This project is designed to provide a combination of training and technical assistance (TA) to personnel working in and for New Jersey’s Children’s System of Care (CSOC). These services seek to enhance provider capacity to support children with intellectual/developmental disabilities, who are dually diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder and/or engage in challenging behaviors that have not responded to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or other services currently provided.

Training is provided in a variety of relevant areas. The primary training session conducted through a collaboration with Rutgers University Behavioral Healthcare (UBHC) is on Positive Behavior Support (PBS). This workshop provides an overview on using Applied Behavior Analysis in a person-centered and proactive manner, for youth with IDD and challenging behavior.

Additional trainings also are provided on a variety of more specific topics including: Functional Behavior Assessment, other behavioral strategies, Autism and Anxiety, Anxiety and IDD, depression and IDD, integrating medication with behavioral strategies, and aggressive behavior.

These training sessions are available to personnel engaged with the NJ CSOC, ranging from care managers and administrators, to BCBAs, behavior technicians, therapists, parents, and other providers. A schedule of training sessions and registration information can be obtained through the Division of Children and Families (DCF)

TA is a service/resource provided by DCF/CSOC, to support Child and Family Teams (CFT), who are encountering unresolved challenges with complex treatment or behavior issues that have not responded to services the CFT has coordinated through CSOC.

Typically, the TA provider will consult with the Care Manager and then come alongside the CFT. This usually involves sitting in on CFT meetings and extend to additional consultation with specific team members to assist in addressing challenges in a specific area. Assistance may include recommendations for additional services, problem solving and treatment adaptations within the current services, or facilitating more effective collaboration within the team.

These supports can be provided for as long as the CFT identifies the need for support to address on-going clinical needs or behavioral challenges if the youth in question. TA is requested by the Care Manager. They should complete the attached referral form, and after the request is approved by the CMO administration, it is forwarded to DCF for final authorization.

For more information contact philip.smith@rutgers.edu.