Orchard Place Residential Campus
Company Description
Orchard Place’s Residential Campus in Des Moines is Iowa’s largest Psychiatric Medical Institute for Children (PMIC), serving boys and girls ages 10–18 who require intensive psychiatric care in a structured environment. Licensed for 103 beds, the 10‑acre campus includes four residential cottages, a family services center, a medical clinic, gymnasium, greenhouse and school [1]. Youth come to Orchard Place with a wide range of diagnoses including mood disorders, trauma‑related conditions and developmental challenges. From the moment of admission, each child receives a thorough assessment and an individualized treatment plan designed to improve psychological, emotional and academic functioning, with the goal of successfully returning home or to a less restrictive setting [1].
Daily life on campus is highly structured yet family‑like. Residents live in cottages staffed by trained professionals who provide 24‑hour supervision and consistent routines. Mornings begin with personal care and breakfast, followed by attendance at the on‑site school where teachers from the Des Moines School District help students keep pace with their peers. Afternoons include group therapy sessions, individual counseling, skills training and recreational activities such as art, music, exercise and pet therapy [3]. Youth also participate in chores and learn daily living skills. Evenings feature homework time, leisure activities and therapeutic groups; families are encouraged to visit and take part in treatment from the first week [4]. The campus’s greenhouse and recreation areas offer opportunities for gardening, sports and other therapeutic experiences.
Family involvement is integral to the Orchard Place model. Parents and caregivers meet weekly with clinicians to learn about their child’s progress, participate in therapy and practice skills that will support a successful transition home [4]. The program stresses the importance of maintaining family relationships and provides resources to help caregivers understand their child’s condition and develop new parenting strategies.
Because many residents have experienced trauma or multiple foster placements, staff focus on building trusting relationships and teaching self‑regulation through evidence‑based treatments. A dedicated medical clinic provides medication management and health care on site, while case managers coordinate aftercare services and help families navigate community resources.
Located at 925 SW Porter Avenue in Des Moines [2], Orchard Place offers a comprehensive, collaborative approach that gives Iowa youth the structure, therapy and support needed to move toward healing and independence.
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