The Parkston Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) serves female adolescents ages 12–17 who are experiencing challenges related to legal involvement, school difficulties, or family concerns. Many youth in the program have also been impacted by chemical use—either through their own experiences or through the substance use of others. The program focuses on helping each youth develop healthier attitudes, stronger coping skills, and positive strategies to address the concerns that led to treatment.

 

Care is guided by Together Facing the Challenge (TFTC), an evidence-based treatment model that emphasizes relationship-building, skill development, and strength-based approaches. A multidisciplinary treatment team collaborates with each youth and her family to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to her unique needs and goals.

 

Daily programming includes anger management groups, strategies groups, independent living skills training, drug and alcohol education, group therapy, and individualized assignments. In addition, individual therapy and family therapy may be offered on an individualized basis, depending on the treatment team’s recommendations. These services are considered supplemental supports rather than the primary focus of the program.

 

Alongside these services, the program emphasizes a therapeutic group milieu, where peers play a vital role in daily treatment. Guided by the principles of TFTC, this environment helps youth learn and practice respect for self and others, develop healthy relationships, set and meet expectations, and take responsibility for maintaining a safe and supportive community.