All posts by Katie Gerten

8 Signs of Depression in Kids that Parents Miss

March 21, 2025BlogKatie Gerten

8 Signs of Depression in Kids Parents Miss

Do you know the signs of depression in kids? They’re easy to miss. Yet, when overlooked, the outcome can be tragic.

Data shows that suicide is the second leading cause of death in youth, and a significant portion of those who pass are confronting the condition.

Below are eight indicators of childhood depression that every parent needs to be familiar with.

Signs of Depression in Kids

Deep & Persistent Sadness

Children with depression experience sadness that persists for two or more weeks. And it can be profound! They may have thoughts of suicide or talk about hurting themselves.

Learn more: 9 Warning Signs of Teen Suicide Parents Need to Know

Problems at School

Have you recently noticed a decline in your child’s school performance? Kids confronting depression often have a hard time concentrating, making decisions, and can be quicker to anger or emotional outbursts.

Be on the watch for a sudden drop in grades, school refusal, and new behavioral issues cropping up.

Changes in Weight or Eating Habits

Has your child recently lost or gained weight? Significant fluctuations in body size or sudden changes in eating habits may signify depression.

A Shift in Sleep Patterns

Have you noticed a change in your child’s sleep patterns? Maybe they’re struggling to fall asleep, waking in the middle of the night, or even sleeping far more than usual?

Depression can impact kids’ rest and wake cycles. So, pay attention to sudden shifts in your child’s sleep routine. It may be a sign that something more is going on.

Changes in Mood & Behavior

Does it feel like your child’s demeanor changed overnight? Take notice if they’ve suddenly developed a more negative attitude or are expressing feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness. And if they seem more agitated, irritable, or are quicker to get upset, it could also be a sign of depression.

Decrease in Self-Esteem

Does your once confident kid now seem to need frequent reassurance? A marked decrease in self-esteem is frequently an indicator of depression. Children with the condition tend to think negatively and very critically about themselves.

Withdrawal

Kids experiencing depression will frequently withdraw socially from friends and family. So, pay attention if your child no longer wants to participate in activities they once enjoyed.

Physical Pain

Depression is more than emotional pain—symptoms can frequently manifest physically. So look out for persistent fatigue, frequent headaches, stomach aches, or any other sudden unexplained discomfort. And remember, it’s essential to rule out underlying medical conditions with a doctor.

We’re Here to Help!

Do any of the signs and symptoms above sound familiar? Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) provides a wide range of wraparound mental health services designed to help kids heal. Contact us online to get a child support today.

Want More?

Did you find this article helpful? If so, check out the rest of our blog and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

Renovations Underway at River’s Edge Group Home

March 21, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

Big changes are underway at River’s Edge, one of our therapeutic group homes serving youth in Billings. With generous support from the Charles M. Bair Family Trust, renovations have officially begun—starting with brand-new, energy-efficient windows.

River’s Edge provides essential mental health support and safe housing for youth in need of stability, structure, and care in a family-style environment. These renovations are part of a more significant effort to strengthen the environment where healing happens every day.

Investing in the Future of River’s Edge

Thanks to HB 872 grant funding through the State of Montana, the next phase of improvements at River’s Edge includes new roofing, siding, and doors. These upgrades enhance safety, reduce energy costs, and support long-term sustainability—ensuring the home can continue to serve Montana kids for years to come.

Over time, the upgrades will set the stage for sustainably expanding our capacity to serve more kids through therapeutic group homes—a critical intermediary level of treatment between PRTF care at the Ranch and community-based services.

Renovations like these reflect our commitment to building safe, welcoming environments where youth can thrive. As we continue improving our facilities across the state, the work at River’s Edge marks a meaningful step forward in strengthening access to care.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

4 Tips to Parent Foster Children with Trauma History

March 20, 2025BlogKatie Gerten

Parenting a foster child with trauma history can be challenging.

Trauma profoundly influences brain development, impacting children’s behaviors, ability to regulate emotions, and even their capacity to form healthy relationships.

And for many, it’s coupled with attachment issues, rooted in everything from abuse and neglect early on in life to repeated moves due to broken-down placements.

Here are some signs that may indicate a child is struggling with attachment.

Parenting children with attachment issues rooted in a history of trauma can be a formidable task. To put it simply—it’s not easy to be a foster parent.

But the work is so critical. The bonds foster parents build with kids help them heal and serve as the foundation for healthy connections in adulthood.

We want to guide you on the path to parenting kids with trauma history. So, here are a few tips to help build trust and influence children’s behavior.

Tips on Parenting Kids with a History of Trauma

Meet Needs

Your #1 goal is to find out your foster child’s needs and meet them. And the best way to find out is to ask. When doing so, be direct, using exact language. For example, “What’s going on?” “What are your needs?” “How can I support you?”

