Skip to main content
School
High school

Third Way Center

Denver, CO 80206
Established
1970
Accreditation
Two state-approved facility schools (Colorado)

School profile

Overview

Third Way Center offers truth and hope to some of Colorado's most vulnerable adolescents and their families. Founded in 1970 by psychiatrist Hildegard Messenbaugh, MD, the nonprofit grew from a single shelter for at-risk teens into a continuum of care across metro Denver, combining home-like residential settings with specialized education and clinical treatment.

Education happens through Joan Farley Academy, two state-approved facility schools staffed by licensed Master's-level special education teachers, school social workers, and counselors trained to support traumatized youth. Small class sizes, experiential learning, and vocational partnerships give students a path to a high school diploma or GED. Eighty percent of eligible students earn that credential during their time in the program.

Treatment is rooted in a trauma-informed philosophy that recognizes how trauma changes the brain. The center's Six Boxes methodology and its encephalopathy unit pair clinical care with practices like meditation, sound therapy, and yoga, so students can heal first and then focus on learning, growth, and a healthy future.

Get in touch with Third Way Center

Ask about the school environment, admissions, tuition, availability, or whether the program may be a fit for your child.

Your information is shared only so this school can respond to your request.

Services and student support

Programs & Support

Trauma-informed treatmentPsychiatric careEncephalopathy (brain healing) unitMeditation, sound therapy, and yogaLicensed school social workers and counselorstraumaemotional_behavioralmental_healthsubstance_usetraumatic_brain_injuryHigh schoolTwo state-approved facility schools (Colorado)Council on Accreditation (COA / Social Current)

Who is this school for?

  • School
  • High school

What opportunities are there beyond the classroom?

  • School

Other Important Info

  • trauma
  • emotional_behavioral
  • mental_health
  • substance_use
  • traumatic_brain_injury

Available details

Tuition & Logistics

Financial Options

Referral-based placement through referring agencies and school districtsSupported by the Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit
Share

Sponsored

Sponsored Harkla sensory swing: your child's new favorite place to hang

Are you a representative of Third Way Center?

Manage your school's information and respond to reviews

Reviews

All Reviews

Also Looking for ABA Therapy in Denver?

Many families combine specialized school programs with ABA therapy services. Find ABA therapy centers in Denver, CO that can complement your child's education.

Find ABA Therapy Centers in Denver →

Other Schools in Denver, CO

Bansbach Academy (Denver Children's Home)

Denver, CO
trauma emotional_behavioral
No reviews yet

At Denver Children's Home, Bansbach Academy serves as a key component in the holistic care of children and teens, offering a therapeutic, educational environment that promotes both academic achievement and personal growth. Accredited by AdvancED and the Colorado Department of Education, we integrate core academics with programs designed to support social-emotional development, self-sufficiency, leadership, and character building. Classes are intentionally kept small, with an average of 8 to 10 students, enabling personalized attention from our special education teachers, who work alongside Youth Treatment Counselors so each student receives tailored support. Students participate in core academic subjects including math, language arts, social studies, science, health, and physical education, while also engaging in programs that promote life skills and character development. Our goal is to equip students with the academic skills, social-emotional tools, and coping strategies they need to succeed in a public-school setting and beyond. Through individualized instruction, therapeutic support such as equine, art, and music therapy, and hands-on learning experiences, we help students build a foundation for future success, both academically and personally.

View Details

Beyond Exceptional

Denver, CO
Ages 5-12 ADHD Autism
No reviews yet

Beyond Exceptional is a homeschool enrichment program in Denver for diverse learners in grades K-12, built for children with combinations of ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and gifted or highly gifted profiles who have not thrived in a conventional classroom. Learning happens outdoors and in the real world through monthly hands-on transdisciplinary projects, with personalized learning plans and assessments for each student. Program strands include Forest School, environmental education, STEAM, creative writing and media studies, and life skills, taught by a leader holding Level 3 Forest School Leader certification from the United Kingdom. Classes are capped at 12 students. Community service and social innovation projects are part of the year, and community partnerships bring in specialized instruction.

View Details

Colorado School Of English

Denver, CO
No reviews yet

Colorado School of English is dedicated to providing comprehensive English language training tailored to the diverse needs of its students. Serving individuals ranging from international students seeking F1 visas to U.S. residents and tourists, the school offers a variety of programs designed to enhance language proficiency for academic, professional, or personal goals. Key offerings include intensive English programs for both new and transfer students, specialized courses for au pairs that meet J1 visa requirements, and short-term classes for B1/B2 visa holders. The school prides itself on its empathetic approach to education, utilizing a supportive environment and experienced instructors to foster language acquisition. What sets Colorado School of English apart is its commitment to individualized learning experiences, evidenced by options for private lessons that cater specifically to each student's unique needs. Additionally, the school's strong focus on community engagement and cultural integration enriches the learning experience, making it a welcoming place for students from all backgrounds.

View Details