Is Building Bridges a program only for teens with substance abuse problems?
No, while Building Bridges serves teens with substance abuse issues, we also serve teens experiencing behavioral, academic and emotional problems.

Is Building Bridges licensed in the State of Montana?
Montana has had no licensing requirement until recently. Building Bridges is involved in the licensing regulations being developed and implemented in Montana. Licensing is a good thing and we embrace all measures that ensure the highest level of care is provided for young people served.

Is Building Bridges a “wilderness program”?
Building Bridges uses adventure based activities to engage teens in shared responsibility and team building. This takes youth away from the enabling relationships and habits they experienced at home. In the summer we take 10-14 day adventure based therapy expeditions with strong counseling support and appropriate numbers of staff that have experience in adventure activities. Group experiences and enhanced self-awareness and self-esteem highlight these trips.

The majority of time is spent in our home environment, in educational activities and community involvement.

Is Building Bridges a new program? Are staff members experienced?
Building Bridges was founded in 1996. The director and his wife have extensive experience in working with teens in a residential program environment. Their staff members are educated, trained and experienced to provide needed educational and therapeutic programming to young people with varying issues and problems. Our director is an experienced counselor and is a nationally certified Chemical Dependency Counseling Professional (NCAC) (LAC).

Will I be able to communicate with my son and will I know how he is doing?
Absolutely. Communication is something we encourage and believe in. Any restrictions on communication will be discussed and will have a necessary therapeutic value in a teen’s overall treatment plan at Building Bridges.

Will I be able to get references from parents whose son has been a student at the Building Bridges Program?
Upon request references are available from parents of our program participants. We encourage you to contact them.