Third Way Center - Englewood

Third Way Center - Englewood specializes in comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder treatment for adolescents and young adults between 14 and 21 years old. Operating as part of a network of five licensed Residential Child Care Facilities, the center addresses complex mental health issues, trauma resolution, and substance use disorders through evidence-based therapeutic approaches. Their services span both residential and outpatient care options designed specifically for vulnerable youth populations.

The facility combines innovative scientific approaches with dedicated mental health treatment to foster healing and personal growth. Through their unique Six Boxes© Treatment Methodology and comprehensive care continuum, Third Way Center creates pathways for troubled adolescents to process trauma and develop into productive community members while receiving the specialized support their complex needs require.

Treatment Approaches and Methodology in Englewood, CO

Third Way Center implements evidence-based therapeutic models centered around their proprietary Six Boxes© Treatment Methodology. This framework guides their approach to addressing dual diagnoses—cases where youth experience both substance abuse disorders and mental health conditions simultaneously. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy forms the foundation of their clinical work, complemented by intensive individual sessions, group therapy, and family counseling.

Each adolescent receives a tailored treatment schedule featuring 2-4 hours of individual therapy, 4-10 hours of group therapy, and 1-2 hours of family therapy weekly. Right here in Englewood, CO, teens find relapse prevention strategies that provide crucial tools for sustainable recovery. Their specialized Encephalopathy recovery unit addresses severe cognitive and mental health challenges through targeted interventions designed specifically for the developing adolescent brain.

• 2-4 hours of individual therapy weekly
• 4-10 hours of group therapy weekly
• 1-2 hours of family therapy weekly
• Relapse prevention strategy training
• Specialized encephalopathy recovery interventions

Specialized Youth Services for Englewood, CO Adolescents

The Bannock House in Englewood delivers intensive residential care for high-risk, disadvantaged, and sometimes homeless adolescents. Many residents include teen mothers who receive dedicated parenting education from a Master's Level Director of Child Development. This comprehensive approach addresses both immediate safety needs and long-term development goals.

Educational advancement remains central to the treatment philosophy, with mandatory enrollment in the Joan Farley Academy. Residents pursue either high school diploma completion or GED attainment while maintaining a full-time schedule balancing academic responsibilities with therapeutic activities. The average residential treatment duration spans approximately 7.5 months, allowing sufficient time for meaningful intervention and skill development for young people throughout the Englewood community.

Therapeutic Environment and Staff

Third Way Center employs over 120 full-time staff members including state-licensed Master Level Therapists who specialize in adolescent mental health and addiction treatment. The professional team creates a structured yet nurturing environment that fosters both emotional growth and practical life skills development. Their approach emphasizes that trauma is curable through proper intervention and support.

Founded in 1970 by Dr. Hildegard Messenbaugh, the center maintains its original mission as a nonprofit organization dedicated to long-term transformation for vulnerable youth. The therapeutic environment intentionally develops independent living capabilities through practical engagement in meal planning, shopping, cooking, cleaning, and childcare for teen parents. This holistic approach prepares adolescents for successful community reintegration beyond their treatment period.