The Restorative Healing Model: Implementation At The Woodbourne Center

This study describes the Restorative Healing Model used at the Woodbourne Center (Baltimore) to improve socially adaptive functioning and behaviors among youth residing in a residential treatment center. This treatment model requires collaborative work with youth, their families, staff members, and community members. Unlike program models built on pathological or punitive approaches, the Restorative Healing Model offers empowerment and strength-based perspectives to vulnerable youth by integrating three evidence-based or promising practices: aggression replacement training, restorative justice, and trauma-centered care. In addition to reviewing empirical support for the model, we present examples of the model's use within the residential treatment center environment.