Residential Treatment in Onarga
Onarga Campus
110 North Locust St.
Onarga, IL 60955
Phone: 815-268-4001
Fax: 815-268-7977
Admissions: 815-802-3720
Human Resources: 815-268-4001 ext. 05504
Program snapshot
- Located in Onarga, IL
- For males, ages 10-20
- Sexually problematic behaviors program
- Emotional, behavioral, and mental health program
- On-campus school for grades 6-12 and vocational programs
- Transitional living programs
Located in a quaint, historic setting in the quiet community of Onarga, Illinois, our Onarga campus is about 90 miles south of Chicago. We work hard to make our facility as home-like and welcoming as possible.
Programs offered
All programs below are offered for males, ages 10 – 21.
Sexually problematic behaviors program
We specialize in working with kids who demonstrate sexually problematic behaviors. Our treatment program is based on the most current research and national standards, and our focus is on treating the whole child, not just a single issue. We’re committed to breaking the cycle of sexual harm so healing can begin.
Emotional, behavioral, and mental health program
When a child’s behavior becomes unmanageable—even with high levels of adult intervention, and even when the child is provided with love, structure, and protection—that child is most likely experiencing emotional, behavioral, or mental health issues.
We are experts in working with youth who have ongoing emotional and/or behavioral manifestations, like aggression, self-harm, social withdrawal, emotional outbursts, inappropriate social interactions, inability to self-regulate/self-soothe, and suicidal tendencies.
Education and vocational programs
Grand Prairie School snapshot:
- Teachers and special education staff are certified and licensed by the Illinois Department of Education
- Grades 6-12
- Operates on a 12-month schedule that allows students to enter during any month of the year
- Special educational instruction, including therapy and behavioral intervention/support
- Nationally accredited through the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA-CASI), an accreditation division of AdvancED
Grand Prairie School
Grand Prairie School is our on-campus, private school that serves youth receiving treatment at Nexus Family Healing. Considered an integral component of the treatment process, Grand Prairie School is equipped to provide middle school through high school academic services, as well as special educational instruction, including therapy and behavioral intervention/support.
Our teachers and staff are fully trained in therapeutic approaches and techniques, and we have internal systems in place to ensure collaboration between the school and the residential programs. Residential program staff is readily available in the event of a crisis with a student.
Grand Prairie School operates on a 12-month schedule that allows students to enter during any month of the year. Differentiated classrooms and individualized planning maximize each student’s strengths and learning styles. In addition, students receive extra support services from behavioral specialists and a school therapist. Students receive instruction as outlined in the common core standards, as well as instruction in study skills, life and career planning, drug and alcohol prevention, and sexuality, as appropriate for age and grade.
Specialized educational programming for youth with Grand Prairie School is nationally accredited through the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA-CASI), an accreditation division of AdvancED. Teachers and special education staff are certified and licensed by the Illinois Department of Education, which means credits can transfer to any school upon a client’s discharge.
Vocational opportunities
Males, ages 15–20
We provide several opportunities for youth to build vocational skills. Grand Prairie School students can take classes through our Industrial Arts program, which includes auto maintenance and carpentry skills. Cornerstone Café, operated by Nexus Family Healing in downtown Onarga, provides employment-training opportunities in business management, customer service, and barista skills for our older youth. Grand Prairie School youth also have the chance to gain Public Health Certifications.
Therapeutic foster program
Males, ages 11–19
Our therapeutic foster care program helps youth and their families in the transition and reunification process after completing a Nexus Family Healing residential treatment program. These services are currently only available for youth who are placed at Nexus through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
Our two licensed Treatment Family Foster Homes (TFFH) are located near our campus, and each serve 2-3 male youth at a time. These homes provide a therapeutic, community-based home setting that supports and encourages a youth’s continued treatment progress. We work closely with the youth’s designated family to support frequent family interaction, establish strong family communication, and involve families in day-to-day care, activities, and treatment decisions. Our goal is to help create positive family experiences and memories.
Transitional programs
Transitional living
Males, ages 17.5–21
Moving out of intensive residential treatment is an important time of transition. Our youth need time to practice what they’ve learned—in a less structured, but still highly supportive, environment. Our transitional living program helps prepare kids to successfully live on their own.
Independent living
Males, ages 18–21
Our goal is to help every kid we serve live an independent, pro-social life—one that’s safe and healthy for themselves and others.
“I honestly owe it all to you guys. I explore new coping skills and invest time in doing key things that help me. So thank you all.” – Former Client
For professionals and referral partners
If you are a state or county social worker or a community partner seeking residential treatment services for a child or youth, our programs are designed to meet complex needs.
Learn, connect, and get involved
From the Blog
What Teens Need: Parenting Both the Inner Child and the Emerging Young Adult in Your Teenager
Am I doing anything right? This question could easily be muttered by my teenagers or by me. Parenting teenagers is no easy feat, especially parenting teens with traumatic backgrounds. Learning to parent your teenager’s inner child while they emerge as a young adult can help you navigate this difficult stage.
From the Blog
One Cup at a Time
The Cornerstone Café serves as a vocational program of Nexus-Onarga Family Healing where youth in residence build real-world skills by applying, interviewing, training and working at the café.
Resource
Mental Health Readiness Plan
When you are feeling stressed or anxious, it can be hard to remember what techniques work for you. Creating a plan when you’re calm ensures you are ready when mental health challenges arise. Fill out the wallet-size card to create your mental health readiness plan.
OMS sidewalk brick project
Purchase an engraved commemorative brick honoring Onarga Military School (OMS) alumni and friends.
Our accreditations
Nexus’ programs in Illinois are accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA).