Guide to Mental Health Professionals

NEW: Guide to Local Support Groups and Internet Resources

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Following a Natural Disaster or Other Trauma

Family Support Services

Services for Adults

Information and Referral Services

Community Education

Starlight Peer Advocacy Center for Empowerment (SPACE)

Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)

The Story of the Bell

Links to Related Sites

The respite program provides group recreation for children who have a mental health or developmental disability, or where one parent has a psychiatric disability. Trained adults serve as role models and supervisors for youth while they enjoy recreational experiences at places such as the "Y" and at the gym located in the Henry St. John Building in Ithaca.

Sometimes, families need to have a respite provider assigned to give one-on-one respite for children and youth who require additional supervision or behavioral supports. This individual respite is arranged only on an as-needed basis, and must be approved through agency supervisory personnel; it may occur by agreement with other agencies and programs, such as the Home and Community Based Waiver Program.

All of our respite providers have had a background check and have undergone a minimum of two weeks of training; they are CPR and First Aid certified, as well as having skills in behavior management and child development. Additionally, they are familiar with the unique needs of children and youth who might lack social skills or have other developmental lags, for whatever reason.

Parent input into planning the respite care is crucial. Workers need to know what the child likes, his or her needs in terms of special focus or attention: in short, what works or doesn't work. We coordinate with parents to establish goals and direction for the service.

Respite may be provided on an emergency basis in the event of a severe and unexpected event; however, parents are strongly encouraged to establish a relationship with the Family Support program before such emergencies arise.

A Parent Advocate, provided by the Mental Health Association, can assist or accompany parents or guardians in many situations related to the well-being of their children, including attending school or agency meetings and Family Court. Parent Advocates can assist with obtaining legal services, provide assistance with housing issues, help gain access to treatment resources, and coordinate services with other agencies.