The behavior modification adolescent residential treatment program is based on accountability, responsibility, and respect. Students at Pine Ridge Academy are expected to treat staff and peers with respect and in return they can expect to be treated with respect. Staff members are trained to apply consequences and provide feedback for students in a respectful manner without demeaning or belittling the adolescent.

Students at Pine Ridge Academy participate in a level system. Students are rewarded with points given for proper school performance, appropriate social interactions, a good attitude, and compliance with rules. The immediate feedback helps to reinforce appropriate behaviors and helps the students correct poor behaviors. When sufficient points are earned, students progress in the level system and receive extra privileges. The students levels determine the number of activities away from the center the students can participate in, number of passes with parents, make up privileges, etc. One of the purposes of the level system is to help students take responsibility for inappropriate behaviors.