ACS provides individual and group treatment to youth up to age 21 who are court-involved or at risk for court involvement. Our services are:
- Low-barrier – Services are provided at no cost to families. Health insurance is not required.
- Accessible – In-person and virtual appointments are offered. In-person appointments are available in Cambridge, Framingham, and Lowell. ACS serves kids in Middlesex County.
- Professional – ACS providers are experienced, licensed mental health clinicians. Treatment goals are highly individualized and established in partnership with our clients.
Individual Treatment Program
ACS offers short-term individual treatment for youth up to age 21. Treatment focuses on self-identified issues and helping the child develop positive ways to manage life stressors.
Group Treatment Program
THRIVE – Teen Health, Relationships, Independence, Vision, Empowerment
THRIVE is a group treatment program for teens ages 13-17. It aims to foster a community of learning, growth, and support.
This is an eight-week psychoeducational program which allows teens to access services quickly. This program is recommended for teens seeking counseling for the first time, teens who may be on a waitlist for outpatient services, and teens without a significant mental health history.
THRIVE goals include enhancing self-awareness and self-esteem, strengthening communication skills, developing a range of healthy coping skills, and improving decision-making.
Eligibility
- Live in Middlesex County
- Currently court-involved or at risk for court involvement
- Youth up to age 21 are eligible for individual treatment
- Teens ages 13-17 are eligible for THRIVE group treatment
Referrals
Children and teens can be referred to the ACS Treatment Program by a variety of sources, including the District Attorney’s Juvenile Diversion program, probation officers, assistant clerk magistrates, judges, attorneys, school adjustment counselors, clinicians, parents/guardians, community-based organizations, and state agencies
You can submit a referral for individual or group treatment by:
- Complete and submit the referral form online.
- Download the pdf referral form and email a completed version to Sarah Langis at sarah.langis@acskids.org or fax the form to 617-494-0136.
Treatment opened my eyes to a lot of things. I didn’t realize how deep in a hole I was, and now I am communicating with my mom, not fighting, and have earned her trust back.
THRIVE Participant
Contact ACS Treatment Director, Sarah Langis, LMHC at sarah.langis@acskids.org or at 617-494-0135 with any questions.
