Yellowstone Academy Student Artwork Brings Learning to Life
See these tiles? They’re part of the incredible Yellowstone Academy student artwork collection—painted by past students during art class. It’s just one way the school fosters creativity and connection.
Yellowstone Academy provides K-12 education and vocational classes for kids in residential care at the Ranch and its Day Treatment program. With small classes and personalized support, the school helps students overcome emotional, educational, and behavioral challenges—empowering them to thrive.
As one of the West’s few accredited public schools located on a residential treatment campus, Yellowstone Academy combines learning and healing on our historic 410-acre ranch, nestled in the countryside of Billings.
These tiles are just a glimpse of the Yellowstone Academy student artwork showcasing the creativity and growth happening daily with the kids.
Learn More About Yellowstone Academy
Visit our Yellowstone Academy tab to learn more about the creative, therapeutic, educational programming they deliver daily.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news and events for the latest YBGR updates from around the state, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.
It’s Painful. 13 Quotes on Hurt & Healing
Has your heart ever hurt? Chances are, the answer is yes. Very few of us make it through life unscathed by a painful experience. In fact, surveys show that trauma is a nearly universal venture, with over 80% of Americans laying claim to it.
And the road to resilience is a profound one. Below are thirteen quotes illustrating the path from hurt to healing.
Quotes on Hurt & Healing
Hurt people, hurt people. Only healing ends the cycle.
Quote: If you never heal from what hurt you, you’ll bleed on people who didn’t cut you. – Tamara Kulish
The pain we carry makes it difficult to trust and form healthy relationships.
Quote: I push people away because I’m afraid I might not heal again if I get hurt. I push them away and paint my walls so good they can’t recognize me anymore. I don’t give people a chance. – Inspired by Bisma Ijaz
Left unaddressed, it can lead to sadness and manifest as anger towards ourselves and others.
Quote: Someone said, “anger is sadness that has had nowhere to go for a very long time,” and I’ll never forget that. – Unknown
And that anger, fueled by hurt, can creep out in some unsavory ways.
Quote: A person begging for their humanity to be acknowledged can sound an awful lot like rage. – Kalen Dion
Pain clouds the lens we use to interpret the world around us.
Quote: Heal so you can hear what’s being said without the filter of your wound. – Unknown
But it doesn’t need to harden our hearts. We can choose another way.
Quote: I admire people who could have turned cold after everything they’ve been through but still choose love anyway. There’s strength in that. – Keneilwe Dr. Mhlanga
We can heal. While painful temporarily, it’s the only way to stop the hurt.
Quote: Healing doesn’t have to look magical or pretty. Real healing is hard, exhausting, and draining. Let yourself go through it. Don’t try to paint it as anything other than what it is. Be there for yourself without judgment. – Unknown
Healing means being vulnerable. But there’s strength in that.
Quote: Vulnerability is about being brave enough to show up again and again. Even when it’s hard. Even when there’s been hurt. – Lauren Fortenberry
Because it’s the battles that we face that shape us and make us strong.
Quote: She never seemed shattered; to me, she was a breathtaking mosaic of the battles she’s won. – Matt Baker
And in the path from hurt to healing, we can grow.
Quote: If you focus on the hurt, you will continue to suffer. If you focus on the lesson, you will continue to grow. – @MasteringLawofAttraction
We can find meaning.
Quote: Healing never came when I clawed in search of it. Instead, it came when I was willing to listen to the lesson the pain was here to teach me. – Lauren Fortenberry
And while there are no easy paths for solving the hardest in life.
Quote: There are no easy answers. No quick solutions. No clear paths for resolving the hardest in life. But we can choose forgiveness. We can choose grace. No matter what, we can still choose love. – Lauren Fortenberry
You will one day heal from the hurt. And in the journey to that healing, you will become strong.
Quote: You let time pass. That’s the cure. You survive the days. You float like a rabid ghost through the weeks. You cry and wallow and lament and scratch your way back up through the months. And then one day, you find yourself alone on a bench in the sun, and you close your eyes, lean your head back and realize you’re okay. – Cheryl Strayed
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Getting to the “Why” Behind Kids’ Behavior
Who hasn’t experienced a bit of confusion and even frustration when their kids display challenging behavior? Behavior that seemingly comes out of nowhere.
