About Chrysalis

A well-rounded boarding school leads to a well-rounded individual.

Nestled in scenic northwest Montana is a place where young girls come to find themselves. Chrysalis therapeutic boarding school is a 47-acre haven for girls ages 13 to 18 struggling with a variety of emotional, relational, and academic challenges. Our unique holistic approach includes:

  • Highly qualified and caring academic and clinical experts
  • A proven comprehensive and individualized program (ask about our data collection!)
  • A robust, year round adventure therapy program
  • A specialization in relational development and family-style living
  • A calm and beautiful setting conducive to healing
  • Biannual international travel opportunities and local excursions

Chrysalis was founded in 1998 by two clinicians who dreamed of creating a residential treatment program that paralleled life at home. Over the past twenty-two years the school has grown while also maintaining the core principles of relational treatment. Today, Chrysalis is accredited by the National Independent Private Schools Association (NIPSA) and officially licensed and registered with the Montana Department of Health and Human Services. We are members of the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) and the Association for Experiential Education (AEE).

Why are we located in Montana?

Chrysalis is intentionally located in northwest Montana to promote opportunities for self-reflection and healing away from urban distractions.  We are in close proximity to the solitude of wild places where deep healing and self-exploration unfolds spontaneously, close to a town aptly named “Eureka!”

Our backyard is a large outdoor playground in pristine mountains with challenging rock faces, downhill skiing,  wild rivers, and grand forests where experiences await students. The campus provides inspiring views of the Whitefish mountain range; our lakeshore invites nourishing, contemplative moments along with hours of water activities in the summer.

Families quickly discover that our location is what sets us apart and allows us to facilitate robust programming year round. Our setting removes the distractions of peer pressure, implicit expectations and other issues that may have brought our students here in the first place. An outdoor environment allows them to have an appreciation for something greater than themselves by giving them a sense of connection, meaning, and purpose.

Chrysalis has made all the difference for many families and young girls. Even those who have not had success with other programs emerge from a state of emotional anguish and self-destructive behavior to develop a stable, enlightened and empowered sense of self.