RCG Behavioral Health, formally known as Recognizing Children’s Gifts Behavioral Health Network, was established in 2012 in Richmond, Virginia by founder Sherman Adkins. The organization was created to meet the increasing demand for reliable, specialized services for children with autism throughout the Central Virginia region.

The company continues to operate from its Richmond headquarters and delivers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy using evidence-based methods. Its programs include both center-based and in-home support, helping children strengthen behavioral, social, and developmental skills.

Around 2023, RCG shifted from a single-location provider to a franchise-driven growth model. This expansion opened the door for entrepreneurs to join the system and benefit from a defined operational framework, extensive training, and continuous guidance tailored to the behavioral health field.

What sets RCG Behavioral Health apart is its focus on serving children with autism and developmental challenges through a clinically informed yet family-centered approach. This blend of expertise and personalization positions the brand as a distinctive option within the behavioral health services market.

Training

RCG Behavioral Health Network provides a comprehensive training program to prepare franchisees for launching and operating their business effectively. The franchisor outlines several key training components to support franchisees pre-opening and during the launch phase. The programs are as follows:

1. Initial Training Program – Franchisees must complete a core training session provided by the franchisor. The program content and completion criteria are determined at the franchisor’s sole discretion.
2. On-Site Opening Support – The franchisor provides a trainer who will be present at the franchisee's location for 2 to 5 days during the business opening. This support includes supervision, training reinforcement, and assistance with operational setup.
3. Operations Manual and Training Aids – Franchisees receive access to the Operations Manual and other designated manuals and training resources. These materials are periodically updated to reflect changes in operational standards and procedures.
4. Employee Training Standards – The franchisor provides guidelines and standards for training employees. However, the franchisee is responsible for hiring and directly training their staff based on these provided standards.
5. Guidance on Products and Pricing – Although not part of hands-on training, the franchisor offers guidance regarding pricing and the range of services and products to be offered, which complements operational training.

Territory Protection

RCG Behavioral Health Network offers territory protection to its franchisees by granting an exclusive territory, defined in the Franchise Agreement, prior to signing. This territory generally includes a population of approximately 100,000 and may be specified by radius, zip codes, jurisdiction boundaries, or a marked map.

Within this designated territory, the franchisor agrees not to operate or license another RCG Behavioral Health Network franchise, as long as the franchisee remains in compliance.

However, the exclusivity does not prevent RCG Behavioral Health Network or its affiliates from operating other businesses in the territory or from selling products and services through alternative distribution channels like the internet, catalog sales, or third-party outlets. Franchisees do not receive compensation for any sales made through these channels within their territory.