Family Driven
Families in Systems of Care
The system of care concept guides communities that are creating a coordinated network of local services and supports to meet the complex needs of youth with serious emotional and behavioral health challenges and their families. Each community builds and adapts a network according to its own collaboratively defined needs and goals. These incorporate system of care principles, and aim to help youth and families thrive at home, in school and in the community.
The guiding principles are: family driven, youth guided, and culturally and linguistically competent. Maine’s system of care is also trauma informed meaning that providers are trained to understand the effects of trauma, and can work more effectively with those receiving services.
Thrive System of Care Initiative supports the philosophy and practices of the family-run G.E.A.R. Parent Network, where “Gaining Empowerment Allows Results.” FREE G.E.A.R. resources for familes of children with significant behavioral health issues include: phone support, statewide workshops, trainings and support groups, and the G.E.A.R. Family Support Partner Program. G.E.A.R. also sponsors five regional groups comprising the Family Advisory Councils for Empowerment Statewide.
