Where do most children come from?
While we serve all of California, most of our kids come from Alameda, Sonoma, Shasta, and San Francisco counties.

How can I place a child in your program?
Determining initial eligibility to our residential programs is a multi-phase process. The county departments of social service, mental health, or adoptions must first determine and approve a need for placement. Referrals are typically made by a case manager from one of these agencies. Parents can also make referrals but typically the funding comes from county public agencies and therefore final approval must always come from the county.

How long do children live at Burt Center?
Many factors affect the length of stay for the children in our program. The length of stay is generally eighteen to twenty-four months. Length of stay is usually determined by the family, the referring agency, and Burt Children’s Center.

What are the ages of the children you serve?
Children living in our residential program are between the ages of 6 and 12.

What are your measures of success?
The primary measure of success is whether or not a child, upon leaving the program, can transition to a less restrictive living environment. Typically most of our kids go back to live with their family or in community foster care.

How often can a parent or family member visit a child in your residential program?
Family involvement and outreach are critical components of our residential program. Family members are encouraged to visit as frequently as possible and as indicated, and their child is encouraged to visit home as well. A schedule of family visits and meeting times is usually arranged between the family and the therapist.

How does your residential program work?
The program is based on individualized approaches to each child. A multi-disciplinary team of staff (social workers, psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, teachers, and specialists) work closely with each child’s family to design a plan which addresses the child’s unique needs. Through the structure and flexibility of the program, the child is provided with new tools and skills which allow him/her to get along better with family members and peers. Services include individual, group and family therapy, recreation therapy, specialized classroom instruction, and more, all within an environment that maintains a high ratio of adults to children.