What is Foundations
Foundations is a flexible wraparound program, which offers a variety of services to support children and teens with emotional and behavioral difficulties. The goal is to help these children and teens function safely and successfully at home. Core components of the program are family therapy and parent/guardian support. Some services are also available to siblings on a case-by-case basis.
Foundations is a strength-based, community-based, culturally sensitive program. Therapeutic supports are focused on skill building so that family members can more effectively cope with life's challenges..
How Are Services Provided
Team Builder
Foundations services are coordinated by a Team Builder, The Team Builder works closely with each family and the child's DMH case manager to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Team Builders also provide family therapy services. Family work is conducted both in the office and in the home. Initial meetings generally take place in the office as the Team Builder, other staff, and the family members get to know one another.
In addition to family therapy, other services that may be provided include:
- Life Coaching
- Group Therapy
- Socialization Group
- Vacation Activities
- Saturday Respite Group
- Overnight Respite
- Parent Support
Individual therapy and medication management are not formally part of Foundations, however if appropriate and depending on availability, these services can be provided within the Foundation Team.
Parent Coordinator
The Foundations Parent Coordinator is a parent who has experience negotiating the child mental health system. She is knowledgeable about local resources, advocacy, and negotiating the education system. She provides practical advice on parenting skills, understanding an individual education plan, health insurance and guardianship issues. The Parent Coordinator and the Team Builder work closely together to ensure consistency in the information provided to parents and guardians.
Life Coaches
Each child or teen will meet weekly with his or her own Life Coach. Life Coaches provide one to one support and mentoring while exploring each young person's recreational interests. Life Coaches also organize school vacation activities, help with transportation, supervise overnight respite and co-lead various groups.
The Client's Commitment
Family work can be hard. The more available family members are to participate in meetings and activities the more likely the child will be successful. Foundation's staff tries to accommodate clients' scheduling needs; however flexibility is most helpful.
Services typically last 12-18 months. Goals are established with each family when they enter the program. These are the benchmarks by which progress is assessed. Every three months all members of the young person's support team, including family members, Foundation's staff, school personnel, and the DMH case manager are invited to discuss the services, and dreview goals and progress.
Families and staff understand that not all concerns can be addressed and resolved by Foundations services. Foundations will be one component of a child's emotional, behavioral, social and educational supports.
Family Nights
Family nights are an opportunity to meet other families and have fun! These generally occur once a month and are funded by the program. Activities have included a Halloween party, family bowling, indoor rock climbing and barbeques.
