White River Academy

Developmental Approach to Treatment

• Developmental Vacation™ Model – Helps adolescents take responsibility for their actions and progress developmentally
• Focuses on breaking negative behavioral patterns and building personal accountability
• Encourages self-regulation, problem-solving, and social skill development

Specialized Treatment for Sexual Addiction & Compulsivity

• One of the few programs addressing sexual addiction, pornography abuse, and compulsive behaviors
• Specialized treatment for sexual addiction and compulsivity, with trauma-informed care

Comprehensive Academic & Therapeutic Program

• Academic rehabilitation and college prep for students at all levels
• Variety of therapeutic approaches, including:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Experiential therapy
  • Individual, group, and family therapy
  • Trauma-informed care

Who This Program Helps

• Adolescent males (ages 12–17) struggling with:
  • ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD
  • Oppositional defiance, impulse control issues, low self-esteem
  • Substance abuse and addiction (including opioid addiction)
  • Sexual addiction and compulsivity
  • Technology and pornography addiction
  • Adoption, attachment, and foster care-related challenges
  • Dual diagnosis (co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders)

Life Skills & Personal Development

• Custom educational plans to support academic success
• Personal development training – goal-setting, responsibility, and leadership
• Fitness & nutrition programs – includes hiking, biking, weightlifting, and meal planning
• Community service projects required before program completion

Adventure & Experiential Therapy

• Outdoor activities designed to challenge and build resilience, including:
  • Rock climbing, whitewater rafting, fishing, canyoneering, bouldering
• Peer-driven accountability and leadership development

Private, Structured Environment

• Secure residential setting for a focused treatment experience
• On-site boarding school integrated with therapy
• Outdoor recreational spaces for structured physical activities

Admissions & Program Structure

• Rolling admissions available year-round
• Treatment duration varies but is designed for long-term residential care
• Admissions process includes:
  • Behavioral and mental health history assessment
  • Possible psychological testing and IQ assessment
  • Clinical staff approval required before enrollment
• Orientation process:
  • New students assigned senior peers for mentorship
  • First week includes clinical assessments and program introduction

Leadership & Staff

• Founder: Justin Nielson, Operations and Program Director
• Clinical Team: Licensed professionals overseeing treatment plans
• Low student-to-staff ratio for individualized guidance and care

Patient Reviews

• Supportive staff and structured environment – Many parents praised the staff for being caring, compassionate, and committed to helping students succeed.
• Academic and therapeutic growth – Several reviews highlighted improvements in emotional regulation, accountability, and relationships with family members.
• Long-term investment – Some parents mentioned their child spent over a year at the academy, emphasizing the importance of patience in the healing process.
• Family involvement – Positive feedback on parent weekends and strong communication between therapists, staff, and families.