Why is my child throwing tantrums, acting out, or refusing to listen?
In these moments, it’s time to put on our detective hats and investigate—there’s always a “why” behind children’s actions.
When we understand the underlying needs driving behaviors, we gain valuable insights—making it easier to address them effectively and navigate difficult moments with empathy.
Unmet Needs, Behavior, & Solutions
Remember, a need met is a challenging behavior solved! Below are possible unmet needs, behaviors stemming from them, and potential solutions.
🤝 Connection
Kids who feel lonely or disconnected may seek attention by interrupting, talking out of turn to connect with others, or acting out negatively.
Pro Tip: Dedicate daily quality time with your little one. Create special rituals, such as reading together before bed or having regular family meals.
📅 Structure
Children who lack structure or routine may struggle with impulsivity or disorganization, leading to problematic behavior.
Pro Tip: Create a predictable daily schedule with regular mealtimes, study or play periods, and a consistent bedtime routine. Use visual cues like charts or calendars to help your child understand and anticipate what comes next.
🛡️ Safety
Kids who don’t feel safe may exhibit clingy or anxious behavior or act aggressively to protect themselves.
Pro Tip: Create a nurturing, physically and emotionally safe environment. Encourage open communication—validating feelings, and reassuring kids when they express worries or concerns.
We foster a trusting relationship by being available, responsive, and supportive.
💪 Autonomy
Children who feel powerless may resist authority by being defiant or oppositional.
Pro Tip: Offer choices within appropriate boundaries, allowing kids to make decisions about their clothing, activities, or chores to give them a sense of control.
Give children age-appropriate responsibilities and recognize their efforts + achievements. And foster a collaborative approach by listening to their perspectives and involving them in problem-solving.
Want More?
Check out the rest of our blog and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.
Lisa Frazier — Celebrating 42 Years of Service
Recognize this outstanding woman? It’s Lisa Frazier, retiring Director of Recreational Services. And after 42 years of dedicated service, her impact will be felt for many years to come.
Lisa Frazier’s 42-Year Journey of Recreation and Healing
Lisa joined us in 1982, and from the beginning, she embodied our mission: “Caring people, preparing youth for life.” Her passion for investing in kids was evident.
From spearheading our dog therapy program to teaching recreational activities that help youth develop healthy coping mechanisms, Lisa played a key role in shaping the wellness initiatives we hold dear today.
Lisa is deeply ingrained in Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch’s long legacy of care. Her wealth of knowledge and countless memories of the youth she’s helped along the way make her a true historian of our journey over the decades.
Lisa Frazier’s Impact on Youth at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch
Lisa’s favorite memories during her career at YBGR? Each surrounded time spent with kids at the Ranch:
- Camping in Yellowstone National Park
- Trips to Hedges Lake in the ’80s
- Outings to Box R Ranch in Wyoming
- Biking trips to Red Lodge
When asked what she loved most about YBGR, Lisa shared it was her work with kids and the team approach to care. She saw the value of getting youth outdoors and engaging in healthy activities as part of holistic wellness—mind, body, and spirit.
Lisa enjoyed watching youth travel the path of healing toward resilience—seeing them learn, grow, and begin to thrive.
Lisa—thank you for your unwavering commitment to our mission and the youth we serve. Your work has shaped countless lives, leaving a lasting impact on generations of Montanans. We wish you all the best in your well-deserved retirement.
Pictured is Lisa through the years at YBGR, along with some snapshots from her retirement party on campus and her beloved canine therapy pros.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news and events page for the latest YBGR updates from around the state, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.
Handprints of Hope from Our Native American Services Program
See the handprints on this tipi liner? Each represents a child who has successfully graduated from our Native American Services Program at the Ranch, marking their journey of healing, growth, and resilience.
Josie Brady, Native American Services Coordinator, began this project in January 2024, and as the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to reflect on the magnitude of our work.
Over 3,600 Kids Served in 2024
Through our mental health programming statewide, we provided care to more than 3,600 children this year—helping them build resilience and equipping them with the skills to thrive. Every life we impact creates a ripple effect, shaping not just the youth we serve but their families and communities for generations to come.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we celebrate an impactful 2024, we look forward to the year ahead with a renewed commitment to serving Montana’s kids and families.
