Ironwood is an independent residential treatment center and private school committed to helping families in crisis with troub ... led teens. Ironwood prioritizes positive relationship development while utilizing a behavioral support model, comprehensive therapy, and disciplined academics to cultivate personal growth and positive change. Our goal is to assess and treat the underlying causes of challenging behavior, to cultivate family reunification and communication, and to help establish and develop a strong self-esteem in the residents we serve. Ironwood is coeducational and licensed by the State of Maine to serve 45 residents, ages 13-18, over an average 9-12 month length of stay. Over the past 10 years, Ironwood has focused on building foundational communication and life skills, in addition to improving the basic educational skills of reading, writing, and math. Using a level system, residents are challenged to meet therapeutic, behavioral, and educational goals, designed to reinforce self-reliance and a strong self-esteem. Ironwood is divided into two campuses, the Frye campus (levels 1 and 2) is a highly structured, rule oriented environment, intended to establish acceptance and reinforce respect for one's self and others. The Farm House (levels 3 and 4) focuses more on developing the internal character traits of honesty, integrity, and motivational values. We have a separate campus which is called Ironwood Lake House which also hosts level 4 and level 5 students who are ready for a higher tier of freedom to explore with their new found skill sets acquired at the earlier stages of the program. Here they have a chance to map out life after Ironwood, prepare for college and/or work life and may even secure a job in the local area. These aspects of the program consistently use routines that encourage residents to become more self-directed, responsible, and emotionally mature, ultimately working toward the successful employment of Ironwood's mission. read more