SPECIALIZED AND INDIVIDUALIZED PROGRAMS

The students we serve are individuals, not diagnoses. Our students may come to us with issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, or school refusal, for example, but they are far more complex than the clinical descriptions used to help diagnose them. Indeed, the differences between each of our students, can be real and profound. Their unique talents and interest, how they think and process information, and their life experience makes each one of them stand out. This is why we have different residential treatment centers that can cater specifically to each individual student and what will best help them heal.

 Our residential treatment facilities and therapeutic schools for adolescents combine Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), traditional talk therapy and experiential therapies such as equine-assisted psychotherapy, art therapy, adventure therapy and music therapy. This type of combined therapy helps to achieve a more resilient, influential change in a teen mental health.

Every aspect of a CERTS therapeutic program is designed to reach our students quickly and guide them through their healing process with intensive therapy techniques that suit them best. Why? Because we see them as the people they are, and not just someone who has to conform to the program. At its core, our deepest value has always been honoring the greatness within each of the teens we serve and support. That is why we are small, why we are relationship based, and most of all, why we are so specialized.

We are here to help our students heal by giving them support and therapy tools to use after they have completed our youth residential treatment.  Call us at 888-406-5968 to learn more about which CERTS Program might be the best fit for your teen and family. 

Learn More About The CERTS Standards of Excellence

La Europa Academy at Certs

La Europa Academy

Established in 2004 | Salt Lake City 
801-916-5696

Welcome to La Europa Academy, a beacon of hope and transformation for adolescents aged 14-17 who are navigating the intricate challenges of depression, anxiety, trauma, addictive behaviors, low self-esteem, and academic struggles. At La Europa, we understand that the teen years can be a tumultuous and critical period in one's life, marked by a myriad of emotional, social, and academic complexities. With unwavering dedication, our residential treatment center emerges as a sanctuary where youth embark on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and empowerment. Rooted in compassion and evidence-based therapeutic approaches, we are committed to guiding each young individual towards a brighter future, fostering resilience, and equipping them with the tools to thrive in every aspect of their lives.

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girl creating a clay pot on a pottery wheel
What makes us different at CERTS

Clinical Support

La Europa Academy stands out with its innovative and comprehensive approach to therapy, embracing the individual, the family, group dynamics, and cutting-edge neurofeedback techniques. Our unique methodology recognizes that true healing extends beyond the individual, permeating the family unit and encompassing the influence of peer interactions. By tailoring therapeutic interventions to address these multifaceted dimensions, we create a holistic and personalized healing journey. Our incorporation of neurofeedback technology adds another layer of precision, offering a scientifically backed method to enhance self-regulation and optimize brain function. At La Europa, we believe that a collaborative and integrated approach is key to fostering lasting transformation, empowering our youth to overcome challenges, and forge a path towards a brighter future.

Using Creativity to Heal

La Europa Academy embraces a holistic approach to healing by integrating expressive and creative arts therapies into our comprehensive treatment model. Through art, dance, yoga, music therapy, fine arts, and video art, we provide our adolescents with dynamic avenues for self-expression and self-discovery. Artistic modalities serve as powerful tools to help our students tap into their emotions, enhance self-esteem, and foster a deeper connection with their inner selves. Dance and yoga provide embodied practices that promote physical and emotional well-being, while music therapy becomes a melodic channel for emotional release and connection. Our fine arts and video art programs offer innovative platforms for visual expression, encouraging adolescents to communicate their narratives in unique and meaningful ways. By incorporating these diverse artistic and expressive mediums, La Europa not only nurtures creativity but also cultivates a therapeutic environment that transcends traditional boundaries, allowing our students to explore and heal through the transformative power of the arts. .

