A girl doing a math problem on a whiteboard.

Arch Bridge School Day Program

A Therapeutic Approach to Academic Success At Arch Bridge School, we provide a unique educational environment specifically designed for students in grades 7-12 who need emotional support alongside academic excellence. Our day program offers the perfect balance of college preparatory academics and therapeutic care in a warm, accepting environment.

Referrals and Questions
Day Students: (203) 266-8029
Residential Students: (203) 266-8002

Who We Serve

Our day program welcomes students of all gender identities who face academic challenges due to emotional issues. We specialize in supporting students with:

  • Anxiety disorders and depression
  • ADHD and executive functioning challenges
  • Learning differences that benefit from individualized approaches
  • Emotional disabilities requiring therapeutic support
  • Students transitioning from traditional private schools who require additional mental health support

Our program is ideal for students who internalize their struggles rather than acting out behaviorally. We create a safe, structured environment where students can focus on both academic growth and emotional well-being. Our goal is to support students in identifying their needs and developing independent skills to help regulate their own emotional challenges. Our students are evaluated annually with the team to determine either their readiness to return to their previous communities or continue their growth in our program.

Our Therapeutic Approach

Beyond Behavioral Modification

Arch Bridge School is focused on a relational model rather than a behavioral approach. We focus on:

  • Talk therapy and relationship-building
  • Developing self-awareness and emotional regulation
  • Small class settings with frequent teacher check-ins
  • Immediate access to clinicians throughout the school day
  • Four specialized mental health counseling groups per week
  • Individual counseling sessions once a week with a dedicated School Clinician
  • Regular communication home and with outside providers

Our fundamental approach is rooted in Wellspring’s Relational Restorative Model, which develops a personal relationship with each student within a clearly defined structure of expectations.


Academic Excellence with Support

College Preparatory Curriculum

Our academic program is designed to maintain high educational standards while providing the support students need to succeed:

  • Content-certified teachers in all subject areas
  • Special education teachers providing classroom support and consultation
  • Individualized learning plans tailored to each student’s needs
  • College preparatory academics in English, Math, Science, and Social Studies
  • Additional classes including Art, Animal Program, Physical Education, and Adventure Recreation
  • New vocational counseling program for students exploring career based post-secondary pathways

The entire staff of Wellspring and Arch Bridge School are angels in human form. They don't give up and are relentless and tireless in thinking out of the box and consistently figuring out alternate ways to reach a child when other ways don't work.

— Parent of Arch Bridge School Student


The Wellspring Foundation is accredited by The Joint Commission, licensed by the State of Connecticut, and approved by the states of New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts.

Expert Staff

Our exceptional team includes:

  • Content-certified teachers with expertise in their academic fields
  • Certified special education professionals
  • Licensed School Clinicians available throughout the school day and leading therapeutic groups

Our staff meets several times weekly to review student progress and ensure a coordinated approach to each student’s unique needs.

Admissions & Enrollment Options

Flexible Enrollment Pathways

Arch Bridge School accepts students through multiple enrollment pathways:

  • Private pay enrollment directly from families
  • District-referred placements
  • Rolling admissions throughout the year 
  • Summer school program beginning July 1st

We welcome inquiries from families seeking an alternative school experience or transitioning from private schools that need more social emotional support in their educational environment.

100%

High school graduation rate over the past ten years.

100%

of Families surveyed in 2021 would recommend Wellspring’s Arch Bridge School to others.

Take the Next Step

Schedule a campus visit to see how Arch Bridge School can support your child’s academic and emotional growth. Our admissions team is ready to discuss your specific situation and how our day program might be the right fit.

Contact Us Today: