Whitaker Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) is a secure, non‑acute residential treatment program in Butner, North Carolina. On the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) facility page, Whitaker is described as serving **children ages 13–17** who have emotional and behavioral challenges and require secure residential care.

Psychiatric residential treatment is often considered when a young person needs 24/7 supervision and intensive therapeutic support to stabilize symptoms and safely practice coping skills. Families can ask how intake and assessment are completed, how treatment plans are individualized, and what a typical day includes (therapy, education, supervised activities, and skills coaching).

The official facility description emphasizes comprehensive, evidence‑based, and trauma‑informed services provided by an interdisciplinary team. Caregivers may want to ask what therapeutic approaches are used, how psychiatric services and medication management are handled when appropriate, and what expectations exist for participation in treatment activities.

Education continuity is part of the program structure. Families can ask how academics are delivered during the stay, how special education supports are coordinated with a teen’s home district, and how re‑entry planning is managed at discharge.

Transition planning and coordination with community supports often determine whether gains made in residential care carry over after discharge. Caregivers can ask what discharge planning looks like, what step‑down services are commonly recommended, and how the program coordinates with outpatient providers, schools, and other systems supporting the youth.

If your family is researching secure residential treatment options in North Carolina for a teen ages 13–17, Whitaker PRTF is one state‑operated program to learn more about through NCDHHS. Review the official facility information and follow the referral guidance provided on the state website.