The Green Chimneys Difference

Uniquely integrated special education and clinical treatment in a dynamic nature-based setting

Green Chimneys was founded on the philosophy that it is healthy and therapeutic for children to interact with nature. Green Chimneys School and Residential Treatment Center takes a team-based, nature-focused approach to children’s mental health, in which all interactions with staff and the environment have a potential therapeutic value.

Nature provides an equalizing environment where students can overcome challenges and experience success.

Interaction with animals fosters trust, emotional regulation, and responsibility, while nature and environmental immersion enhance concentration and patience, and elevate mood. These benefits provide the foundation for improved social, academic and physical well-being.

A woman and a child engage with a friendly pig outdoors, gently petting and feeding it beside a barn and wooden fence—an example of nature based therapy supporting connection, calm, and emotional growth.

Students have access to a variety of nature-based program options – from animal care to horticulture – and participate in activities that engage them in purposeful, skill-building tasks that help them to connect with others, develop self-regulation, and discover inherent strengths. Whether it’s taking a walk to the farm to ease anxiety, holding class in an open stall, planting vegetables, or bringing a campus dog to help a child deescalate emotions, staff support students in interactions ranging from informal opportunities to highly structured, intentional work.

In a program that seamlessly blends nature- and animal-based activities with academics and clinical support, a team of educators, clinicians, social workers, farm and wildlife experts, and recreation specialists collaborate to provide individualized education and interventions, ensuring a comprehensive support system for each and every student.

A young girl waters plants in a garden bed with a bright green watering can, engaging in nature based therapy that builds confidence, calm, and hands-on connection with the outdoors.

Residential treatment for the highest level of support

Green Chimneys is a leader in the field of special education and therapeutic treatment, and recognized as a model for schools and agencies that serve youth. As a children’s services organization, we hold to the highest standards for safety and quality care, and are proud of our dedicated staff who provide students critical support and a caring environment.

  1. Residential Treatment Center serves approximately 100 students with complete housing and clinical services in an accepting and affirming environment.
  2. Residential students benefit from 24/7 support and supervision with programming and routines that promote life skills, socialization, and healthy recreation.
  3. Clinical care is trauma-informed and family-centered to help students – and families – develop confidence and competence in relationships and interpersonal skills through individual counseling, family therapy, and ongoing communication.
  4. Evidence-based clinical approaches include but are not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and therapeutic treatments, such as Play Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy.
Three students play and interact on a grassy lawn outside campus buildings, engaging in nature based therapy that promotes movement, social connection, and emotional well-being.

Program Outcomes*

  • 86% of residential students discharged to a lower level of care
  • 89% of students were stabilized and remained within their residential program, avoiding hospitalization
  • 83% of all students integrated into our program without additional tiered supports or interventions

*Based on 2024-25 Response to Intervention data. Additional interventions implemented within agency MTSS system.

Long-Term Impact: Post-Discharge Outcomes**

  • 85% of discharged students have remained out of hospitalization
  • 87% of discharged students are maintaining positive parent relationships
  • 80% of discharged students are demonstrating good symptom management
  • 82% of discharged students are continuing an overall functioning rating of fair, good, or very good

**Based on data from Post-Discharge Surveys of students and families May 2024-February 2026.

Learn More About Green Chimneys’ Program

Referral

Green Chimneys Admissions is the point of entry for children and families, and all referrals are made through a student’s home school district. Our seasoned Admissions Team works with parents, school districts, hospitals, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, medical doctors, parent advocates, and attorneys to identify the needs of each student referred, and assess the appropriateness of the Green Chimneys educational and therapeutic program. Admissions has a rolling schedule and referrals are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Referral and application process

  • We follow New York State academic curriculum standards designated for Elementary, Intermediate and High School programs.

  • The trust and friendship established with a favorite animal often becomes the basis for connection leading to educational, social or emotional progress.

  • An integrated program of counseling, psychotherapy, family work, and animal-assisted/nature-based activities supports the individual needs of every resident.