Thank you to our staff, partners, and supporters for making this work possible. Here’s to another year of hope, healing, and transformation!
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.
Reaching More Kids Through Residential Care at the Ranch
Did you know that in 2024, we reached a peak of 91 kids in our care at one time at the Ranch in Billings? That’s our highest census in years. It reflects the growing need for therapeutic residential treatment (PRTF) in Montana and our teams’ critical role in delivering lifesaving care.
Providing Hope When Families Need It Most
Families seeking PRTF treatment are often in crisis, looking for a safe, healing environment for children struggling with unsafe behaviors stemming from trauma and mental health challenges. With limited in-state options, families are often left with impossible choices—send their child out of state, far from home and family, or go without the care they desperately need.
At Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, we work to ensure Montana kids have access to high-quality mental health treatment close to home.
Breaking Barriers to Care
This year’s census peak is a testament to our collective commitment to breaking down barriers and providing trauma-informed, wraparound support for youth who need it most.
To our residential teams—your dedication makes a difference every single day. Thank you for going above and beyond to ensure kids in crisis find hope, healing, and a path forward.
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2025, we remain committed to expanding access to lifesaving mental health treatment for Montana’s youth—because every child deserves the care and support they need, right here at home.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.
Governor Gianforte Visits YBGR to Discuss Youth Mental Health in Montana
Governor Greg Gianforte and First Lady Susan Gianforte took time away from the campaign trail to visit Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR), where they toured the campus and engaged in discussions about youth mental health in Montana.
During their visit, the Governor and First Lady participated in a panel discussion with YBGR team members, who shared their experiences working with youth at the Ranch:
- Natalie Nickisch, Lead Mental Health Worker
- Jake Mullins, HR Recruiter
- Juletta Gilge, Director of PRTF
- Lacey Jones, Therapist
- Skyler Carroll, Program Manager
These caring professionals highlighted success stories from their work, emphasizing the impact of mental health support on youth and families across Montana. Their insights showcased the critical role of YBGR in providing mental health care to youth in need.
A Commitment to Montana’s Youth
YBGR has been a leader in children’s mental health care in Montana since 1957, offering PTRF residential treatment, therapeutic group home care, community-based services, and school-based programs with locations across the state. The visit from Governor Gianforte and the First Lady reflects the importance of supporting mental health initiatives that help children build brighter futures.
We appreciate Governor Gianforte and the First Lady for their time and interest in learning more about the mission of YBGR. A special thank you to our dedicated team members for sharing their passion, expertise, and the purpose behind their work in youth mental health.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news and events page for the latest YBGR updates from around the state, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.
Youth Dynamics Joins Forces With YBGR for Montana Kids
Did you hear the news? Youth Dynamics and Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch are joining forces to address the growing mental health needs of Montana’s kids and families.
With a vision of a seamless, comprehensive children’s behavioral health continuum, our union will bring together 100+ years of combined experience, over 3,600 children served annually, and nearly 800 caring individuals delivering our mission.
Expanding Mental Health Care Across Montana
Operating as Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, we’ll offer tailored care to meet each child’s unique needs across nearly every county statewide. From community and school programming to therapeutic group homes and PRTF residential treatment, we’re committed to providing the right service at the right time—at the lowest level of care possible.
Together, we’ll enhance our capacity to serve and provide efficient, trauma-informed, wrap-around care that ensures better outcomes for kids.
Learn More About Our Partnership With Youth Dynamics
Visit our YBGR Partner Facts page to learn more about how Youth Dynamics and Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch are working together to strengthen mental health care for Montana’s kids and families.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.
2024 Yellowstone Conference: Community Strategies to Prevent Youth Violence
Welcome to The Yellowstone Conference: Community Strategies to Prevent Youth Violence! Join us on Thu Oct 10 2024 at 08:30 AM for a day of learning and collaboration at 1701 Ray of Hope Ln. Billings, MT. This event will bring together community leaders, educators, and youth advocates to discuss effective strategies for preventing youth violence. Come share your ideas, network with like-minded individuals, and make a difference in your community. Let’s work together to create a safer and more peaceful environment for our youth. We look forward to seeing you there!
