Waco Center for Youth
3501 North 19th Street, Waco, TX 76708
Est. 1979 1 care level
(833) 567-5838
Free · Confidential · 24/7
About Waco Center for Youth
The Waco Center for Youth is a residential treatment facility in Texas that serves adolescents aged 13 to 17 with severe emotional or behavioral challenges. Operated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, the center provides a range of services including individual, family, and group therapy, medication management, medical services, therapeutic recreation, and educational instruction through a partnership with Axtell Independent School District. Additional offerings include an equine program, social and self-regulation skills training, dietary support, spiritual services, and aftercare planning.
The center uses a strength-based treatment model, which focuses on youth’s strengths and teaches new skills as needed. Its treatment approach is guided by five core values: Helping, Healing, Relationship, Responsibility, and Commitment. Adolescents live on campus while receiving care and attend school on-site. Educational staff work with students who come from across the state, addressing both academic needs and behavioral or emotional issues.
Waco Center for Youth also implements a behavior incentive system, where clients earn stars for meeting daily goals related to school, therapy, and programming. These stars can be exchanged for items at an on-campus store called The CeNTER. Admission to the facility requires that a legal guardian initiate the process, with referrals accepted from local mental health authorities, state hospitals, or Child Protective Services. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including age, psychiatric diagnosis, and documented behavioral difficulties in at least two settings.
The center uses a strength-based treatment model, which focuses on youth’s strengths and teaches new skills as needed. Its treatment approach is guided by five core values: Helping, Healing, Relationship, Responsibility, and Commitment. Adolescents live on campus while receiving care and attend school on-site. Educational staff work with students who come from across the state, addressing both academic needs and behavioral or emotional issues.
Waco Center for Youth also implements a behavior incentive system, where clients earn stars for meeting daily goals related to school, therapy, and programming. These stars can be exchanged for items at an on-campus store called The CeNTER. Admission to the facility requires that a legal guardian initiate the process, with referrals accepted from local mental health authorities, state hospitals, or Child Protective Services. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including age, psychiatric diagnosis, and documented behavioral difficulties in at least two settings.
Who This Center Serves
Adolescents
Children
Girls
Boys
Amenities & Features
Access to Nature
View
Soccer Field
Tennis Court
Gardens
Walking Trails
Services Offered
What to Expect at Waco Center for Youth
1. Initial Assessment
A clinical team evaluates your history, needs, and goals to create a personalized plan.
2. Active Treatment
Evidence-based therapies including 1-on-1 Counseling and Family Therapy, typically 30 days.
3. Progress & Recovery
Regular progress reviews, skill-building sessions, and adjustment of your treatment plan.
4. Aftercare Planning
Continued support, relapse prevention strategies, and connections to community resources for lasting recovery.
Contact Information
Quick Facts
| Program | 30 days |
| Focus | At this center, you receive pe... |
| Insurance | 24 accepted |
Therapies & Methods
Treatment Philosophy
Personalized Treatment
Individual Treatment
Family Involvement
Insurance Accepted
Waco Center for Youth works with 24 insurance providers.
Verify Your Insurance Coverage
Free verification · Know your costs before you commit
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help Choosing the Right Center?
Our counselors are available 24/7 to help you find the right program.
(833) 567-5838Free · Confidential · No Obligation
Information last verified: April 2026 · Data sourced from SAMHSA