Excellent Academics

La Europa Academy recognizes the importance of academic success as a crucial component of our students' overall development. Through a commitment to excellence, we seamlessly integrate academics into our holistic therapeutic approach, ensuring that students not only overcome personal challenges but also emerge academically prepared for the future. Our highly skilled faculty members are dedicated to creating a supportive and individualized learning environment, tailoring instruction to meet the unique needs of each student. The curriculum at La Europa is thoughtfully designed to be both engaging and rigorous, promoting intellectual curiosity and a love for learning. By combining therapeutic interventions with a strong academic foundation, we empower our students to excel in their studies and embark on paths that lead to college and career readiness. Our goal is to instill a lifelong passion for learning and equip each student with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their academic pursuits and future careers.

DBT & RO DBT

Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy are the links between our clinical and residential programs at La Europa, guiding our staff to understand students' challenges and guide them towards positive change. It's not just a philosophy but a practical tool to help students turn their insights into real-life skills. In our residential setting, this means balancing structure for emotional control with the freedom to explore and practice new skills safely. This approach helps our team and students avoid getting stuck in negative cycles, focusing instead on understanding behavior, acknowledging positive changes, and moving forward in their journey of growth.

Kolob Canyon

Kolob Canyon

Established in 2002 | Southern Utah 
435-704-7191

Welcome to Kolob Canyon, a haven of transformation for teenagers aged 14-17. At Kolob Canyon, we believe in the potency of personalized care, where every young individual is seen, heard, and understood. With an exclusive focus on a maximum of 16 students, our commitment to fostering meaningful connections allows for unparalleled 1-on-1 attention. This intimate setting enables our dedicated team of experts to tailor therapeutic interventions with precision, addressing the unique needs of each teen. In the majestic landscape of Kolob Canyon, we embark on a journey of healing, resilience, and empowerment, ensuring that every student receives the individualized support necessary to navigate the challenges of adolescence and emerge stronger on the path to a brighter future.

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girl with a horse on a field
what makes CERTS different

Adventure Therapy

At Kolob Canyon, our commitment to healing extends beyond traditional therapeutic approaches, encompassing the transformative power of adventure therapy. Nestled in the breathtaking wilderness, our program integrates dynamic outdoor experiences such as hiking, service projects, equine therapy, camping, lake days, and river rafting into the therapeutic journey. Adventure therapy becomes a catalyst for self-discovery, resilience, and personal growth, as teens immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding Kolob Canyon. Whether navigating hiking trails, engaging in service projects, bonding with equine companions, or embarking on exhilarating river rafting adventures, each activity is purposefully designed to instill confidence, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishment. Kolob Canyon's adventure therapy empowers teens to overcome challenges, build connections, and discover their inner strength amidst the beauty of the great outdoors.

Equine Therapy

At the heart of Equine Therapy at Kolob Canyon lies the foundational principle of fostering connections with horses. This unique approach empowers students to develop crucial skills such as building connections, trust, and confidence through interactions with remarkably intuitive animals. In the context of Equine Therapy, horses play a pivotal role in providing an authentic reflection of a teen's internal experiences. Horses, being highly perceptive and responsive creatures, offer a genuine and unbiased mirror to the emotional and psychological states of the individuals they engage with. This form of therapy goes beyond verbal communication, allowing students to explore and understand their emotions on a deeper level, while simultaneously cultivating essential life skills in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

Trauma Focused Care

Kolob Canyon is dedicated to providing trauma-focused care, recognizing the profound impact that past experiences can have on the well-being of our students. Our commitment to healing goes beyond conventional approaches, employing a diverse array of methods designed to meet the unique needs of each individual on their journey to recovery. Through trauma-informed interventions, we create a therapeutic space where teens can safely explore and process their emotions, fostering resilience and empowerment. The blend of evidence-based practices, experiential therapies, and compassionate support ensures that every student receives personalized care, enabling them to heal from trauma and move forward towards a future marked by strength, self-discovery, and renewed hope. At Kolob Canyon, we stand united in our mission to guide adolescents through the transformative process of healing, helping them reclaim control over their lives and embrace a brighter tomorrow.

