Youth Residential Treatment Programs for Boys & Girls

Mountain Valley Child and Family Services (MVCFS) short-term youth residential treatment programs provide an array of comprehensive services for children with emotional, behavioral, and educational challenges that are severe enough to keep them from functioning in their homes, schools, and communities. MVCFS programs help children overcome struggles which may include various mental health issues, emotional disabilities, behavior and learning disabilities, or a combination of issues preventing children from successful functioning in less restrictive settings.

Our Youth Residential Programs accept boys and girls, ages 10-21. The Boys Program is located on our 900-acre ranch in the Sierra foothills of Nevada City, California. 9.2 miles outside the city limits. The Girls Program is located on a mini-ranch property just south of Sacramento, California. 

MVCFS schools are certified by the California Department of Education (CDE) and offer high quality (diploma track) educational services provided by credentialed Education Specialists. Our teachers implement and manage Personalized Individual Education Plans and Behavior Intervention Plans. Educators use a general education curriculum that meets Common Core State Standards.

  • Certified by California Department of Education (CDE)
  • Accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
  • California Credentialed Teachers
  • Student aides in each classroom
  • 8 -12 students per classroom
  • 3 to 1 student to faculty ratio
  • Speech pathologists and occupational therapists available
  • Credit recovery opportunities
  • Outdoor problem-based learning
  • Para professionals supporting our teachers

Students are presented with opportunities to participate in a variety of activities and vocational projects. Our approach to learning and healing is trauma-informed, collaborative, and fun. All students have access to working with the ranch animals to enhance their learning experiences. We encourage students to also pursue their personal learning and avocational interests outside of the classroom. Experiential learning opportunities include: 

  • Animal Care & Equine Program
  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Gardening
  • Welding
  • Ceramics
  • Woodworking
  • Indoor climbing