The emotional, behavioral, and psychiatric needs of children and their families are unique, and are best cared for in a specially designed treatment program.

The REACH Children's Program is an intensive outpatient service for children between 5 and 12 years who are experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties. The Program meets 3 hours a day, 5 days a week, and includes a multifamily group on Thursdays. REACH is designed to reduce the need for hospitalization, decrease residential placement and assist in keeping families intact. We offer the following services: assessment; group therapy; multi-family group work; recreational, art and pet therapy; medication management and case management.

Who May Need Our Help?

Children who exhibit the following symptoms may benefit from treatment:

• depression or social isolation
• suicidal thoughts or passive death wish
• extreme mood swings
• aggressive, threatening behavior
• hyperactivity
• school avoidance or refusal
• oppositional behavior

Child Program Hours

Monday–Friday: 11:00 – 2:00pm (5-8 year olds); 1:00 – 4:00 pm (9-12 Year olds)

Families are required to attend a weekly multifamily group session.

Our Staff

The REACH Child Program is staffed by a multidisciplinary treatment team including a child psychiatrist, social workers, a psychiatric nurse, a recreational therapist and support staff. Additionally, as part of Bridgeport Hospital and Yale New Haven Health, the REACH Children’s Program has access to a variety of other medical and rehabilitation specialists and nutritionists.

How to Access the Program

Patients may be referred by schools, clinics, physicians, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and other healthcare providers. Parents may also make direct referrals to the program. Please call 203-384-3377, 8:30-5:00 pm and ask for an evaluation appointment.

Courtesy transportation may be available. Contact us for more information.

Insurance

The REACH Child Program is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and by many commercial insurance plans.