Service and Program Addtional Information

Program Requirements

This program is designed for adults 55 years of age and older who meet income eligibility guidelines and are interested in serving their community. Participants must have an annual household income of less than $30,120 for a one-person household or less than $40,880 for a two-person household. The program requires a minimum commitment of five hours per week, with flexible scheduling available Monday through Friday.

Key requirements include:

• Must be 55 years of age or older
• Meet income eligibility guidelines
• Commit to serving at least 5 hours per week
• No educational requirements are necessary
• Have a positive attitude and a willingness to make a difference through service and a smile

The program offers a flexible and rewarding opportunity for older adults to stay active, support their communities, and make meaningful connections with others.

Program Benefits

Participants in this program receive a variety of benefits that support both their service experience and overall well-being. In addition to making a positive impact in the community, participants receive financial, social, and practical support.

Benefits include:

• A tax-free hourly stipend
• Mileage reimbursement for eligible travel
• Transportation assistance when needed
• Opportunities for social engagement and connection with other participants
• One free meal each day at the service site
• Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), including vacation and sick leave
• Recognition events that celebrate participant contributions and achievements

These benefits help make volunteering both rewarding and accessible while providing meaningful opportunities to stay active, engaged, and connected to the community.

Become a Foster Grandparent Volunteer

Foster Grandparents tutor and mentor children up to the age of 21 in local schools and day-care centers. Foster Grandparents serve as a positive role model, a listening ear, build self-esteem through encouragement and praise, and provide unconditional support and care.

The program provides a meaningful opportunity for older adults to earn supplemental income while serving their community. Participants receive a tax-free stipend that does not affect eligibility for Social Security (SS), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), food assistance, housing assistance, or other income-based benefits. It is a rewarding way to make a lasting difference in the lives of children while remaining active, engaged, and connected to the community.

Become a part of AmeriCorps Seniors

Become a part of AmeriCorps Seniors; a network of national service programs that provide older Americans the opportunity to share their life experiences and make a difference in their local communities.  

Community Support Program

This therapeutic support program provides trained staff members to work individually with child and adolescent consumers on skill development out in the community according to the consumer’s treatment needs. According to age and development, activities are designed to give consumers a mentor to develop needed social and coping skills to be successful, while having fun along the way.

Locations

The following locations are served:

• Mason County
• Fleming County
• Lewis County
• Bracken County
• Robertson

Age Requirements

 The Community Peer Support Program is for all ages.

Activities

Activities may include the following:

• Pottery classes
• Painting classes
• Volunteering at the local animal shelter
• Quilting classes
• Building a resume
• Applying to a collect
• Filling out job applications
• Gardening
• Reading to children
• Volunteering at a local church
• YMCA & library activities
• Gymnastics

Family Peer Support Specialist

Kentucky Family Peer Support Specialist is a biological parent, adoptive parent, or relative caregiver who is raising or has raised a child with an emotional, social, behavioral, and/or substance use disability, and whose child has been a consumer of at least one state funded service for children. The Specialist will provide mentoring and support to parents/ caregivers.

The Family Liaison helps families and children with: 

• Goal Setting
• Connecting to community resources
• Self Advocacy 

The Family Specialist can meet with parents to understand their questions and concerns. Meetings take place in mutually agreed upon locations. Partnerships are developed by improving communication between parents, schools, mental health providers and other community resources.

What Does Family Peer Support Do?

Family Peer Support services help parents and caregivers navigate resources, build connections, and gain the knowledge needed to effectively advocate for their children. Family Peer Support specialists provide guidance, encouragement, and practical assistance based on their understanding of family needs and community resources.

Family Peer Support services:

• Educate family members about available community resources and support services
• Connect parents with support groups and other families who may have similar experiences
• Provide information about Special Education, Section 504 plans, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and mental health services
• Listen to family concerns, answer questions, and offer guidance and support
• Help build a strong network of parents and caregivers within the community

By fostering connections, sharing valuable information, and offering ongoing support, Family Peer Support empowers families to become informed advocates and active partners in their child's success and well-being.

When Should You Call The Family Liaison?

