Lutherwood, part of the ministry of Lutheran Child & Family Services of Indiana/Kentucky, is a residential treatment center that serves boys and girls ages 6-21 who are recovering from the effects of abuse, neglect, abandonment, and/or are experiencing chronic behavior problems and emotional problems. Some residents may also have a history of hurting themselves or others, and some may also show symptoms of psychiatric disorders and perhaps have been unsuccessful in other, less restrictive programs.

Located on a 22-acre wooded campus on Indianapolis’ near east side, facilities include 4 open units, 2 secure units, outdoor playgrounds, a gymnasium, and an administrative building. Treatment includes “short-term Stabilization, Family Reunification, Character-Based Interventions, and Independent Living Skills Training,” incorporating behavior management in the therapeutic milieu, daily sessions with Youth Counselors and aftercare follow-up telephone contact. Intensive treatment services, included family therapy, are provided in collaboration with Gallahue Community Mental Health Center. Kindergarten through twelfth grade education is provided through Indianapolis Public Schools, starting out on-grounds at Lutherwood, with students transitioning to schools in the community as soon as they are ready.

Individual treatment plans at Lutherwood are created for each resident’s specific emotional issues, with the ultimate goal of reunification with the community and/or family. Children are referred to Lutherwood through public as well as private referral sources.