Children & Youth
Community Based Services
Support for children and youth as they grow, learn, and heal.
Community Based Services (CBS)
When a child or teen is struggling with big emotions, behaviors, or challenges at school or home, it can impact the whole family. Our Community Based Services (CBS) program partners with children, teens, and caregivers to build skills, strengthen relationships, and create a strong support network—so families feel more confident, connected, and supported.
CBS serves children and teens ages 4–18 who meet the criteria for Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED) and provides support where it matters most—at home, at school, and in the community.
What is Community Based Services?
Community Based Services are designed to meet kids and families where they are—both literally and emotionally.
CBS focuses on:
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Building social and emotional skills
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Supporting positive behavior at home and school
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Strengthening family relationships
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Creating a team of support around each child
Our goal is to help kids feel more confident, capable, and in control—while helping caregivers feel supported and empowered
Psychosocial Groups
Fun, activity-based groups that help kids learn and practice important life skills, including:
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Getting along with others
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Managing emotions
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Building self-esteem
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Problem-solving and teamwork
These groups support success at home, school, and with peers.
Art & Play
(Grades 1-3)
A fun, structured group where children build social skills through creative art projects and interactive play. Participants practice following directions, taking turns, listening, and working cooperatively — all while gaining confidence and having fun.
Coping with Stress (Grades 4-6)
A supportive group where students learn healthy coping strategies and practical skills to manage stress. Through guided activities and discussion, participants build emotional awareness, resilience, and confidence in handling everyday challenges.
Tabletop Collaborative Games (Middle & High School)
A dynamic group where students connect through tabletop and trading card games, strategy activities, and collaborative challenges. Designed to strengthen communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and positive social interaction — all in a fun, engaging environment.
Independent Living (15+)
A skills-based group designed to help teens build confidence for adulthood. Participants learn practical life skills including healthy relationships, communication, job readiness, money management, household responsibilities, hygiene, nutrition, and basic cooking — empowering them to live more independently and successfully.
Additional groups are offered periodically throughout the year based on need and staffing availability. These may include respite groups during summer and school breaks as well as Pre-K groups designed to support younger children in building early social and emotional skills.
Individual respite services may also be available. Families are encouraged to speak with their case manager or Center contact to determine if respite services would be a good fit for their student and to learn about upcoming group opportunities.
Mental Health Intervention Team
(MHIT)
Mental Health Intervention Team (MHIT)
The Mental Health Intervention Team (MHIT) is a state-supported program that brings mental health services directly into schools, helping students get the care they need where they are, when they need it. It reduces barriers families often face in accessing therapy and support by embedding mental health professionals and trained school liaisons right in the school day.
What MHIT Does
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Provides on-site mental health support: Licensed clinicians work in schools to support students’ emotional and behavioral needs without pulling them out of class.
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Connects students to care: School-based liaisons identify students who may benefit from additional supports and link them to community mental health services.
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Supports academic success: By addressing mental health challenges at school, MHIT helps improve attendance, behavior, and overall academic engagement.
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Customizes care locally: Each participating school district tailors MHIT services to meet the unique needs of their students, families, and community.
MHIT makes it easier for families to access mental health care without disrupting school routines and fosters a supportive environment that helps students thrive.
👉 Learn more about MHIT and how it works: visit the official MHIT site.
Program FAQ's
What is MHIT?
MHIT (Mental Health Intervention Team) is a school-based program that provides mental health support to students during the school day, in partnership with local mental health providers.
Does MHIT replace therapy?
MHIT can provide early intervention and short-term support at school. Some students may also be connected to ongoing services, such as counseling or Community Based Services (CBS), when needed.
Who can receive MHIT services?
Students who are experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges that affect their learning, relationships, or wellbeing may be referred for MHIT support.
Will my child miss class time?
MHIT services are designed to support students while keeping them engaged in school as much as possible.
How does a student get connected?
Referrals typically come through the school, in collaboration with families and community mental health partners.
Is this confidential?
Yes. Student privacy and confidentiality are respected, and services follow all applicable school and healthcare guidelines.
Our Promise
We believe every child has the ability to learn, grow, and thrive—with the right supports in place. Whether your child is working on friendships, managing emotions, or gaining independence, CBS is here to walk beside your family every step of the way.
“Every child deserves to feel supported and understood. We’re here to help kids and teens build confidence, resilience, and hope for the future.”— Billie Downum, CBS Director
How to get started with our Community Based Services.
Getting connected is simple:
1. Call The Center to get registered.
2. Together, we’ll determine the best services for your child.
3. You’ll be connected to a team who truly cares.
Because Big Feelings Can’t Always Wait
What to do if a child is in crisis.
Guidance for Schools
Supporting students during a mental health crisis can be challenging. These strategies can help before, during, and after a crisis.
Helpful Approaches:
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Stay calm and maintain a supportive presence
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Use clear, simple language
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Avoid disciplinary responses during a crisis
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Provide a quiet, safe space
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Do not leave a student alone if there are safety concerns
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Communicate with administration and crisis contacts
After a crisis, continued support, routine, and follow-up are key.
Guidance for Parents
Seeing your child or loved one in crisis can be frightening. You don’t have to have all the answers.
What Helps:
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Stay present and calm—even if you’re worried
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Listen more than you speak
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Validate emotions without minimizing them
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Avoid ultimatums or threats
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Encourage help and connection
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Take care of yourself, too
Reaching out for support is a sign of strength—for you and your family.