Mendota Juvenile Treatment Center

The Mendota Juvenile Treatment Center is a specialized residential facility located on the grounds of the Mendota Mental Health Institute near Madison. The center accommodates around 29 young people in separate living areas where they receive therapy and education in a structured setting.

The facility was established in 1995 when Wisconsin lawmakers sought specialized treatment options in response to rising violent crimes involving youth. It was created as an alternative to traditional youth incarceration, focusing instead on mental health care and recovery.

The facility replaces traditional prison guards with psychologists to create an environment focused on mental health treatment and behavioral modification.

The facility operates with a behavioral goal system where residents work toward specific milestones in their recovery process. Visitors should expect a structured environment where routines and consistency are central to how the program works.

The facility replaces traditional security staff with psychologists and therapists who serve as the primary adults in residents' lives. This approach creates a therapeutic environment where trust and healing become the foundation of daily interactions.

GPS coordinates: 43.13203,-89.40258

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:02