PINS Diversion Program
A child under the age of 18 who does not attend school, or behaves in a way that is dangerous or out of control, or often disobeys his or her parents, guardians or other authorities, may be found to be a Person In Need of Supervision or “PINS”. The Nassau County PINS (Person In Need of Supervision) Diversion program is designed to divert youth who are at risk, from PINS petitions that require court involvement. PINS Diversion services families with children up to the age of 18 in Nassau County.
Families that apply for diversion services have issues including but not limited to school truancy, gang involvement, runaway behaviors, mental health and substance abuse issues.
The PINS diversion program provides short term intensive in-home, family-centered interventions with an overarching goal that will prevent out of home placements, teach problem solving skills to the families, and linkage to a community-based system of care.
A unique component to the diversion program is the incorporation of Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT). MDFT is an evidence based program designed to meet the needs of youth struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues.
Hope for youth integrates Restorative Practices in the diversion program in which Restorative Circles are used as mediation to address issues occurring with the youth.
For more information about New York State Laws or the New York State Court System click here.