Residential Care at the Ranch
Our PRTF (Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility) at the Ranch in Billings offers a nurturing, structured setting for kids who are working through social, emotional, or behavioral challenges that require more support than community-based services can provide.
Each child’s care is personalized and grounded in their strengths.
“I really like how the staff are trained and that we have a lot of freedoms and different ways of treatment. I think this is the best treatment I’ve been to because it actually helped.” — Former YBGR Youth
Daily routines, caring relationships, and a calm ranch environment give kids space to regain stability, build confidence, and discover new possibilities for their lives.
Take a Tour
Want to see life at the Ranch up close? This short video walks you through the spaces kids call home while they’re with us.
Who We Serve & How We Support Kids
At our PRTF in Billings, we serve kids ages 11–18 who need support beyond what’s available at home or through community-rooted care. Many come to us facing emotional or behavioral challenges that make daily life difficult, including (but not limited to):
- Anxiety or depression
- Trauma
- Attention or impulse control
- Autism spectrum needs
- Substance use
Each child receives care that supports their path toward stability and resilience, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive when they return home to their community.
Therapy and steady routines work together to provide grounding and a sense of direction, helping kids build confidence and form stronger connections.
School takes place year-round at Yellowstone Academy, where small classes and supportive educators help kids learn at a pace that makes sense for them.
Families remain closely involved through:
- Regular phone calls
- In-person visits
- Weekly therapy
- Monthly treatment reviews
Families stay connected, informed, and supported from the moment their child arrives until they’re ready for the next step.
➝ Learn more about our therapeutic programming at the Ranch.
Shawn’s Story
“Whether you realize it now or not, one day, you’ll look back and be grateful for this time.” — Shawn Bassinger
Shawn came to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch as a young boy struggling with anger and loss. Through the care of Pearl, Corbin, Jennifer, and many others who walked beside him, he found the stability and guidance he needed to move forward.
Today, Shawn is a homeowner, entrepreneur, and financial planner with New York Life. He still carries the small rock he was given when he left the Ranch more than 20 years ago—a reminder of how far he’s come and the foundation built here.
Read more in the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation’s Wrangler.
Life at the Ranch
Kids live in same-sex lodges where shared responsibilities and consistent routines offer stability and a sense of belonging. These rhythms help them practice life skills, form healthier habits, and build confidence through steady, achievable progress.
Afternoons and evenings include structured activities—recreation at the Uihlein Center, time outdoors, enrichment groups, and hands-on experiences that strengthen relationships and help kids work through challenges with greater assurance.
Across the Ranch, caring adults use trauma-informed, relationship-driven approaches. Consistent expectations and steady connection guide daily life, helping kids regain balance and build the skills they need for the road ahead.
Want to Make a Referral?
To refer a child, call or text our Admissions team at (406) 606-4075, contact us online, or visit admit.ybgr.org.