Organization name: North Carolina Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources and Treatment (NC START)

Purpose/mission: NC START is a statewide community crisis prevention and intervention program for individuals age 6 and above with intellectual/developmental disability and co-occurring complex behavioral and/or mental health needs. The model works to improve the lives of the individuals served and their families by providing services and supports using a person-centered, positive, multidisciplinary, cost-effective, systemic and evidence-informed approach.

Population served: Individuals age 6+ with intellectual/developmental disability and co-occurring complex behavioral and/or mental health needs

Services/programs/resources offered:

• • START crisis prevention and intervention services are provided through clinical systemic consultation, training, education, therapeutic respite, crisis response and therapeutic coaching.

  • Resource Centers: Each START team has one Resource Center to provide therapeutic crisis respite and crisis prevention respite to eligible adults ages 18 and up. Each Resource Center has 4 beds: 2 planned respite beds and 2 crisis respite beds. Planned therapeutic respite is available in the Resource Centers for eligible adults living in unlicensed residential settings and receiving START services. Crisis therapeutic respite is available in the Resource Centers for all adults when clinically indicated and receiving START services.

  • START Services for Children: Children are eligible to receive Therapeutic Coaching in their home. Therapeutic Coaching aims to identify strengths and vulnerabilities of a support system, and work alongside individuals, families and care providers to promote growth and overall well being. Therapeutic Coaching is provided in both a planned and crisis capacity.

Costs/requirements to participate:

• • Referrals to NC START can be made by anyone known to the individual, with an understanding of the individual’s status and treatment, support and behavioral history, and the applicable consent for referral.

How families can access more information if interested in pursuing:

• • Contact info: Central Durham: 919-865-8730, 800-662-7119 x8730; Referrals: 919-865-8730

  • Website: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/mental-health-developmental-disabilities-and-substance-abuse/nc-start