Panel Topics & Descriptions:
- Strengthening Family’s in Preventing Youth Violence ~ Moderator: Mary Hash, Administrative Director for Community Based Services. What can we do to help prevent adverse childhood experiences and help create a safe, stable, and nurturing environment for our children to help them reach their full potential? Nearly one in six adults have experienced four or more types of ACEs. This diverse panel will provide the audience information regarding protective factors, resiliency, and resources to help families achieve optimal success.
- Panelists
- Brian Dennis, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Yellowstone County
- Carrie Porter, Program Manager and Intake Specialist for CASA of Yellowstone County
- Laura Narum, Family Programs Resource Coordinator and Interim Director of Emergency Services at District 7 HRDC
- Jen Daniels, Supervisor of the RFS (Resource Family Specialists)
- Partnering With Schools ~ Moderator: Kristin Mathison, Administrative Supervisor in Community Based Services. During this panel we will discuss the importance of creating strong partnerships with schools to assist and support students and staff. Fostering effective collaboration between schools and community health and behavior health partners have significant benefits that include improved academic performance, physical and psychological safety, reduced disciplinary action, lower dropout rate, lower substance abuse and less involvement in the criminal justice system. Each panelist will have an opportunity to speak to why these partnerships are important, how they have seen the systems work together or even what they would like to see improve.
- Panelists
- Randy Shipman, Superintendent of the Dillon Elementary School District #10
- Regina Griemsman, Head of School for Grace Montessori Academy (GMA)
- Christina Peterson, Director of Student Services at Laurel Public Schools.
- Amity Burkhardt, Coordinator of the Wellness and Resiliency Grant for Billings Public Schools
- Counteracting Drug Culture ~ Moderator: Jessica Kiedrowski, LAC, BS, MCRMHC. During this panel we will discuss the warning signs and appropriate interventions that come with childhood substance use. This includes the importance of creating strong connections with family members and community resources to help keep the public informed on what is being advertised to our youth, how it affects the body, and why youth are drawn to it. Staying away from substance use has shown to be directly tied to improvement on grades, school attendance, career progression, and developing healthy relationships with their peers. Youth who struggle with substance use will report troubles with breathing, coping with anxiety, being alone with their thoughts, joining activities that do not allow them to use, and increased emotional dysregulation. Each panelist will have an opportunity to speak to on the different warning signs, how to intervene, what the consequences of use are, what we are seeing used the most often in our communities, where to receive support, and answer questions given by the crowd.
- Panelists
- Bryn Kojetin, Juvenile Probation Officer
- Dr. Malcom Horn, Clinical Supervisor for Rimrock
- Stacy Zinn, Retired Head of the Montana DEA office
- TBA
- Collaborating With Government and Institutional Responses ~ Moderator: Mike Chavers, CEO of Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch. Collaborating with government and institutions is an important factor in providing services for at-risk youth and their families. We will focus on the impact to Montana youth and families.
- Panelists
- Sierra Riesberg, Executive Director of Behavioral Health Alliance of Montana
- Michael “Mike” Yakawich, Montana House of Representatives from the 51st district
- Pat Cates, Senior Manager for Student Support Services for the Montana Office of Public Education
- Meghan Peel, Deputy Administrator for the Children’s Mental Health Bureau
Special Keynote Speaker, Dr. Erwin Garcia, Billings School District 2 Superintendent
To purchase tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-yellowstone-conference-community-strategies-to-prevent-youth-violence-tickets-1004714647557
5.75 CEUs and 6 OPI credits are available upon request and the conference will be offered both in-person and virtual. Lunch will be included for in-person attendees!
Conference Agenda:
o Registration 8:30am-9:00am
o Welcome 9:00am-9:15am
o Strengthening Family’s in Preventing Youth Violence Panel 9:15am-10:30am
o Break 10:30am-10:45am
o Partnering With Schools Panel 10:45am-12:00pm
o Lunch 12:00p-1:00p
o Counteracting Drug Culture Panel 1:00pm-2:15pm
o Break 2:15pm-2:30pm
o Collaborating With Government and Institutional Responses Panel 2:30pm-3:45pm
o Keynote Speaker-Dr. Erwin Garcia, Billings School District 2 Superintendent 3:45pm-4:30pm
9 Warning Signs of Teen Suicide Parents Need to Know
Teen suicide—It’s terrifying. I mean, as a parent, there’s nothing more frightening than the idea of something happening to my kids. Especially something as tragic as one of them taking their own life.