The Family Liaison is available to provide guidance, information, and support to families navigating educational services and resources. Families are encouraged to reach out whenever they need assistance understanding their child's educational rights or accessing available supports.

You should contact the Family Liaison when:

• Questions arise regarding Special Education services, processes, or eligibility
• You need information, guidance, or resources related to Special Education programs and supports

The Family Liaison can help families better understand available services, connect them with appropriate resources, and provide support as they advocate for their child's educational needs.

How Can Referrals Be Made?

Referrals can be made by anyone who has concerns about a child or family's need for services and support. The referral process is designed to be simple and accessible, ensuring that individuals and families can be connected to appropriate resources as quickly as possible.

Referrals may be made by:

• Parents or guardians
• Caregivers
• Social workers
• School staff and educators
• Concerned community members
• Mental health providers and other professionals

By allowing referrals from a variety of sources, the program helps ensure that children and families receive timely access to services, support, and resources that can promote their well-being, development, and success.

What is KEIS

The Kentucky Early Intervention System (KEIS) is a voluntary, family-centered program that provides early intervention services for children from birth to age three who have developmental delays. The program focuses on supporting children within their natural environments while empowering families with the knowledge, resources, and strategies needed to promote their child's growth and development.

KEIS provides:

• Family-focused services designed for infants and toddlers with developmental delays
• Educational support and resources that help families understand their child's development and address areas of concern
• Guidance and coaching that enables parents and caregivers to actively support their child's progress
• A collaborative partnership among parents, caregivers, childcare providers, and professionals working together to meet the child's needs
• Individualized services tailored to the unique strengths, priorities, and goals of each family
• Voluntary early intervention services that promote healthy development during a child's critical early years

Through personalized support and collaboration, KEIS helps children develop important skills while strengthening families' ability to support their child's long-term success.

What KEIS is Not

KEIS is designed to be a family-centered early intervention program that focuses on helping children develop through everyday activities and relationships. Understanding what KEIS is not can help families better understand the program's unique approach and goals.

KEIS is not:

• A clinic-based or medical therapy program delivered only in a clinical setting
• A service where a provider works independently with a child while parents or caregivers are not actively involved
• A program that focuses solely on the child without considering the needs and strengths of the entire family
• A service without clearly defined goals, objectives, and measurable outcomes
• A team-driven process that makes decisions without family participation and input

Instead, KEIS emphasizes collaboration, family involvement, and individualized planning. Families play a central role in setting goals and working alongside professionals to support their child's development in everyday environments and routines.

Why Is Early Intervention Important

The first three years of a child's life are a critical period of growth and development. During this time, the brain develops rapidly, laying the foundation for future learning, communication, social skills, and overall well-being. While every child develops at their own pace, some children benefit from additional support to help them reach their full potential.

Early intervention through KEIS helps by:

• Strengthening families' ability to meet their child's developmental needs
• Supporting infants and toddlers in reaching age-appropriate developmental milestones
• Maximizing growth and learning opportunities during the critical first three years of life
• Reducing feelings of isolation, stress, and frustration that families may experience when developmental concerns arise
• Decreasing the need for special education and related services later in life, which can help lower long-term educational costs
• Encouraging children to develop the skills needed to become productive, independent, and successful individuals

By identifying and addressing developmental challenges early, KEIS provides children and families with the tools, support, and resources needed to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Who is Eligible?

A child may be eligible for KEIS services if they demonstrate developmental concerns that require early intervention support. Eligibility is determined through an evaluation process or by the presence of certain qualifying medical conditions.

A child is eligible for KEIS if they have:

• A developmental delay that is significantly greater than what is expected for children of the same age, as identified through a formal evaluation
• A diagnosed medical condition that has a high likelihood of resulting in developmental delays as the child grows and develops

By identifying eligible children early, KEIS can provide timely services and support that help promote healthy development and improve long-term outcomes for both children and their families.

Where are KEIS services provided?

KEIS services are provided in the child’s natural environment, which includes home, childcare, and community settings. Services are grounded in the belief that young children learn best from familiar people in familiar settings. 

Who Provides KEIS Services?

KEIS services are provided through an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) team, which includes the child's family, a service coordinator, and qualified KEIS providers. This team works together to develop and implement a plan based on the unique strengths, needs, and priorities of the child and family.

