Intercept
Acenda’s Intercept program provides in-home and community-based services for children ages 0–17 with emotional and behavioral needs, supporting families at risk of family separation or working toward reunification. Services focus on strengthening family relationships, preventing unnecessary separation, and supporting safe, timely reunification.
We’re here to help with:
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Safety Planning
Creating plans to keep youth from acting out risky and self-harming behaviors.
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Depression
Identifying symptoms and wellness strategies and providing linkages as appropirate.
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Stress & Anxiety
Identifying coping and stress management strategies to support wellness.
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Trauma
Providing support to navigate traumatic events and aid in the healing process.
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Behavioral Challenges in Children and Teens
Helping children and teens manage behavioral challenges while building healthy coping skills.
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Family Conflict
Providing guidance and support to resolve family conflicts and strengthen relationships.
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Self Esteem Struggles
Offering support to build confidence, improve self-worth, and develop a positive sense of self.
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Community Resources
Connecting you to important resources to guide you through your wellness journey.
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Parenting Support
Offering guidance and resources to help parents navigate challenges, strengthen relationships, and promote healthy family dynamics.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Intercept services:
- Must be referred by and have an open case with DCP&P
- The identified youth must be between the ages of 0-17
- The youth must have a high risk of being removed from their caregiver or in the process of reunifying with a caregiver.
- The youth must reside with a dedicated caregiver who is willing to participate in sessions
What to Expect
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Connecting with our Team
A referral from DCP&P is required to begin services. All referrals are made through the DCF data management system.
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Initial Meeting
After a referral is received, a Family Intervention Specialist will reach out to the youth and family by phone to complete a pre-admission assessment, explain the program, and schedule the first meeting.
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Moving Forward with Care
Services are provided in person within the family’s community, most often in the family’s home. Families will meet with the Family Intervention Specialist three times a week for one to one and a half hours. On average, the Intercept program can last up to 9 months.
FAQ’s
Who is this service for?
Intercept is for youth ages 0-17 and their family that are currently open with DCP&P. The youth must have a high risk of being removed from their caregiver or in the process of reunifying with a caregiver.
How long will it take to start receiving services?
Once a referral is received and the family is determined to be eligible, services will begin within 72 hours.
Do I need a referral to get started?
Yes, the youth and family must be referred by DCP&P.
Does this service cost anything?
No, the Intercept program does not cost anything.
Are services provided in person, virtual, or both?
Services are provided in person within the family’s community, most often in the family’s home.
How can Intercept help my child and family?
Intercept provides intensive, family-centered support to help children and teens remain safely with their caregivers whenever possible. A Family Intervention Specialist works closely with the entire family to strengthen relationships, improve communication, develop healthy coping skills, address behavioral and emotional challenges, and connect families with resources that promote long-term stability and well-being.
What can my family expect during Intercept visits?
Each visit is tailored to your family’s unique strengths, goals, and needs. Your Family Intervention Specialist will work with caregivers and youth to address immediate concerns, build parenting and communication skills, develop strategies for managing challenging behaviors, support emotional wellness, and connect your family with community resources that encourage lasting success.
Will parents and caregivers be involved throughout the program?
Yes. Intercept is built on active family participation. Caregivers play an important role in setting goals, learning new skills, and supporting their child’s progress throughout the program. Your Family Intervention Specialist will work collaboratively with your family to build on existing strengths and develop practical strategies that can be used long after services end.
What happens after Intercept services are completed?
As your family prepares to complete the program, your Family Intervention Specialist will work with you to develop a transition plan based on your ongoing needs. This may include connecting your family with community resources, behavioral health services, parenting supports, or other programs that help maintain progress and support continued success after Intercept concludes.
