>> The Clinical Department is designed to assist individuals who suffer from behavioral issues, mental illness, emotional disturbances, substance abuse, developmental disabilities or a combination of diagnoses. The clinical team is comprised of certified counselors and clinicians who are trained to recognize the clinical needs of the individuals and provide effective treatment. The clinical team also functions as a liaison between individuals and outside clinical/medical providers.

The Clinical Department works closely with all members of the individual’s treatment team to ensure consistent and confidential implementation of any treatment modality developed. All interventions include a comprehensive and functional analysis to determine the appropriate treatment. The treatment protocol coincides with the individual’s goals and the agency’s person centered philosophy. Additionally, crises intervention, anger management, disposition monitoring and assistance with the effectiveness of medications in treating psychiatric problems and progress reports are standard practices. Ever mindful of our responsibility to the consumers and the community, Alternatives provides employee training to all staff on specific topics such as psychiatric issues and behavioral challenges in addition to instruction on specific ways to effectively communicate with individuals with disabilities. For more information contact Michael DeGasperis at mdegasperis@alternativesinc.org.

>> School Services - Clinical Specialists work one on one with high school students who may have developmental disabilities, mental illness or behavioral problems. The course of action is determined in accordance with the student’s own Individualized Education Program to provide supportive counseling, daily living skills training, behavioral interventions, recreation and social opportunities.

>> Fee-for-Service - The department provides counseling services to outside providers on a fee for service scale. These services include comprehensive treatment in addition to individual and/or group counseling, and transitional services for independent living for individuals with behavioral and/or mental health concerns.