The IFSP team is responsible for ensuring that services are family-centered and personalized, using the child’s and family’s interests as the foundation for goal setting and support.

IFSP team members:

• Work collaboratively to support the child's learning, growth, and development
• Focus on increasing the child's participation in everyday family, community, and early childhood activities
• Contribute their individual expertise to help achieve the goals identified in the family's IFSP
• Communicate effectively, arrive on time for scheduled appointments, and notify one another when services need to be rescheduled
• Partner together to address challenges, answer questions, and identify solutions that best support the child and family

Through teamwork, communication, and family involvement, the IFSP team helps ensure that children receive coordinated, meaningful services that support development within their natural environments and daily routines.

Who Makes Referrals to KEIS?

The referral process for KEIS is simple and accessible. Anyone who has concerns about a child's development can make a referral to begin the evaluation process.

Referrals may be made by:

• Parents or guardians
• Physicians and healthcare providers
• Family members
• Caregivers
• Teachers and early childhood professionals
• Friends or other concerned individuals

To make a referral, the individual simply contacts the Point of Entry (POE) and provides the family's contact information. Once a referral is received, KEIS staff will reach out to the family to explain the program, answer questions, and discuss the next steps.

By allowing referrals from a wide range of individuals, KEIS helps ensure that children who may benefit from early intervention services are identified and connected to support as early as possible.

What is the Family's Role?

Families play a vital role in early intervention services because they know their child best and are an essential part of the development process. KEIS recognizes that meaningful progress occurs when families and providers work together to support a child's growth within everyday routines and activities.

Families are encouraged to:

• Share their interests, priorities, preferences, concerns, needs, and questions with the IFSP team
• Help establish goals that reflect what is most important to their child and family
• Actively participate in services by learning from providers and using strategies during daily activities between visits
• Collaborate with providers to support their child's ongoing development at home and in the community
• Communicate with their service coordinator about any circumstances or concerns that may affect services or family participation

By taking an active role in planning and implementing services, families help ensure that early intervention supports are meaningful, effective, and aligned with their child's and family's unique needs and goals.

What is the Cost?

Early intervention services are provided to all eligible children regardless of the family’s household income or other federal and state benefits that the family may receive.

Certain services are provided by KEIS at no cost to families. 

These services include:

• Screening
• Service coordination
• Evaluation and assessment
• Developing the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
• Implementing procedural safeguards (parent’s rights) 

All eligible families are assessed for their ability to pay for early intervention services. Families with higher incomes may have to contribute a participation fee that is calculated using the family’s total household income, household size and the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Most families do not pay a fee.  

School Based Therapy Program

Some children experience significant  emotional or behavioral difficulties in  the school. School-based services enable our  clinicians, your child’s teachers, and  other support staff to communicate directly  and effectively coordinate care. We work  closely with your child’s school to maximize  the benefits from counseling. Many families  have difficulties attending a traditional  outpatient clinic. This service enables  children to receive counseling directly in the  school they attend each day. Family  counseling is also provided and encouraged.  Parents are required to be a part of treatment  planning.  

We can help with:

• School problems 
• Conflicts with peers 
• Problems following directions
• Poor attention span
• Anxiety/school anxiety
• Irritability
• Poor frustration tolerance
• Anger management
• Depression/mood dysregulation
• Disruptive behaviors
• Childhood trauma 
• Grief and loss  

What Services do School-Based Therapists Provide?

School-based therapists offer a range of mental health and support services to help students succeed both academically and emotionally. They work as part of a multidisciplinary team that may include counselors, social workers, and physicians, collaborating closely with students, families, schools, and community partners.

Services typically include:

• Individual, family, and group counseling
• Crisis consultation and intervention
• Referrals to community resources and additional support services
• Parent support groups
• Educational presentations on topics related to child and adolescent behavior
• Ongoing collaboration with families, schools, and community organizations

Financial assistance is available through a sliding fee scale, and Medicaid along with many other insurance plans are accepted.

When should you call us about your child?

You should consider reaching out if you notice significant changes in your child's emotional well-being, behavior, or daily functioning. Early support can help address concerns before they become more serious.