But it’s more common than you think. A poll taken in 2021 by the Montana Office of Public Instruction found that 21% of youth have considered ending their lives.
Shocking. Right?
Kids are struggling at epic proportions right now. Surveys reveal that over 40% of teens show signs of severe depression—feeling sad or hopeless daily.
And it’s reason for concern. It’s more critical than ever for parents to understand the warning signs of suicide and how to intervene.
Below are teen suicide indicators that every parent needs to know.
Warning Signs of Teen Suicide
Talking or writing about suicide
Has your child suddenly started talking or writing about suicide? If so, take it seriously! Examples include making statements such as “I’m going to kill myself” or “I won’t be a problem for you much longer.”
Social withdrawal
Have you noticed your teen is isolating? Do they no longer seem interested in hanging out with friends? Are they finding excuses to avoid school?
If your child is a social butterfly and suddenly seems disinterested in spending time with others, it may be a sign they’re considering suicide.
Changes in mood
Marked changes in your teen’s mood indicate something isn’t right. And frequently, pronounced bouts of sadness are a precursor to completed suicide.
Here are warning signs of depression parents should never ignore:
- Sadness
- Dropping grades
- Being irritable or angry often
- Acting bored all the time, and/or dropping out of activities
- Difficulty with relationships, including changing peer groups or becoming more isolated
- Risky behavior
- Persistent physical complaints such as headaches or stomachaches
- Fatigue
Pay attention to any atypical mood swings, up or down. Even a sudden elevation in mood after a bout of sadness is something to note. Suicide survivors often report a feeling of relief and raised spirits after deciding to end their life, seeing it as an end to their suffering.
Alcohol or drug use
Has your teen started using drugs or drinking? If so, it’s not something to ignore! Often, youth who are struggling use substances to cope. And intoxication increases impulsivity, making it a dangerous cocktail for teens grappling with thoughts of suicide.
Feelings of being trapped, hopeless, or helpless about a situation
Frequently, people who attempt suicide report feelings of being trapped or hopeless. And for teens, it’s something to particularly pay attention to because their concept of time is different than adults’.
As a result, life outside of high school may seem like an eternity, with an end to painful emotions, at the hands of a breakup or friendship conflict, being hard to grasp.
Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
Has your child’s eating or sleeping patterns changed? Both are common indicators of mental health struggles and frequently coincide with suicidal ideation.
Risky or self-destructive behavior
Teens are impulsive. And risk-taking behaviors? They’re a staple of adolescence. But if you notice your teen has suddenly started engaging in destructive behavior that’s uncharacteristic and beyond what’s safe or age-appropriate, it’s a clear indicator that they need help.
Giving away personal possessions
Before completing suicide, people often give away their possessions, making final preparations to end their life. So, if you notice that your teen is giving away prized items, it might be a hint that they are considering suicide.
Personality shifts
Does it feel like your teen’s personality has shifted overnight? Maybe your child was once confident and upbeat and now seems consistently anxious, angry, or agitated. If so, take note! It’s often a warning sign something else is going on.
How to Prevent Teen Suicide
Listen.
Never assume that statements like “nobody cares if I live or die” are just drama. Too often, parents think that and worry if they ask directly about suicide, they’ll plant the idea.
Here’s the thing, though. The only way to know if your child is suffering and get them the help they need is to ask. By inquiring, we show that we care.
Get help.
This piece is crucial. Call your doctor, call a mental health professional, call a suicide hotline, or take your child to a local emergency room. If a professional recommends treatment, be sure to pursue it and make sure your teen sticks with it.
Take precautions.
Do you suspect that your child might be thinking of suicide? If so, take action to limit access to lethal means.
If you have a gun in your house, lock it up along with ammunition, secured separately. And note any prescription medications or alcohol in your home that your teen could use for self-harm and either get rid of it or be sure it’s stored safely.
Final words
Remember, when it comes to suicide, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So, ask the questions, take the precautions, and reach out for help.
Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) is here to help! We provide a wide range of wraparound mental health services designed to help kids heal.
Contact us online to get a child support today.
Want More?
Check out the rest of our blog and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.