What did the campfire say to the flashlight? “You’re really good at lightening up the mood—and here at Roundup River Ranch, that’s just what we aim to do!”
Welcome to the behavioral health special edition of “Medical Minute,” where we’re thrilled to share some heartwarming news that’s sure to brighten your day!
Beyond Barriers: Roundup River Ranch Opens Doors for Behavioral Health
Each year, countless children face the often invisible challenges of behavioral health conditions—from anxiety and depression to PTSD. These conditions can transform every aspect of a child’s life, impacting their schooling, friendships, and family interactions.
While March 2nd shines a light on World Teen Mental Wellness Day, the journey to support and uplift children with behavioral health needs continues every day. At Roundup River Ranch, we’ve long celebrated the spirit of children battling chronic physical illnesses by offering them a magical camp experience where joy and camaraderie reign supreme. Now, we’re extending this life-changing opportunity to include young people navigating behavioral health challenges as a qualifying diagnosis.
Recognizing the Need for Behavioral Health Support
In our own backyard of Eagle and Summit County, the statistics are more than just numbers—they’re a call to action. With nearly 44% of local children reporting unmanageable stress and 12% contemplating suicide, the urgency for support is clear. Despite tremendous local efforts, the hurdles of stigma, financial constraints, and limited care access persist.
Launching New Horizons: Behavioral Health & Wellness Camp
Excitingly, in 2025, we’re launching our inaugural Behavioral Health & Wellness Camp in collaboration with Vail Health Behavioral Health. This initiative will feature:
- A dedicated 3-night camp session specifically tailored for local children facing significant behavioral health challenges.
- Integration of these behavioral health campers into our traditional camp sessions, ensuring a rich, inclusive experience.
- Specialized training for our wonderful counselors and volunteers, equipping them to provide the best support for behavioral health needs.
Stories of Strength and Transformation
Every camper brings a unique story to the fire chat, and for those confronting behavioral health issues, camp promises a pivotal experience. It’s not about changing who they are; it’s about empowering them to embrace their full selves—joyfully, boldly, and supported by a community that believes in their potential.
So, let’s gather around the for a fireside chat, share stories, and support each other. At Roundup River Ranch, every child has a place to shine. A place where you belong!
Meet the Expert: Dr. Paige Baker-Braxton
I’m a clinical psychologist here in the Vail Valley. I have a passion for bridging the gap between science, human connection, and behavioral health advocacy. My early training focused on trauma, and I developed a specialization for working with queer and trans folks. In my early career I balanced a private practice working with LGBTQ patients with trauma histories and in the nonprofit sector building behavioral and social service programs. Then about three years ago my family moved to the Vail Valley. Currently, I am the Director of Outpatient Behavioral Health at Vail Health and have a board seat on Mountain Pride, our LGBTQ non-profit. I also sit on the Medical Advisory Committee at Roundup River Ranch where I have spearheaded the behavioral health initiative.
Each step of my career has been about finding ways to make behavioral health support more accessible and destigmatized. Really at the center of my work, is the combination of evidence based practice with a deep understanding of the individual. I work to integrate patient-center programming with innovative treatments centered around this idea that community is at the core of health.