Some signs that may indicate a need for professional support include:

• A sudden change in mood, sleep patterns, or signs of depression
• An abrupt decline in school performance or academic achievement
• A noticeable change in social interactions, such as withdrawing from friends and family or difficulty maintaining relationships

If any of these changes are affecting your child's well-being, school success, or relationships, our team is available to provide guidance, assessment, and support.

How do School-Based Therapists Help?

Referrals can be made by anyone who has concerns about a child or family's need for services and support. The referral process is designed to be simple and accessible, ensuring that individuals and families can be connected to appropriate resources as quickly as possible.

Referrals may be made by:

• Parents or guardians
• Caregivers
• Social workers
• School staff and educators
• Concerned community members
• Mental health providers and other professionals

By allowing referrals from a variety of sources, the program helps ensure that children and families receive timely access to services, support, and resources that can promote their well-being, development, and success.

What Does Our School-Based Therapy Have?

Our school-based therapy program has a proven history of serving multiple school systems throughout the region, providing comprehensive behavioral health support that addresses the needs of students, families, educators, and the broader community. Through a collaborative and holistic approach, we work closely with all individuals involved in a student's success to promote positive outcomes both in and out of the classroom.

Key benefits of our program include:

• A strong record of successful service in regional school districts
• A holistic counseling approach that engages students, families, teachers, and other support systems
• Demonstrated results in improving academic performance by reducing absenteeism, suspensions, expulsions, and classroom disruptions
• Access to a comprehensive network of professionals offering screenings, assessments, referrals, physician services, crisis intervention, hospitalization support, suicide prevention, and substance use treatment
• High satisfaction ratings from students, families, school administrators, and faculty
• Reliable, flexible services delivered when and where they are needed within the school setting
• Educational training and presentations for students, parents, teachers, staff, and community partners on a wide range of behavioral health topics

By combining accessible services, experienced professionals, and strong community partnerships, our program helps create healthier students, stronger families, and more supportive learning environments.

What is KSTEP?

KSTEP is an evidence-informed program targeted at families involved in the child welfare system. KSTEP follows an in-home service model, which has proven effectiveness by eliminating barriers associated with traditional office settings. KSTEP is intended to increase case coordination services and partnerships with the family and allow for rapid access to clinical services, such as substance use treatment. 

Why is KSTEP the Program for Me?

A report has been made & there is evidence to support that substance use issues present a very high risk of harm to my child(ren) & there is a chance they may be removed from my home.

This program is my opportunity to receive treatment and assistance in keeping my children safe and in my home. 

What can I expect from being in KSTEP

The first 1-2 weeks of the program, you & your family will go through several assessments & meetings so that the KSTEP provider can ensure you have all the appropriate services to keep your child(ren) safe in your home. This will be a very busy time. 

If you need help with transportation for appointments, your KSTEP provider will help arrange transportation. 

You will have random drug screens to determine if you are substance-free. If you need help paying for these tests, your KSTEP provider will assist you with this. At first, you will need to test weekly but the further you move through the program, the fewer tests you will have.

Based on your individual needs, you may be referred to an outside treatment provider for treatment. This may include detox, IOP intensive outpatient), inpatient, residential or MAT (medication assisted treatment). 

Your KSTEP provider will work with you on your goals that will include keeping your child(ren) safely in your home. The KSTEP provider will do all they can to find treatment providers & schedules that meet your needs. They will also help you overcome barriers that have stood in the way of past success. 

KSTEP providers will use strength & solution based approach. This means knowing what is working or has worked for you & what your strengths are so we can build on these. You can also expect lots of celebration when things go right! 

What are my expectations in KSTEP?

You will be expected to participate fully in the program which includes:

• Being available for all appointments, both in home & in the community
• Having a consistent way to be contacted & answer or return calls,  Signing releases for all providers involved to share information
• Following all safety plans that are put into place including supervision & safe sleeping
• Going for random drug tests & providing adequate test samples when called
• Following through with all recommendations made for you & your family

Most importantly, in order for this program to work, you will need to be open in your communications with your providers & work on the new plans & skills that you learn to keep you & your family safe. The providers cannot truly help if they are not aware of all the issues & problems you need help with.

