About YRTCs
The Youth Regional Treatment Centers (YRTCs) are dedicated to delivering high-quality, holistic treatment for alcohol and substance use for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth and their families. In a residential environment, care is grounded in the integration of traditional healing practices, spiritual values, and cultural identity to support lasting wellness and resilience.
What Makes the YRTCs Unique?
- Emphasis on AI/AN culture is a central component:
- Affirming cultural norms of sobriety, responsibility to the Tribe, village, band and/or clan
- Culturally appropriate care (i.e., AI/AN practice-based and evidenced-based practices)
- Design and location of the centers
- Program components such as family involvement, alcohol/substance use education, food services, and recreation
- Cultural practices involving healing
- YRTC treatment services are available to eligible AI/AN youth and families at no cost
- AI/AN youth have the opportunity to receive treatment in their region
YRTC Focus
- The primary focus of the YRTCs is to provide treatment to youth who misuse alcohol and/or drugs;
- The treatment goals include eliminating physical and psychological dependence on alcohol and/or drugs;
- Treatment of physical and other illnesses identified during treatment;
- The development of independent living skills;
- Provision of schooling appropriate to the youth's level of academic achievement and needs; and
- Helping the youth to develop and implement an aftercare plan to maintain sobriety after discharge.
