Hope For Youth

Youth ACT

Program Overview: Youth Assertive Community Treatment (ACT)

Youth Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) is a program licensed by the New York State Office of Mental Health and designed to address the significant needs of children ages 10 to 21 who are at risk of entering—or returning home from—high-intensity services such as inpatient or residential treatment. Using a multi-disciplinary team approach, Youth ACT provides intensive, community-based support to help children with serious psychiatric needs remain safely in their homes whenever possible.

Youth who are at risk of institutional levels of care often require highly coordinated, intensive interventions. The ACT team works closely with each child and family to meet complex needs, avoid higher levels of care, and support successful transitions back to the community.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Youth ACT, a child must meet all of the following:

  • Be at least 10 years old at the time of enrollment and up to age 21.
  • Have a determination of Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED).
  • Demonstrate continuous high service needs that are not being met through traditional services.
  • Reside in Suffolk County.

Youth ACT Team Members

Youth ACT is delivered by a comprehensive, highly trained, multi-disciplinary team that includes:

  • Licensed Therapists
  • Psychiatrist
  • Clinical Support Specialist
  • Family Peer Advocate
  • Youth Peer Advocate
  • Team Leader
  • Administrative Support

Services We Provide

Youth enrolled in ACT receive individualized, community-based support tailored to their needs. Services include:

  • Individual Therapy
  • Clinical Support Services
  • Skill Building
  • Medication Management
  • Family Peer Advocacy
  • Youth/Peer Advocacy
  • Collateral Support & Coordination
  • Community Outreach
  • Empowerment and Support for Families

How to Make a Referral

All referrals for the Suffolk Youth ACT program must be made through CSPOA:

📞 (631) 853-8513
🌐 https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Health-Services/Mental-Hygiene#SPOA

Once approved, the Youth ACT team completes a comprehensive assessment to identify the strengths and needs of the child and family. Every youth receives an individualized treatment plan focused on personal goals and the skills needed to remain successful in their home and community.