Taylor Kiesel, a 20-year-old, has endured sleepless nights filled with fear for three years. She finds solace among reptiles, including Russian tortoises, geckos, and snakes, collected since childhood. By starting an animal rescue near Seattle, she channels her emotions into a purposeful activity. This achievement comes despite disappointing experiences with mental health treatment.
Taylor’s struggles are rooted in her early years. Her father left when she was five. Diagnosed with autism in first grade, she expressed thoughts of self-harm by age six. Her mother, Rachelle, recalls a chilling moment when Taylor wondered about jumping from a moving car.
After ineffective therapies and several hospitalizations, Rachelle was advised to place Taylor at Change Academy Lake of the Ozarks (CALO) in Missouri. She researched extensively before agreeing, aiming to ensure Taylor’s safety. However, upon arrival, Taylor immediately sensed something amiss. She noted how the staff pitted the kids against each other and described an abnormal environment.
Allegations and Lawsuits
Taylor and Rachelle, along with 15 other families, have sued CALO, alleging emotional distress, neglect, and battery. CALO denies these allegations, stating they are baseless. CBS News interviews with many who interacted with CALO revealed reports of violence and chaos. Police records show over 400 calls to the sheriff’s office tied to CALO’s location.
Caleb Cunningham, former prosecutor in the area, stated, “It’s worse than I thought it was.” He emphasized the recurring issues in residential treatment centers nationwide.
According to Missouri’s Department of Social Services, there have been findings of abuse involving CALO. The state’s attorney general confirmed there’s no active investigation of CALO.
Funding and Regulation Challenges
Taylor’s placement at CALO was partly funded by her Washington state school district under her Individualized Education Program (IEP), following federal law provisions. Despite repeated incidents, CALO stayed on Washington’s approved list due to prior responsiveness to feedback.
Oversight for such programs varies by state, with no federal standards. A 2024 Senate investigation revealed subpar care in some programs receiving substantial federal funds. Though CALO was not included, concerns remain about industry oversight. The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act, passed in 2024, prompted a study on such programs by the Department of Health and Human Services, anticipated by 2027.
Diverse Family Experiences
Not every family’s story mirrors Taylor’s experience. Luca, another program participant, reflects positively on his therapeutic journey despite substantial costs. His mother Martha noted the financial strain, with expenses nearing $500,000 over two years, only a third reimbursed by insurance and district funds.
Both families seek improved oversight and standards for residential treatment programs. Their suggested measures include nationwide databases, standardized requirements, a federal child rights bill, and prolonged retention of security footage.
Taylor, concentrating on her reptile rescue, channels her emotional energy into caring for “the unloved.” She remains committed to transforming her pain into purposeful action.
For immediate assistance, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available at 988. Additional resources include:
- The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs
- Independent Educational Consultants Association
- The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Youth Law Center
- The National Disability Rights Network
Questions to consider before enrolling in residential programs can be found here, offered by field experts.
CALO’s Official Statement: CALO emphasizes its commitment to rigorous accountability and a mission to help families struggling with trauma. They maintain external oversight and adhere to state requirements, including thorough staff training and background checks. When allegations arise, they promptly engage with law enforcement and oversight bodies.