Individualized Academics

In the heart of our residential treatment setting, academics shine as the guiding light for teens on their journey towards holistic well-being. Far beyond textbooks and classrooms, education becomes the cornerstone of stability, offering a predictable routine that brings comfort to those navigating challenges. It's about building essential life skills, fostering a sense of empowerment, and boosting confidence. As individuals conquer academic milestones, they find joy and accomplishment, turning their educational pursuits into a therapeutic outlet. The shared experience of learning creates a tight-knit community, where peer support and positive connections flourish. Education isn't merely a chapter; it's a roadmap, preparing individuals for a future beyond our doors, filled with opportunities for growth, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning. Within our classrooms, an atmosphere of inquiry prevails, constantly discovering innovative ways to impart knowledge and challenging each student to their full capacity. This approach cultivates a rich and fertile soil, allowing academic engagement to thrive and flourish.

Moonridge Academy at CERTS

Moonridge academy

Established in 2003 | Southern Utah
435-900-2115

Step into Moonridge Academy, a beacon of hope for young teens facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or attachment issues. Our pioneer therapeutic interventions, including adventure therapy, guide adolescents on a journey of healing and self-discovery. In our intimate setting, we prioritize each student's individual journey with personalized treatment, recognizing the importance of relationships. Moonridge Academy offers a smaller, more intimate program that fosters a tailored experience, equipping teens with lifelong well-being skills.

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girl on top of a cliff enjoying the landscape view
What makes CERTS different

Experiential Therapies

The use of experiential therapies such as sand tray therapy, play therapy, art therapy, equine-assisted therapy, and adventure therapy can indeed be effective in helping teens express themselves when verbal communication may be challenging. These experiential therapies aim to create a supportive and engaging environment where teens can address underlying issues and develop essential life skills. The term "backdoor approach" suggests a less direct way of addressing problems, allowing individuals to express themselves in ways that feel more comfortable to them. It's crucial for therapists to adapt their methods to meet the unique needs of each individual, especially when working with younger teens who may find traditional verbal communication challenging.

Age Specific Treatment

Moonridge Academy offers a distinctive advantage by exclusively admitting younger students, fostering a protective and supportive environment tailored to their unique needs. This approach proves particularly beneficial for individuals who have endured trauma or grapple with issues such as anxiety or depression. The age-specific focus of Moonridge Academy has the added advantage of minimizing exposure to "older teen issues and behaviors." By metaphorically positioning itself as a therapeutic "Middle School" or "Junior High," Moonridge distinguishes itself from traditional treatment centers that may be likened to "High School." This unique approach emphasizes a more tailored and nurturing environment, ensuring that students are better equipped to navigate their emotional and developmental challenges.

Adventure Therapy

Central to our approach is Adventure Therapy, a dynamic and engaging method aimed at empowering teens to achieve higher levels of mental health and recovery. Every Wednesday, we organize adventure experiences, featuring outdoor activities, service projects, and educational field trips. These carefully curated experiences not only offer an enjoyable break from routine but also serve as powerful catalysts for personal growth and transformation. Against the backdrop of Moonridge's picturesque surroundings, students engage in purposeful outdoor activities that include hiking, camping, and team-building exercises. These experiences not only instill a sense of accomplishment but also foster essential life skills, such as teamwork and leadership. Through healing in adventure, Moonridge Academy empowers adolescents to navigate challenges, build confidence, and uncover their inner strengths in an environment that transcends the traditional therapeutic setting. The journey at Moonridge goes beyond the ordinary, offering a transformative exploration of self amid the beauty and challenges of the great outdoors.

Specialized Education

Moonridge Academy warmly embraces a top-tier, fully accredited educational program through Cognia, offering a rich blend of traditional academic studies, a vibrant fine-arts curriculum, and cutting-edge computer-aided instruction. Our commitment is to empower every child to unlock the key to success, a success that transcends across all facets of our comprehensive education and clinical programs. Crafted to cater to the distinct needs of each student, our program stands out with rigorous academic standards. Under the nurturing guidance of our highly trained and compassionate academic team, students not only meet but surpass expectations, mastering essential skills that pave the way for their future endeavors.

