Admissions & Referrals

Nebraska Juvenile Probation

We work closely with juvenile probation officers throughout Nebraska to provide Group Home A housing for youth under court supervision who are working through trauma, chemical dependency, and behavioral issues.

Demographics

• Male-identifying youth
• Ages 12–18
• Must be legally eligible for group home placement

Background

• History of behavioral, emotional, or placement instability
• History of substance abuse or chemical dependency
• Mental health challenges requiring therapeutic support
• May include juvenile justice involvement
• Foster care or family instability
• Educational or behavioral challenges

Safety & Medical

• Non-violent offense history
• Medically stable
• No active suicidal or homicidal ideation
• No severe developmental disabilities requiring specialized care

Social Functioning

• Able to function in a group setting
• Capable of participating in programming
• No severe behavioral issues that would endanger others
• Willing to engage in treatment (or court-ordered to do so)

Step 1: Initial Contact

Contact our admissions team to discuss the youth's needs and determine if Heartland is an appropriate fit.

• Phone consultation with program staff
• Preliminary eligibility screening
• Discussion of immediate needs and timeline

Step 2: Documentation

Provide required documentation for full assessment:

• Referral form and background information
• Medical and mental health records
• Educational records and IEP (if applicable)
• Legal documentation (court orders, probation terms)
• Previous placement history

Step 3: Assessment

Our team reviews all documentation and may conduct:

• Clinical assessment interview
• Family/guardian consultation
• Coordination with referring agency
• Treatment planning discussion

Step 4: Admission Decision

Final steps in the admission process:

• Admission decision communicated within 48 hours
• Intake scheduling and preparation
• Orientation for youth and family
• Initial treatment plan development

Intake Day

• Orientation to facility and rules
• Medical and mental health screening
• Personal belongings inventory
• Initial goal setting
• Introduction to staff and peers
• Family contact and communication plan

First Week

• Comprehensive assessment completion
• Individual treatment plan development
• Educational assessment and placement
• Therapy sessions begin
• Level system orientation
• Family therapy planning

Ongoing Support

• Weekly progress reviews
• Regular family communication
• Coordination with referring agency
• Discharge planning from day one
• Aftercare service coordination

Clothing & Personal Items

• 7 days worth of weather-appropriate clothing
• Undergarments and socks
• Pajamas and comfortable clothes
• Personal hygiene items
• Prescription medications (in original containers)
• Glasses or contacts if needed

Educational Materials

• School transcripts and records
• Current textbooks or assignments
• IEP or 504 plan documentation
• Any educational testing results

Items Not Permitted

• Electronic devices (phones, tablets, gaming systems)
• Weapons or items that could be used as weapons
• Drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products
• Inappropriate clothing or materials
• Large amounts of cash
• Items with gang affiliations