Youth Residential Services
Helping Children Heal, Grow & Thrive in Caring Homes
At AWARE, we provide compassionate, community-based residential care for children and teens (ages 5-17) with mental health challenges, developmental disabilities, or autism. Our goal is to create a nurturing home environment where every child can heal, build life skills, and thrive in their community.
Contact Us Today
Jennifer Wihlborg
Service DirectorCall: 406-529-1357 or
Email: jwihlborg@aware-inc.org
SERVICE LOCATIONS
Why Choose AWARE?
Comprehensive Residential Care for Children & Teens
Families choose AWARE because we provide:
- Safe & Supportive Homes – Warm, structured environments with trained caregivers.
- Personalized Care Plans – Tailored support for each child’s unique needs.
- Expert Mental Health & Autism Support – Evidence-based therapy and interventions.
- Focus on Independence & Growth – Helping children build skills for long-term success.
- Strong Community Connections – Encouraging social engagement and education.
Our homes are located in Anaconda, Billings, Butte, Great Falls, and Missoula, providing care close to families and communities.
Specialized Homes for Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities
Supportive, Therapeutic Homes for Emotional & Developmental Growth
AWARE’s group homes provide a structured, family-style setting for children diagnosed with Severe Emotional Disturbance (SED) and developmental disabilities.
- High Staff-to-Child Ratio (2:1) – Ensuring personalized care and supervision.
- Therapeutic & Emotional Support – Helping children feel safe, valued, and understood.
- Evidence-Based Interventions – Using natural, logical learning opportunities.
- Community-Based Activities – Encouraging real-world skill-building.
Our goal is to help children develop the skills and confidence they need to transition back to family life, school, and their community.
Autism Youth Homes
Specialized Care for Children on the Autism Spectrum
The Porphyry Home in Butte offers 24-hour nursing care and specialized support for individuals with developmental disabilities and primary medical diagnoses.
Since 2009, AWARE’s Autism Youth Homes have provided state-of-the-art behavioral support in Billings, Missoula, and Anaconda.
- Highly Trained Autism Specialists – Staff experienced in ASD-specific interventions.
- Structured, Predictable Routines – Creating a stable and calming environment.
- Therapeutic Support – Individual, group, and family therapy.
- Social & Community Engagement – Encouraging meaningful interactions and skill development.
- Education at Local Schools – Ensuring a consistent learning experience.
Our autism homes are designed for comfort, safety, and growth, helping children gain confidence in their abilities.
Admission Criteria & Referral Process
Who We Serve & How to Apply
AWARE’s residential programs support children and teens who:
- Have a diagnosed Severe Emotional Disturbance (SED) or developmental disability.
- Need a structured, therapeutic environment with 24/7 trained support.
- Have limited family/community support or need a higher level of care.
- Are at risk of hospitalization without residential treatment.
Referral Process:
To refer a child, please submit:
- Clinical/Psychiatric Assessment – Mental health evaluation within the past 30 days.
- Educational Records – IEP, 504 Plan, or CST documentation.
- Psychiatric/Clinical Evaluations – Any relevant assessments from the past year.
Why Choose AWARE?
Your Partner in Every Stage of Life
At AWARE, we are dedicated to helping children, adults, and families build brighter lives. We’re committed to helping individuals grow, connect, and move forward with confidence
Contact Us Today!
Youth Residential Services
Jennifer Wihlborg
Service Director
Call: 406-529-1357 or or
Email: jwihlborg@aware-inc.org
