Pathfinders

PURPOSE: Psycho-Social Treatment after-school and summer groups are research-based treatment programs designed specifically to instill attitudes and behaviors in young people with serious emotional disorders that will allow them to find their path to successful functioning within their primary social environments: family, school and peer groups.

PROCEDURE: In intensive after-school and summer groups Pathfinders are taught attitudes and behaviors that have been identified by parents, teachers and behavioral specialists as necessary for successful functioning in a young person’s critical social environments; family, school and peer groups. Positive attitudes and behaviors are instilled using learning theory, cognitive behavioral modification techniques, contingency management, and positive reinforcements in social situations that are similar to those found on their path to adulthood. Research and experience indicates that attitudes and behaviors learned and intensely reinforced for a significant amount of time in Family Life Center’s Psycho-Social Treatment Groups transfers to successful social skills in other important environments.

ACCESS/REFERRAL: Pathfinders is a part of an intensive treatment regimen for seriously emotionally disordered children and adolescents with the cognitive ability to benefit from a fast-paced, learning intensive behavior management program. Individuals are referred to the program by therapists following an assessment and diagnostic work-up, stabilization and the development of a case management relationship. The Coordinator of Community Based Children’s Services accepts the referral based on admission criteria and availability of a slot within the appropriate group. The group facilitator will contact parents/guardians to provide program orientation and admission requirements. Once enrolled the new Pathfinder will attend group after school Monday through Thursday and/or all day in the summer program. Transportation will be provided if needed. Parents and guardians are required to continue their child’s participation in therapy and case management and to assist in the development of an initial treatment plan and quarterly updates.

FEES: Psycho-Social Treatment Groups are reimbursed by Medicaid. Otherwise, fees are adjustable based on a sliding fee scale according to income and number of dependents living in the home.

CONTACT PERSON: Child or Adolescent’s Primary Therapist