Admissions & Referrals
A clear, responsive process for placement coordinators, caseworkers, and families seeking residential treatment services.
Who We Serve
Katy Youth Care provides residential treatment for young men ages 10–17 who are in DFPS conservatorship and require therapeutic residential care. Our residents typically present with:
- History of trauma, abuse, or neglect
- Emotional and/or behavioral disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Intellectual Developmental Disabilities (IDD/ICFIDD)
- Juvenile justice involvement
- Complex trauma histories
- Moderate to Intense Plus service level needs
Referral Sources
We accept referrals and work closely with a range of agencies and professionals in the child welfare system.
DFPS & CPS
Our primary referral source. We work directly with DFPS placement coordinators and CPS caseworkers to identify and serve youth who need residential treatment.
Juvenile Justice System
Judges, court personnel, juvenile probation officers, and attorneys ad litem seeking residential placement for youth with justice system involvement.
Mental Health Providers
Hospitals, psychiatric facilities, and community mental health authorities referring youth who need step-down residential treatment.
School Districts
Special education departments and behavioral intervention teams identifying students who need residential-level support.
Foster Care & Adoption Agencies
Therapeutic foster care agencies and post-adoption agencies seeking placement for youth with complex needs.
Community Organizations
Nonprofits and advocacy groups supporting at-risk youth and families in the Greater Houston area.
The Placement Process
Our streamlined process ensures a thoughtful, responsive approach to every referral. Admission decisions are made within 24 hours.
Inquiry
A DFPS placement coordinator or referral source contacts Katy Youth Care. We conduct an initial screening of the child's needs and service level, and confirm bed availability.
Referral Packet Review
Our LCCA and Clinical Director review the child's history, behavioral profile, treatment needs, and medical/psychiatric information. We assess fit with our program capabilities and make a decision within 24 hours.
Pre-Admission Staffing
A conference call is scheduled with the DFPS caseworker and our clinical team to discuss the child's needs, challenges, and goals. We coordinate treatment planning and logistics.
Admission
Transportation is arranged. Upon arrival, the youth receives a welcome and orientation, initial health screening, room assignment and belongings inventory, introduction to staff and peers, and a review of rights and responsibilities. A 72-hour treatment plan is initiated.
Ongoing Engagement
Regular communication with DFPS caseworkers, monthly progress reports, service plan updates, and coordinated discharge planning ensure continuity of care throughout the youth's stay.
What Families Can Expect
During the Stay
Families and caregivers are valued partners in every youth's treatment journey. Throughout a youth's time at Katy Youth Care, families can expect:
- Regular phone and video calls
- On-site family visits (scheduled)
- Community visits (as approved)
- Family therapy sessions (as appropriate)
- Progress updates and transparent communication
- Holiday and special event participation
- Sibling visits facilitated
Treatment Planning
Every youth receives an individualized treatment experience:
- 72-Hour Treatment Plan — Completed within 72 hours of admission with initial goals, safety planning, and immediate needs assessment
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment — Completed within 30 days including psychological, social, educational, and medical evaluation
- Individualized Service Plan — Developed collaboratively with the youth (age 14+), family, and DFPS caseworker. Updated minimally every 90 days
- Monthly Progress Reports — Transparent tracking and communication on goals and outcomes
Ready to Make a Referral?
Contact Katy Youth Care today to discuss a placement. We respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.