When youth experience crisis, everything in their world can feel uncertain. Many have lived through loss, trauma, and sudden changes that would overwhelm even the strongest adult. In those moments, Intensive Therapeutic Transitional Care (ITTC) offers a safe harbor — a place where kids can recover and feel safe.

This fall, Connecticut will open two new short-term ITTC treatment centers located at Waterford Country School — one for girls and one for boys, each with six beds — as part of a statewide effort to improve emergency placement for teenagers in the child welfare system. This new program will add to WCS’s existing child welfare programs.

ITTC programs offer comprehensive clinical support with a strong focus on stabilization and transition. Youth receive 24/7 care from trained clinicians and support staff who tend to their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Staff utilize compassion, patience, and evidence-based assessments to guide each child toward a successful, safe, and stable placement.

CEO Chris Lacey describes the mission simply: “Kids are kids. They have different ages and different needs… what we’re trying to do in this child welfare system is match what the kids need when they need it.”

These short-term, intensive care centers aren’t just a pause in a child’s journey — they are a turning point. Providing stability amidst life’s uncertainties, ITTC facilitates healing while giving caregivers the insight and tools needed help kids to thrive long-term.

Waterford Country School is busy preparing to welcome youth into our new ITTC programs this fall. While we ready the spaces, we’re also building a team of skilled, compassionate professionals who want to make a difference in the lives of children in crisis. If you’re looking for meaningful work, visit the Careers page on our website to explore current openings — and join us in creating a safe, supportive place for kids to heal and grow.

https://www.waterfordcountryschool.org/careers/