1. When can a student enter the program?

High Top Ranch is an open-enrollment program, meaning that students may enter at any time. Upon enrollment each student is evaluated and given their own individualized study program and treatment plan.

2. What is the average length of time a student stays in the program?

Students typically attend the program for a year, though many families choose stay longer to finish school requiremens and/or to attain higher emotional/behavioral goals.

3. What can I expect from my son upon graduation from High Top Ranch School?

The High Top Ranch program helps students make significant change in behaviors and habits. Students leave our program with self-discipline, positive self-image, anger management training, time management skills, and a strong work ethic. They are better students in school and have generally accelerated their ability to work positively in group settings. The primary relationship between parent(s) and siblings is more positive and mature.

4. How do I communicate with my son once he is in the program?

Parents are encouraged to speak weekly with their child. A period of adjustment to a new environment and the program structure is expected. After 10 to 12 weeks, parents may visit for a weekend. This first weekend is spent in the local area. As time progresses, additional visits are arranged at holidays and periodic intervals.

As each boy begins to take responsibility for his choices, parents are urged to attend a family counseling session with their son to address his progress and develop a paradigm for positive interaction in the home setting. Issues will be identified, and the therapist will work the student and parent(s) in future sessions (generally by phone for the parents). This triangular counseling—the parent(s), student, and High Top faculty—sets the foundation for a successful transition home and a positive, respectful relationship between parent and child.

5. Will my insurance cover any of the cost of my son's stay at High Top Ranch?

Many insurance companies will cover some of the cost, depending upon the way your insurance policy is written and if you have a diagnosis of mental health or substance abuse.

6. Is High Top Ranch School licensed to provide treatment?

High Top Ranch is licensed as a residential treatment center in Utah. We meet and exceed many rigorous standards and yearly licensing inspections. High Top Ranch School is also accredited through the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools (NAAS), and certified through the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO).

7. How is poor behavior handled at High Top Ranch?

Each students behavior is closely monitored & reviewed daily. For small disruptions, boys are given a little space away from the group. Students who break rules lose some or all of their weeknight/weekend privileges. Repeated rule breaking is often met with lost privileges and/or chores. Students learn that the fun they have while complying with rules is well worth the effort.