Say “Yes”

Kids in foster care have little power over their lives. So, often that manifests in a desire for control.

You can go miles when it comes to building trust with children by focusing on dishing out “yes” more than “no.” The optimal ratio is 7:1, saying “yes” 7 times for every “no.”

Make Eye Contact

Our eyes speak louder than words.

Nonverbal cues are critical components of communication, especially for kids with trauma history. As often as possible, get on your foster child’s eye level when speaking to them.

Mirror Behavior

Be a mirror. Secure attachment is characterized by a healthy rhythm between children and their caregiver’s behavior. For instance, if a baby coos, their mother will coo back, or when a toddler laughs, their father laughs too.

Congruent behaviors build trust and attachment.

Want More?

A Timeline of Impact: Exploring YBGR History

March 20, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

How much do you know about the history of Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR)? The timeline above brings it to life.

Tucked behind the dining hall, the Ranch library holds more than just books—it showcases a powerful visual display of our history. This timeline reflects decades of impact, growth, and transformation.

In the photograph above, Jake Mullins, HR Recruiter, stands beside this timeline, underscoring its significance. More than just a collection of dates, it tells the story of the mission that has guided us for over 67 years. Through challenges, growth, and change, our commitment to youth and families has remained steadfast.

More Than a Timeline—A Legacy of Caring That Stands the Test of Time

Much has changed over the years, but our historic slogan continues to ring true. Still painted on the back of the sign above the entryway to campus, it serves as a lasting reminder: “It sure makes a difference to know someone cares.”

We are grateful for the many caring individuals across YBGR who continue to carry our mission forward: “Caring people, preparing youth for life.”

Your work makes a lasting impact—just like the history we continue to write every day.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

43 Years of Caring: Laurie Moore’s Legacy at YBGR

March 13, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

Recognize this little lady? It’s Laurie Moore, Program Manager at the Ranch! Last month, Laurie celebrated an incredible 43 years at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR).

When asked for a photo, Laurie opted for a baby picture over a recent one—so we’re rolling with it! But don’t let that sweet face fool you. Laurie is tough as nails when it comes to serving kids with integrity and standing by her team. She embodies our mission: Caring people, preparing youth for life.

A Lifelong Commitment to Kids and Community

Laurie’s dedication runs deep. Over the years, she has not only invested in the lives of countless youth but also mentored teammates as they grow into caring professionals. She has watched YBGR evolve—from a small refuge in Billings to a statewide network delivering mental health care across Montana.

Thank You, Laurie!

Laurie, your commitment to our mission, your crewmates, and the kids we serve is nothing short of inspiring. Your work has shaped lives, strengthened our purpose, and left a lasting impact on countless youth.

Words can’t express our gratitude for your sacrifice, service, and loyalty over the years. We are so fortunate to have you on our team!

Stay Connected

Honoring Remarkable Women – meet YBGR’s Jasmine Hansen

March 5, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

Strength in Tradition: Youth in Wellbriety Create Medicine Wheel

February 25, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

At the heart of our work lies a deep commitment to healing—not just in mind, but in body, spirit, and community. This morning, youth in our Wellbriety program at the Ranch created a powerful symbol of their journey: a Medicine Wheel.

Wellbriety: A Culturally Rooted Path to Healing

Guided by Josie Brady, our Native American Services Coordinator and a White Bison-certified facilitator in Medicine Wheel + 12 Steps for Youth, the exercise mapped values across all four directions, tying them into the 12-step recovery process.

More than just a recovery program, Wellbriety integrates culture, spirituality, and personal growth. Each week, youth participate in smudging ceremonies, talking circles, and reflection—fostering balance, strength, and long-term sobriety.

These traditional practices reconnect them to their roots while providing a strong foundation for lasting wellness.

The Power of the Medicine Wheel in Recovery

The Medicine Wheel is a sacred symbol in many Native traditions, representing balance and the interconnectedness of life. The four directions (North, South, East, West), are often used as a guide for living a balanced life and achieving spiritual harmony.

In Wellbriety, it serves as a visual guide to healing, mapping emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being across all four directions. By incorporating these teachings, youth gain a deeper understanding of their journey toward sobriety and personal growth.

Stay Connected

YBGR’s Supported Employment Program Helps Youth Thrive

February 20, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

YBGR Supported Employment Program Helps Youth Thrive

At Yellowstone Boys & Girls Ranch (YBGR), preparing youth for life means more than academics—it’s about building the skills, confidence, and opportunities young people need to excel in the real world. That’s exactly what Elizabeth Campoy, Supported Employment Supervisor, and Erica Kern, Supported Employment Specialist, are passionate about.

