Gateway Philosophy

An Intentional Approach

At Gateway, every experience – their therapy, their academic experience, the rhythm of their day and the interactions they have with teachers, mentors, and peers – is designed to support our youth.

Every service we provide is tailored to meet each youth's individual needs. And therapeutic opportunities for healthy development, healing and learning are intentionally woven throughout every moment of the day. During fitness and yoga for example, a youth may discover the mind-body connection and how "tuning in" fosters a greater sense of well being. In the classroom, a youth might discover newfound confidence as they solve a challenge for the first time. Finding the next handhold in the climbing gym helps them extend that confidence to another context. With purpose and intent, each of our five integrated programs test and reinforce clinical gains at every turn, allowing them to grow emotionally, intellectually, and physically.

From the Beginning

When the four founders and owners started Gateway in 2002, it was with one singular intention: to focus on the unique needs of the individual adolescents while providing the most state-of-the-art, evidence-based, treatment and academic program in the industry. Gateway's owners remain committed to this intention by being actively involved in day-to-day operations and ongoing incorporation of current neuroscientific, clinical and academic research. 

Owner Operated

Gateway's four owners play an essential role in leadership, clinical direction, program operations and development, management, and training. 

Karen Flynn, JD  
C.E.O. and Co-Owner

Karen's passion for working with youth began in 1995 when she became an attorney advocate for abused, neglected and dependent children. At Gateway, Karen's extensive knowledge and experience in child welfare helps direct, guide, and create the optimal environment for struggling youth and their families.

Julie Barbero, LCSW 
Clinical Director and Co-Owner

For Julie, an adolescent and family therapist since 1993, creating emotional security is the first essential step in helping a youth overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, and the difficult obstacles in life. In addition, the intentional use of relational interactions are key. 

M. Michelle Gourley, MFT, LCSW, JD
Director of Clinical INTEGRATION and Co-Owner

Michelle has been working with youth and their families since 1982. With a background in clinical social work, marriage and family therapy, and family/juvenile law, Michelle is a well-regarded presenter at state and national conferences training on her passion for the neuroscience and adolescent development.

Melissa Hickman, LCSW
MARKETING Director and Co-Owner

As a therapist for at-risk youth since 1991, Melissa knows there no single therapeutic approach that addresses all issues. As our Marketing Director, she carefully evaluates each teen, and plays at active role in determining their treatment.