Under the New York State Office of Mental Health, we are a certified Children's Mental Health Rehabilitation Services (CMHRS) Program. It is our mission to assist children and families with significant mental health and behavioral challenges to function successfully within their homes and community.

What are Children and Family Treatment and Support Services (CFTSS)?

Children and Family Treatment and Support Services (CFTSS) are behavioral health services covered by NYS Medicaid. CFTSS help children and youth with mental health and substance use needs. CFTSS work with each child/youth to provide care in a way that works best for them and their families. CFTSS are part of Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) services. EPSDT is a federal law. EPSDT services help find and treat children’s health problems early so that they can have the best health and development possible. CFTSS put the child/youth and family choice first and can be provided in a location that works best for the family.

Who is eligible for these services?

Children and Youth (under age 21) who are covered by Medicaid insurance and have mental health and/or substance use needs can get Children and Family Treatment and Support Services at no additional cost. Eligible children and youth must need help with social, emotional, or behavioral health challenges or need help with substance use challenges. 

Which CFTSS services does Family Support Services provide?

Therapeutic Rehabilitation Services: Other Licensed Practitioner (OLP), Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) and Community Psychiatric Supports and Treatment (CPST) assist children and youth:

• Assess for mental health/substance use needs.
• Identify strengths and abilities through group and/or individual therapy.
• Incorporate therapy goals into every day life. 
• Receive extra support managing medication. 
• Learn how to build relationships and improve communication
• Learn about self-care and managing emotions. 

Family Peer Support Services: provides a credentialed Family Peer Advocate, with lived experience in navigating the mental health system that works alongside families to:

• Support them in raising a child or youth with a mental health or substance use disorder.
• Provide information and resources to assist the family in meeting their needs.
• Support the family in strengthening natural supports and resources. 

*Family Peer Support Services can be offered to families that do not have Medicaid Insurance, as well.

Respite Services: Offered a few hours a week, determined by the need, this service is available to children and youth that do not meet the criteria for a Home and Community Based respite service.  Families should speak with their Care Managers to determine if they are eligible for this service.  If you do not have a Care Manager, please contact us directly to inquire.