Child & Youth Services
We understand that every child is unique, facing their own set of challenges. We specialize in providing tailored programs and services for children aged 0-17 years. Our approach is uniquely crafted to address a diverse range of case management and counseling services, to those with disabilities, individuals affected by trauma, and those justice involved.
Our unique programs and approaches are designed to meet the individualized needs of each family, ensuring effective and meaningful treatment and support.
Our services are:
JFS’ high-skilled therapists in Cape May County provide specialized services to help youth and their families manage emotions and behaviors related to trauma exposure. Utilizing Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), we support children and adolescents affected by abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and exposure to domestic violence.
Our therapists are trained in evidence-based interventions to treat trauma-related issues, including depression, anxiety, anger management difficulties, behavioral problems, and learning difficulties. Our therapy aims to empower individuals to solve problems more effectively, enhance coping skills, improve cooperation with family and school rules, and reduce problematic emotions and behaviors. Through this comprehensive approach, we offer crucial support to youth and their families, fostering resilience and healing.
At JFS, we offer tailored counseling services for students facing challenges such as separation anxiety, school refusal, and aggressive behavior, utilizing evidence-based practices of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Parent Management Training. Our therapists specialize in addressing youth stressors related to bullying, divorce, and trauma exposure, providing coping skills to alleviate depression, anxiety, and stress. With a focus on family involvement and convenient locations in Atlantic City and Margate, our mission is to empower children, adolescents, and their families, providing essential tools to overcome obstacles and thrive as their best selves.
Types of evidence-based therapy treatment models, utilized by JFS:
Parent Management Training (PMT) is a successful approach to address common behavior problems such as temper tantrums, refusal to do chores or severe aggression. The program is designed for children ages 3-14 years old. PMT generally requires 12-16 meetings. Sessions are held with the parent(s)/caregiver and youth and, when necessary, siblings.
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) assists children who demonstrate behavior or emotional disruptions following a traumatic event. The program is created for children 3-17 years old and generally requires 12-20 one-hour sessions. It has been shown to reduce trauma symptoms with improvements lasting long after treatment ends. For youth receiving trauma treatment, therapists have also been trained to address Problematic Sexual Behaviors associated with the trauma.
Dedicated to assisting teens and young adults with disabilities, aged 16-24, in Atlantic and Cape May Counties, this initiative supports out-of-school youth in finding stable employment and achieving their career goals. We help participants and their family transition from high school to the workforce or further education by offering comprehensive guidance, valuable connections, and ongoing support. Whether they have dis-enrolled from school, graduated, or aspire to work, continue their education, join the military, or pursue job training, our program is designed to meet their unique needs and empower them to succeed.
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
Designed specifically to support high school students with disabilities, including those with an IEP or 504 plan, as they transition from school to the workforce or post-secondary education. Our dedicated staff work closely with individuals to develop personalized career plans aligned with their abilities and interests. With offerings including paid internships, job-based exploration, soft skills development, and communication training, the Pre-ETS program equips young individuals with the tools and resources needed to succeed in their future endeavors. Additionally, services are provided at no cost to those who qualify, ensuring accessibility for all eligible participants aged 14 to 21 currently enrolled in school.
Home Electronic Detention System (HEDS) Case Management
As an alternative to jail or youth detention centers, the court may release youth onto HEDS, where they can then be referred to JFS for case management support. Our dedicated case managers work closely with youth and their family develop a personalized treatment plan and help them set and achieve personal goals while demonstrating progress to the court and reducing technical violations. This comprehensive support includes skill-building, problem-solving, communication, health decision-making, self-care, coping skills, and anger management, as well as connections to vocational assistance, educational support and advocacy resources. Our staff provides psychoeducation and assistance in developing resources tailored to the youth in the program with a focus on reducing racial disparity within the juvenile justice system.
Please note that HEDS Case Management does not accept external referrals.
Home Electronic Detention System (HEDS) Step Down
Intensive supervision and case management provided directly to youth upon release from the detention center. Participants require careful oversight including two daily contacts, either by phone or face-to-face to ensure consistent support and accountability. In addition to supervision, the program offers comprehensive case management, focusing on assessment, treatment, skill building, and connecting participants to vital resources.
Participants are assigned to this program through the Atlantic County Juvenile Justice system.
When a Division of Children’s Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) worker identifies a family that could benefit from additional support while maintaining custody of their children, they can refer them to JFS. This specialized case management provides a dedicated case manager to collaborate with the parent(s) and the DCPP staff to assess the situation, identify needs, and develop a tailored treatment plan. This includes connecting families to essential community resources, including financial assistance, housing support, food security, and medical and mental health services. JFS’ goal is to help families access the support they need to stay together and thrive, empowering them to succeed without further professional intervention.
This program is only available by referral from the Division of Children’s Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) -formerly known as DYFS.
Families who are in the Atlantic County Recovery Court system have the opportunity to engage in fun activities to practice managing emotions, setting goals, making better decisions and strengthening relationships. This program offers a vital lifeline to parents with a history of substance use, providing comprehensive support and prevention services.
Through a range of services such as group activities and self-help skills training, we strive to enhance the well-being and stability of our clients.
FORE program concentrates on enhancing parenting skills, strengthening family bonds, effective Communication skills, problem solving, substance abuse protection, and navigating societal pressures.
Referrals should be made through a recovery treatment provider.