What Does Our School-Based Therapy Have?

Our school-based therapy program has a proven history of serving multiple school systems throughout the region, providing comprehensive behavioral health support that addresses the needs of students, families, educators, and the broader community. Through a collaborative and holistic approach, we work closely with all individuals involved in a student's success to promote positive outcomes both in and out of the classroom.

Key benefits of our program include:

• A strong record of successful service in regional school districts
• A holistic counseling approach that engages students, families, teachers, and other support systems
• Demonstrated results in improving academic performance by reducing absenteeism, suspensions, expulsions, and classroom disruptions
• Access to a comprehensive network of professionals offering screenings, assessments, referrals, physician services, crisis intervention, hospitalization support, suicide prevention, and substance use treatment
• High satisfaction ratings from students, families, school administrators, and faculty
• Reliable, flexible services delivered when and where they are needed within the school setting
• Educational training and presentations for students, parents, teachers, staff, and community partners on a wide range of behavioral health topics

By combining accessible services, experienced professionals, and strong community partnerships, our program helps create healthier students, stronger families, and more supportive learning environments.

Locations

Mason County Outpatient Office

611 Forest Avenue

Maysville KY 41056

• Monday: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
• Tuesday: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.  and 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Fleming County Outpatient Office

610 Elizaville Avenue

Flemingsburg, KY 41041

• Monday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Lewis County Outpatient Office

83 2nd Street

Vanceburg, KY 41179

• Monday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Admission Criteria

Not everyone will be appropriate for this program; therefore the following admission criteria has been established to assure appropriate referrals.

• Clients must be 18 years of age or older.
• Each client must be physically stable (defined as not being in acute physical withdrawal.)
• Each client must be mentally stable (defined as not being in acute mental crisis.)
• Each client must be motivated to stop substance abusing behavior.
• Each client much consent to random drug screenings. 

Phase System

Clients will move through the program by way of a phase system. There are three phases which vary in duration. Each phase has specific requirements which must be met in order to progress to the next phase. Random drug/alcohol screenings can occur at any level of treatment, and cooperation with screening is also required. The program is designed to be completed within a 6 month time frame. 

Program Materials

We use materials from Living in Balance and The Matrix Model for Adults. Both are evidenced based approaches for recovery and relapse prevention.

Living in Balance is a program that helps people understand addiction and how the disease effects many areas of our lives. It also focusses on developing a personal recovery plan to prevent relapse, re-rebuild relationships, and get life back in balance.

The Matrix Model for Adults is a program of structured treatment meant to provide structure, knowledge and support to gain and maintain abstinence from substances. It helps change negative thought patterns that lead to addictive and criminal behavior.

Our program is designed to help support people in recovery, provide information for long to relapse prevention, and to holistically recover from the disease of addiction.

Random Drug/Alcohol Screenings

Random drug/alcohol screenings are a mandatory part of IOP participation. Screenings help hold clients accountable and ensure that each client is taking his/her recovery seriously.

Other benefits of screenings:

• Persons addicted to alcohol or drugs need clear and well-defined boundaries for effective treatment. 
• The IOP group as a whole must come first over any individual client. 
• Abstinence is a good indicator of motivation to change, and the converse is an indicator of one’s regression.  Impaired perceptions cannot be affected when one remains in an altered state.
• Performing random screens can motivate one toward abstinence to avoid unpleasant consequences until the greater motivation for recovery is found and experienced. 

Remaining in Intensive Outpatient Program

Clients are not automatically guaranteed program completion just because of attendance. This is treatment and all clients can be adversely affected by one client's negative attitude, apathy, or uncooperative spirit. Therefore not only is attendance and participation required, but demonstrated motivation is also necessary. The criteria for remaining in IOP is as follows:

• A demonstrated commitment to sobriety
• Regular attendance and participation in IOP activities
• A demonstrated motivation to become educated on, work toward, and become active in the process of recovery
• Attend 12-Step meetings (Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous) with the IOP group.
• Complete all IOP phases.
• Complete specific goals as outlined on individual client treatment plan. 

