Therapeutic Mentoring

Therapeutic mentoring services are available to youth under the age of 21 in various settings, including their homes (foster and therapeutic foster homes), schools, child care centers, respite settings, and other community locations that are culturally and linguistically appropriate. This service provides structured, one-to-one, strength-based support to address daily living, social, and communication needs.

The core components of therapeutic mentoring include supporting, coaching, and training the youth in age-appropriate behaviors, interpersonal communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and social interaction. These services are guided by a behavioral health treatment plan developed in collaboration with a licensed professional counselor, the family, the therapeutic mentor, and the youth. Mentors supervise youth interactions and engage them in discussions on handling peer interactions effectively.

Therapeutic mentoring aims to ensure youth success in various social contexts, fostering new skills and functional progress. Progress towards treatment plan goals is regularly documented and reported to the youth’s current service provider(s). Interventions include engaging youth in activities that support their treatment goals, such as social activities, recreational activities, athletic activities, artistic or creative activities, educational or vocational activities, and practical training in community-based tasks like using public transportation or applying for a job. These services are designed to support age-appropriate social functioning and address any deficits, helping youth navigate social contexts and make functional progress.