What Are Residential Children’s Services in WV? A Parent’s Guide to OHFLAC Level II Care

If you are searching for support for a child facing emotional or behavioral challenges, you may come across the term “residential children’s services WV.” Understanding what this means, how it works, and how it can help is the first step toward finding the right resources for your family.

St. John’s Home for Children is a licensed Residential Children’s Services Level II facility in West Virginia. We provide trauma-informed care for boys ages 6 to 12 who have experienced abuse, neglect, or emotional hardship. With structured support, therapy, and compassion, we help children stabilize, heal, and build toward a brighter future.

What Is OHFLAC Level II Residential Care?

Residential children’s services are regulated by the West Virginia Office of Health Facility Licensure and Certification (OHFLAC). Level II facilities like St. John’s provide 24/7 care for children with mild to moderate emotional or behavioral needs who are not currently safe or supported in their home environment.

This level of care offers a structured, therapeutic setting that supports children through healing, growth, and transitions, whether the goal is reunification with family or another safe placement.

What Services Are Provided at a Level II Facility?

Children in Level II residential care receive a wide range of wraparound services designed to meet their individual needs. At St. John’s Home, our services include:

• Clinical evaluations
• Individualized treatment plans
• Case management
• Behavior management support
• Individual, group, and family therapy
• Supportive counseling
• Life skills training and development
• Character education and recreation
• Case consultation with providers and agencies

These services are delivered in a nurturing, home-like environment where relationships are built on trust, accountability, and consistency.

FAQ: Understanding Residential Children’s Services WV

Q: Who qualifies for residential care at a Level II facility?
A: Children typically qualify through a referral process involving county child welfare agencies, mental health professionals, or courts. Boys ages 6 to 12 with trauma histories or significant emotional needs are eligible for placement at St. John’s Home for Children.

Q: How long do children stay in residential care?
A: Length of stay varies based on the child’s treatment goals. Some children stay a few months; others may require longer support as they prepare for the next step in their care plan.

Q: Can families stay involved during residential placement?
A: Yes. At St. John’s, family involvement is strongly encouraged. We support ongoing communication and therapy with parents or caregivers whenever possible.

Why Residential Care Matters in West Virginia

Many families in West Virginia face challenges due to poverty, addiction, trauma, or generational instability. Residential programs like St. John’s Home provide a crucial safety net for children who need more than outpatient or foster care can offer.

By addressing emotional needs in a therapeutic, structured setting, residential children’s services give kids the chance to heal and thrive. They also relieve families who are overwhelmed and seeking a partner in their child’s healing journey.

Signs Your Child May Need Residential Care

If you are unsure whether residential services are appropriate for your child, consider the following signs:

• Persistent behavioral issues despite outpatient therapy
• Emotional instability that affects school, family, and daily life
• Difficulty forming healthy relationships or trusting adults
• A trauma history that has not been fully addressed
• Safety concerns in the home or community

Speaking with your child’s therapist or care coordinator can help guide this decision.

How to Access Residential Children’s Services WV

Access to residential care usually begins with a referral from a child welfare caseworker, therapist, or behavioral health provider. If you are seeking help, speak with your local Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) office, school counselor, or primary care provider to begin the process.

St. John’s Home is proud to be part of the child welfare network in West Virginia. Our staff works closely with families and professionals to ensure every child receives the support and structure they need.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

If you are navigating emotional or behavioral challenges with a child, you are not alone. There are resources, professionals, and care programs that can help.

St. John’s Home for Children offers licensed residential children’s services in a compassionate, home-like environment. We believe every child deserves the chance to heal and build a brighter future.

To learn more about placement or to speak with our team, call (304) 242-5633.