The Catskill Chronicle

MONTICELLO, NY (December 3, 2010) – Last year Sullivan ARC celebrated it’s 60th Anniversary (see video below). This year it is expanding on the programs that it already provides.

In November, SullivanArc, introduced the first “Children’s Mobile Crisis Intervention” service in the area. The program, which is for children under 18, is designed to assist a parent or guardian in need of an intervention during a time of crisis.

The program operates after traditional business hours, when most children are at home. It provides immediate assistance to children and their families when the child is experiencing a crisis. A certified Social Worker is available to provide guidance and support via telephone. If more assistance is needed, the Social Worker will travel to the home and provide a one–on–one intervention. When possible, the Social Worker arrives quickly and quietly as to not cause a disturbance.

Maureen Stewart, director of the program, says the goal is to help children avoid being hospitalized needlessly for psychiatric reasons, as well as “to be there after hours to help families with their children during a crisis”.

SullivanArc endorses a progressive philosophy that is proactive and their approach involves techniques that are preventative and positive as opposed to reactive.

The “Children’s Mobile Crisis Intervention” service provided by Sullivan ARC is free. To be eligible, the child must be diagnosed with, or presumed to have a developmental disability or a serious emotional disturbance.

In addition to the immediate intervention, the family will be given recommendations or referrals for services or treatment in Sullivan County, as well as receive follow up support.

The phone number to access the service is 845-701-3777. The hours of operation are weekdays from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. and weekends and holidays.

To learn more about the program, please call Maureen Stewart at SullivanArc at 845-796-1350 ext. 2801.

Courtesy of SullivanARC December 1, 2009