ACT Team for Transitional Youth

Making the transition from youth to adulthood can be difficult, even under the best circumstances. But for teens and young adults dealing with ongoing mental health issues, the challenges may be overwhelming at times. Beech Brook’s Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team can provide the treatment, support and stability individuals and their families need as they move through these changes.

Beech Brook’s ACT Team is one of only a few ACT Teams nationwide that provide this type of treatment and support for 16-22-year-old individuals and their families. Research has shown that ACT Teams can significantly reduce the need for inpatient care and help individuals lead healthier, independent lives by providing the support they need to hold jobs, complete their educations and remain safely in the community.

How will the ACT Team work?

Beech Brook’s ACT Team functions like a “hospital without walls.” A multidisciplinary team works together to provide each individual with the right mix of treatment and support. Teams include a project leader, psychiatrist, nurse, case managers, substance abuse specialist, vocational specialist and peer specialist. Most services are provided in the home or community. A team member is available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Diagnostic Assessment

Each individual coming into the program undergoes a thorough initial diagnostic assessment that covers psychiatric history, mental status and diagnosis; physical health; drug and alcohol use; education and employment; social development and functioning; activities of daily living; and family structure and relationships. Parts of this assessment may take place in the client’s home, in the community or the ACT office.

Services

All individuals will be eligible for the following services, with other specialized services tailored to individual needs:

  • Service coordination;
  • Crisis assessment and intervention;
  • Symptom assessment and management
  • Medication prescription, administration, monitoring and documentation;
  • Dual diagnosis substance abuse services;
  • Assistance with basic needs such as housing, finances, education, vocational training or employment;
  • Social/interpersonal relationship and leisure skill training;
  • Peer support services;
  • Education, support and consultation to families and other major supports;
  • Assistance with brief inpatient stays, if needed.

Family involvement is key

At the heart of all Beech Brook’s program is a commitment to permanency and family involvement in the treatment and recovery process. Family work is an integral part of every treatment plan for individuals still living with parents or relatives. When needed, Beech Brook’s ACT Team works to find adoptive homes or helps older teens transition from foster care to independent living. Our team will also work to identify adults who can provide permanent support for each youth leaving the foster care system without a family.

Making a referral

To begin the referral process, call Beech Brook’s Intake Department at 216.831.2255.

ACT Team offices

The ACT Team is located at Beech Brook’s Beachwood offices at 23355 Mercantile Rd.

For more information about the ACT Team, contact ACTteam@beechbrook.org.