As a parent, entrusting someone else with my child--especially during his most vulnerable and difficult time--was one of the hardest decisions my family has ever made. Sending my son to White River Academy was not something our family took lightly, but I can honestly say it is one of the best decisions we've ever made. From the moment my family connected with the team at White River, we felt heard, supported, and understood. They have taken the time to truly get to know my son--not just his struggles, but his strengths, his story, and his potential. The staff are incredibly professional, but even more importantly, they are kind, compassionate, and deeply committed to the young men they serve. White River Academy has been truly life-changing for us. We have been and still are impressed by the professionalism, compassion, and dedication of the staff. The program is designed with deep care and intention, focusing not just on behavior modification but on healing the whole person--mentally, emotionally, and physically. We appreciate how they involve us in the process and keep communication open every step of the way. Through therapy, structure, and a lot of patience, I can see my son begin to transform. It's not overnight, but slowly and steadily we are seeing positive changes. What sets White River apart is their emphasis on relationship-based therapy and real-world accountability. The environment is structured yet supportive, helping my son rediscover his sense of purpose, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with our families in meaningful ways. The staff are not only highly qualified but also genuinely invested in the success of each student. We have found that Delta, Utah, is the perfect setting--quiet, grounded, and far removed from the chaos that had surrounded our lives. The area and building adds sense of peace, focus, minimalism and free from distractions. White River Academy is not a quick fix, but it is an incredibly effective and transformative program for families who are committed to long-term healing and growth. We are deeply grateful for everything they've done for our son and continue to do. read more

DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD HERE!!! Do not under any circumstances send your child to White River Academy. This place is simply unsafe as there is no on hand medical professional and staff members are grossly under-qualified. Even the teacher does not have a legal license to teach in Utah. The only licensed educator at the facility is the educational director named Kris Cary who only occasional consults the kids and even he is only liscensed to teach physical education and special education. The therapy aspect of the program is minimal, mostly relying on a hands off approach in which the kids are supposed to solve conflicts amoungst themselves. Yes, the other troubled youths are expected to give your child therapy and teach him how to behave. There is a therapist there, Dr Dan Sanderson who comes once a week for a 40 minute therapy session (although you pay for an hour). He spends no other time in the facility meaning that a regular therapist near you would be equally effective as that particular aspect. White River brags a technique called "positive peer culture" which is rejected by mainstream psychology as it is consider to be damaging especially for youths. You will notice how difficult it is finding information on this place due to the tight lid kept on the information they don't want you to know about. Please for the sake of your family keep your child away from this unsafe and unhealthy environment. For more information: http://heal-online.org/investigate.htm read more

Over the past few weeks I have had the opportunity to dive into the process that sets White River Academy apart from other programs. It starts with the therapy setting of a unified family. From there the prescriptive approach to assuring each student has a unique experience based on specific needs. The circle of understanding starts with the family unit and ends with an ongoing support system aimed at long term success for all involved. Dr. Dan, Justin and the team are doing some amazing things and I am honored to write this review of recommendation for those in need. read more