Building Skills That Last a Lifetime

Every day, Elizabeth, Erica, and their team make a difference by helping youth gain the tools they need to thrive—not just in the workforce but in life. Their work goes beyond job placement. It’s about building confidence, independence, and resilience.

Through the Supported Employment Program, they provide:

Career coaching to help explore strengths and interests
Resume writing guidance that gives a competitive edge
Interview preparation to boost confidence
On-site job support to help youth succeed long-term

It’s all about making sure youth are prepared—not just for their first job, but for everything life throws their way.

Partnering with the Community

A big part of the program’s success comes from strong partnerships with local employers in Yellowstone County. These relationships open doors, connecting youth with meaningful job opportunities that fit their interests and strengths.

By working closely with businesses, Elizabeth and Erica make sure youth aren’t just placed in jobs—they’re set up to succeed in them.

The Impact Speaks for Itself

The results say it all:

337 youth served through the Supported Employment Program
Over 500 jobs filled in Yellowstone County

The numbers above, tallied in December 2024, represent lives changed, futures brightened, and young people stepping confidently into adulthood.

It’s About More Than Jobs

What sets YBGR’s Supported Employment Program apart is the focus on long-term success.

It’s about:

Building confidence so youth believe in themselves
Teaching resilience so they can overcome challenges
Providing life skills that serve them well into the future

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the job—it’s about preparing youth to take on the world.

Thank You to the Team Making It Happen

A huge thank you to Elizabeth Campoy, Erica Kern, and the entire Supported Employment team for living out our mission of “Caring people, preparing youth for life.”

Because of your dedication, hundreds of young people are stepping into the future with the tools and confidence they need to build successful, meaningful lives—and that’s something worth celebrating.

Stay Connected

Therapy Dogs Help Kids Heal at the Ranch

February 18, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

Have you met the therapy dogs who are making a difference daily at the Ranch? Meet Luca, Elvis, Cooper, and Emmy Lou!

These four aren’t just beloved companions—they’re four-legged therapists helping youth heal, build trust, and regulate emotions in Billings. Their presence provides comfort, connection, and stability for kids who need it most.

Meet Our Canine Team and Their People

Therapy dogs do more than bring smiles—they play a key role in supporting the emotional well-being of the youth in our care.

Dr. Taylor Clark, Occupational Therapist, with her therapy pup, Luca

Mackenzie Warren, Equestrian Specialist, with her therapy pup, Elvis.

Cooper and Emmy Lou with Lisa Frazier, retired Director of Recreational Services

For many kids, therapy dogs offer something people sometimes can’t—a calming, judgment-free presence that makes it easier to open up, build trust, and regulate emotions.

Reducing stress and anxiety

Just being near a therapy dog has been shown to lower stress and help kids feel more at ease.

Building trust and social connections

Many of the youth we serve have experienced trauma. Therapy dogs create a safe space to rebuild trust and connection.

Supporting emotional regulation

Their presence can help kids self-soothe and navigate emotions.

Providing unconditional support

Therapy dogs offer consistent, reliable companionship, giving kids a sense of security and belonging.

A Lasting Impact

We see the impact of our four-legged therapists firsthand every day out at the Ranch. Their support goes beyond the moment—helping kids feel safe, seen, and supported as they navigate their healing journey.

We want to thank Lisa, Mackenzie, Taylor, and our incredible therapy dogs—Luca, Elvis, Cooper, and Emmy Lou. The work you do matters, and the difference you make is lasting.

Need Support?

Check out our Programs tab above to learn more about the therapeutic care we deliver daily at the Ranch and across Montana. Then, contact us online to make a referral.

Stay Connected

Investing in People — YBGR Staff Take Part in CISM Training

February 16, 2025NewsKatie Gerten

Investing in the caring people who invest in our kids matters. Over the weekend, YBGR staff from across Montana participated in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) training, gaining tools to help teammates process secondary trauma after delivering crisis care to youth.

CISM Training Equips Staff to Support Each Other

At YBGR, we know that a strong team means stronger support for youth. Our work with kids is meaningful and comes with heavy moments, too. No one should carry that weight alone.

CISM training equips staff with the tools to recognize signs of stress and process crisis events with others—so they can continue providing the care kids depend on.

Strengthening Our Team for the Work Ahead

This training is one of the many ways we’re building a culture of care and resilience—ensuring our team has the support needed to keep showing up for Montana’s youth.

Join Our Community of Caring People, Preparing Youth for Life

Looking for a job where you can make an impact while being part of a strong, supportive community? Visit our Careers page today to learn more about our open positions.