What is KY Moms MATR

 KY-Moms MATR helps you find the services you need to have the healthiest baby possible. 

Remember...

A baby is developing the entire nine months of pregnancy and stopping alcohol, tobacco or other drug use at any stage will improve his or her chances for a healthier life. It is never too late to get help. What greater gift could a mother give a child? 

What Services are Available?

Case Managers who understand family issues are available to help direct you to the services you and your baby need. Services are available at any time during your pregnancy, and will follow up with you and your baby for up to 60 days post delivery. KY-Moms MATR case management and prevention services include: 

• Case Management
• Crisis Intervention
• Substance Abuse Counseling/ Treatment
• Referral to prenatal and well baby care
• Healthy Baby Workshops
• Help with alcohol, tobacco and other drug problems

Information about other available community services such as: 

• Housing and other basic needs  Mental health counseling 
• Domestic violence services
• Smoking cessation assistance
• Parent education 

What is the cost?

 There is no charge to you for KY-Moms MATR services. There are incentives available for participation in case management that may assist with transportation or child care costs while participating in the program. 

Is my baby at risk?

 Problems during pregnancy can be caused by:

• Stress
• Poor Nutrition
• Tobacco use
• Alcohol use
• Drug use
• Depression or anxiety
• Domestic violence
• Lack of prenatal care
• Lack of support 

What is a Hight-Risk Pregnancy

A high-risk pregnancy could be caused by one or more of the following risk factors:

• Poor nutrition
• Domestic violence
• Tobacco use
• Alcohol use
• Drug use
• Stress
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Family issues
• Little or no prenatal care 

These risk factors may lead to problems such as:

• Intellectual/Developmental delays
• Impaired growth
• Facial malformations
• Organ defects
• Premature birth
• Low birth weight
• Eating and sleeping problems
• Placental abruption
• Excessive crying
• Poor sucking ability
• Learning disabilities
• Withdrawal from substances used during pregnancy 

About Us

To close a service gap in the Buffalo Trace Area Development District (BTADD), Comprehend, Inc. has opened a buprenorphine clinic within its community mental health center. This clinic offers people with substance and opioid use disorders (SUD/OUD), co-morbid polysubstance use and co-occurring mental illness, evidence-based treatment, recovery and support services. Medication assisted treatment options include Suboxone, Sublocade, Brixadi, and Vivitrol.

Buprenorphine and other medication-assisted treatment for SUD/OUD, reduces opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. As a result, clients are likely to persist in treatment, improving their outcomes and sustaining recovery. The REACH Clinic's mission is to improve clients’ lives and contribute to the overall health and resilience of our communities. We hope this will create a lasting positive change and promote integrated, community-driven treatment.

From Our Provider

REACH outpatient addiction treatment clinic in Maysville, KY provides evidence-based treatment for addiction to opioids like fentanyl, heroin, and oxycodone, stimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine, and treatment for alcohol use disorder with evidence-based medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

A variety of medications utilized include buprenorphine products like Suboxone®, Sublocade®, Brixadi® (oral and injectable forms), Vivitrol® (naltrexone) injection and oral product, and more. Although our treatment clinic doesn’t provide methadone, patients may be referred to methadone treatment or inpatient facilities as needed.

Screening for hepatitis infections and treatment or referral when appropriate is also available to REACH clients. Evidence-based medicine with Mavyret® and Epclusa® have a greater than 95% hepatitis C virus cure rate.

Also available in adjunct to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) are services like counseling, group therapy, social service support, recovery support, peer support services and psychiatric services.

The mission is to save lives, improve quality of life, and foster hope in a holistic approach with evidence-based practices and compassion.

We look forward to serving you,

Robyn Keaton, MSN APRN FNP-C CARN-AP 

Addiction Clinician

About Us

Assistance and support with treatment, medication, housing, employment and family stresses to assist the client to remain in the community successfully. 

Who is on the Teams?

The team consists of the client, team leader, case manager, peer support specialist, counselor, psychiatrist, nurse and vocational (work) specialist. 

How long does the program last?

 It is different for each person depending on their needs but can be long term. 

What do I have to do?

