential Services program.

Residential Services
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