Intensive Behavioral Health Services (IBHS)

 IBHS For Children & Families

 

What are Intensive Behavioral Health Services?

Intensive Behavioral Health Services (IBHS) is a short-term, intensive program for children and adolescents up to the age of 21 who are experiencing behavioral health challenges. All behavoiral health rehailitation services are provided in the home, school and community settings.

Behavioral support is provided wherever it is needed, including in the home, school, or daycare -wherever the child encounters challenges that need to be addressed.

What Do IBHS Services Include?

IBHS services are collaborative and multidisciplinary, involving a team of professionals who are committed to creating a supportive network around the child. Through this program, your child is empowered with the tools and skills they need to manage their behaviors effectively, improve their social interactions, and enhance their overall quality of life.

IBHS helps to foster resilience and promote long-term positive outcomes.

Behavior Consultants

Our behavior consultants are all trained and have experience in applied behavior analysis (ABA). ABA is a scientifically proven approach for helping children make lasting behavior change. It is effective at teaching children appropriate ways to express emotions and needs and achieve success at home and in school.

Mobile Therapists

Our mobile therapists are all trained and have experience in the social thinking model and trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy (TF-CBT). Social thinking is a research-based model that focuses on age appropriate social and emotional regulation skills. TF-CBT is designed to help children who have experienced traumatic events, grief, and loss.

Behavioral Health Technicians

Our behavioral health technicians (BHT’s) provide one on one direct treatment under the supervision of the behavior consultant. A BHT implements the goals and interventions outlined within the child’s treatment plan.

 

Who can receive IBHS?

IBHS is typically intended for individuals up to the age of 21 who are exhibiting significant behavioral health issues that impact their functioning in daily activities at home, school, or in the community.

To be eligible for IBHS, a child or adolescent usually requires a referral from a healthcare provider and a behavioral health disorder diagnosis to determine the level of care needed.

IBHS helps children and adolescents with a wide range of behavioral challenges. Some of the common mental health diagnoses include:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Children and adolescents who have experienced traumatic events may be showing symptoms of PTSD (such as flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and heightened anxiety). 
  • Anxiety Disorders - This includes generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias. 
  • Mood Disorders - Mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, can significantly affect a child's emotional regulation and behavior. 
  • Depression - Children and adolescents with depression may struggle with persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and other debilitating symptoms. 
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - IBHS is particularly beneficial for individuals with ASD, offering specialized support to enhance communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors.

Our goal is to assess mental health or behavioral concerns. Our service is designed to empower parents, caregivers, and teachers so they have the tools to successfully support their child’s needs once IBHS comes to an end.

 

How to get started:

Parents and guardians can make a direct referral to IBHS by contacting the Program Manager at 814-878-5945.

Additional Information:

State regulations specify that the IBHS staff:

  • May not provide personal care, child care (babysitting), or respite services in the home or community
  • May not serve as a classroom or academic aide in school settings
  • May not provide transportation or deliver medication to the child or family
  • In addition, staff must always work with a parent, teacher, or other adult caretaker present.


The IBHS quality plan is available for review upon request. Please send all requests to BNIerie@barberni.org.

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