1. Your therapist makes a referral to the team. 
2. ACT members will set a time to meet with you.
3. You are expected to be available at those times.
4. You will play an active role in setting goals for yourself and making plans to meet those goals.
5. You are asked to let the team know if you are having any problems.
6. You are expected to listen to the staff recommendations and voice any concerns or changes to them.
7. Participation is voluntary though is encouraged to help you stay in the community and avoid crisis situations. 

About Us

Comprehend’s Life Connections is a  therapeutic program designed to assist  those with mental illness or emotional  disorders and to facilitate their daily living  skills and overall functioning.  Life  Connections foster a personal support  network to increase quality of life.

Core Principles 

• All people have the capacity to learn  and grow.
• All people are to be treated with  respect, dignity, and with a conscious  and consistent effort to eliminate  discrimination of any type, including  discrimination based on disabling  conditions.
• Services are to be designed to  address the unique needs of each  individual.
• Services encourage and support the  involvement of the person in  community activities.
• The involvement of persons receiving  services and their family members is  essential to the effective operation and  evaluation of the Life Connections  Program.  

What Do We Do?

Life Connections helps individuals to live  and achieve social and personal  functioning.  The Life Connections’  services include:  

• Rehabilitation
• Case Management
• Crisis Services
• Supported Employment
• Medication Management 
• Psychiatric Services  

 Life Connections Services are design to:

• Decreased need for hospitalization.
• Build on personal strengths of an  individual to work toward and  accomplish goals.
• Help individuals to increase social  skills and build quality relationships.
• Develop strategies to cope with  emotional stressors and avoid crisis.
• Provide opportunities to enhance self  reliance and productivity.
• Help individuals regain skills in coping  with everyday life. 
• Help individuals build back  relationships that may have changed  due to their mental illness. 

Life Connections Program services are intended to help those who have  significant problems with the ability to  perform:

• Self-Maintenance
• Occupational Responsibilities
• Independent Living/Social Skills
• Effective Management of their Disability

How to Begin?

An individual can be referred to the Life  Connections Program if he or she has  severe problems due to mental illness or  other emotional disorders. Referrals are made by therapist and  medical staff.  

Buffalo Trace Career Solutions Offers

• On-site support and consultation services.
• Ongoing follow-up to address changing business demands.
• Qualified employment candidates who are well known to professional employment staff.
• Time invested at your business to observe your unique employment needs.
• Opportunity to hire a significantly under-utilized pool of qualified employment candidates.

Who is Supported Employment?

Supported employment programs afford those  with mental illness the opportunity for  employment in viable and valid work scenarios  with supportive assistance on-site and as  needed. These services are tailored to the  individual strengths and deficits of each person  to facilitate learning and carrying out a chosen  job. While the concept of supported  employment has been in use for some years,  recently it has received increased attention as an  integral component of programming to afford  better access for those with disabilities to  significant and comprehensive work venues. 

Office of Disability Employment Policy says...  

Employers should take steps to attract and  retrain employees with disabilities, such as

• Seeking out qualified candidates with  disabilities for job openings.
• Incorporating a disability focus into any  diversity training program.
• Ensuring that internal professional  development programs are available to  people with disabilities.
• Providing employees with disabilities candid  and prompt feedback on their performance  in the same manner as provided for  individuals without disabilities.  

Our Business Approach is all About...  

• Employer centered job fulfillment
• Employee centered job selection
• Customized employment options
• On-site consultation
• On-site training assistance
• Follow-up consultation
• Promoting positive outcomes

In Order to...

• Increase employee longevity
• Optimize employer and employee satisfaction
• Highlight employee assets
• Promote creative employment options
• Develop mutually beneficial working  relationships
• Positively impact everyday living and financial stability

Basic Concepts

Supported employment services should achieve  the following outcomes: 

• Opportunity to earn equitable wages and other employment-related benefits
• Development of new skills 
• Increased community participation
• Enhanced self-esteem 
• Increased consumer empowerment
• Quality of life

Benefits to Employers 

• No fee to employer
• Thoroughly screened applicants
• Employees' abilities matched to job requirements
• On-site job training by professionals
• Additional training, as necessary
• Follow-up services for the duration of  employment  financial stability