Intensive Family Services (ICS/FIRST)

Our Intensive Family Services are designed to support families where a child or adolescent has severe mental health needs. We offer care through the Intensive Community Services and the Family Intensive Reunification and Stabilization (FIRST) Team. These programs offer similar supports but differ based on which state agency handles the referral.

Intensive Community Services

The Intensive Community Services (ICS) team provides in-home intensive clinical case management and treatment for children with severe emotional disturbances who are at risk for out-of-home placement. ICS works with youth and their families to coordinate supports within the community including schools, hospitals, religious institutions, and community agencies. Our goal is to help families identify, strengthen, and enhance support systems that will assist the long-term sustainability and success of the child within the family and community.

To view our downloadable Intensive Community Services flyer, click the image below.

 

 

 

 

 

Referrals can be made only by the Department of Mental Health.
For more information: 617-420-5443

Family Intensive Reunification and Stabilization Team

The Family Intensive Reunification and Stabilization Team (FIRST) is designed to significantly reduce or eliminate the amount of time children with severe emotional disturbances spend in out-of-home placement (such as hospitals or institutions). We accomplish this by partnering with families and community providers to divert placement or accelerate the reunification process. FIRST provides home-based clinical case management, including family work, case management services, brief respite, and one-on-one support for family members.

Referrals can be made only by the Department of Child and Family Services.
For more information: 617-420-5787