Mountain Springs Preparatory Academy logo

Mountain Springs Preparatory Academy

Established in 2005 | Southern Utah 
435-592-3220

Welcome to Mountain Springs Preparatory Academy, where we specialize in providing a unique and supportive boarding school environment focused on transition, step-down, and practice for adolescents. At Mountain Springs, we understand the significance of the transitional phase in a student's life, and our dedicated team is committed to guiding them through this journey with care and expertise. Our innovative program is designed to foster personal growth, academic success, and the development of essential life skills. Whether your adolescent is transitioning from a higher level of care or seeking a supportive step-down environment, Mountain Springs offers a nurturing community and tailored resources to ensure a smooth and successful transition to the next chapter of their educational and personal development.

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students taking notes during class
what makes CERTS different

Community involvement

Students at Mountain Springs Preparatory Academy actively engage with the greater Cedar City community. Our commitment to community involvement extends beyond our campus, with students participating in meaningful employment and volunteering opportunities that contribute to the local area's growth and development. Emphasizing the importance of holistic development, we encourage active participation in athletics and physical activities, fostering teamwork, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle. In collaboration with the community, Mountain Springs provides our students with a wealth of educational opportunities, creating an enriching environment that goes beyond the classroom. Through these initiatives, we aim to instill a sense of responsibility, citizenship, and a well-rounded education that prepares our students for a successful and impactful future.

True Transition

Mountain Springs Preparatory Academy recognizes the importance of practical application in the learning process. We go beyond traditional educational settings, providing students with opportunities to practice and refine the skills they've acquired in a less restrictive environment that mirrors real-life scenarios. Our approach emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to navigate challenges and make decisions in a setting that closely resembles the complexities of the outside world. Through this immersive and practical approach, we empower students at Mountain Springs to build confidence, independence, and a strong foundation for success in their future endeavors.

Personalized Care

Mountain Springs recognizes that each student has unique needs and that families choose a step-down option for different reasons. MSPA seeks to meet these needs by individualizing the program for each student through the use of the MAPP (Master Academic and Personal Progress) plan. The MAPP plan is a set of goals and objectives created by the student, parents, the school and therapist. These goals encompass four areas of emphasis: Academic, Personal Progress, Family Life and Future Planning. The MAPP plan gives the students specific goals that they are able to achieve while at Mountain Springs. This means that all students that graduate from MSPA will have met different "individualized" requirements.

Preparing for the Future

We are dedicated to fostering an environment at Mountain Springs where our students not only learn, but actively engage in cultivating healthy habits and striking a harmonious balance in all facets of their lives. The unwavering guidance and support from our committed staff and administrators ensure that our students navigate this journey with a safety net, allowing them to practice making choices without the fear of drastic or life-altering consequences that may arise from missteps at home. Our ultimate goal is to empower our students to embrace success and develop into resilient and confident individuals with a robust internal locus of control.

Individualized Education

At Mountain Springs, we're not just shaping minds; we're fostering a warm and empowering educational journey for each student. At Mountain Springs Preparatory Academy, we redefine the educational experience by blending the best aspects of traditional learning with a unique focus on fostering self-esteem and addressing core issues. Our commitment to personalized education is evident in our intimate learning environment, boasting superb teacher-to-student ratios (averaging 1:6) that facilitate individualized attention. Recognized by Cognia, our fully-accredited academic program upholds the highest standards, providing a solid foundation for lifelong learning. Immerse yourself in an outstanding college-prep curriculum, delivered through innovative teaching methods such as direct instruction from certified teachers and ample hands-on learning opportunities.

Call us at 888-406-5968 to learn more about which CERTS Program might be the best fit for your teen.

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