Adolescence and young adulthood are times of growth, discovery and change. The lessons learned during these years shape who we become. But figuring it all out isn’t always easy. We’re here to listen, support and help young people find their way.
Youth Assertive Community Treatment (Youth ACT) is designed to support young people ages 10–21 living with serious emotional disturbance. Our goal is to help young people stay safely at home and connected to their communities while building the skills and confidence they need for personal and emotional growth.
As a family-based program, Youth ACT engages youth and caregivers as active partners in care. A dedicated, multidisciplinary team meets with your family in the home, at school and in the community. Together we build shared goals, strengthen your daily routines and relationships, and help your family stay safely connected so the youth can grow with confidence.
What Services Does Youth ACT Offer?
Youth and their families impacted by complex mental health needs can be supported by in‑home services including case management, therapy, education and skill building. These 24/7 services include:
- Case management, planning and assessment
- Individual, group and family counseling
- Skill‑building
- Crisis management
- Medication management
- Family peer advocacy
- Vocational and educational support
Eligibility
All referrals are made through the local Children’s Single Point of Access (C‑SPOA), a referral system for youth who need intensive mental health services to remain at home or in their community.
Eligible youth include:
- Ages 10 to 21 years
- Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED) diagnosis
- Ongoing high‑risk needs that cannot be met in a traditional service setting
- Reside in Erie or Niagara County
Why This Matters
“The care I received at Youth ACT is truly head and shoulders above what I have received at other places. I feel supported every step of the way. I’ve learned so much, and know the staff really cares about me personally.”
— Youth ACT client