Berks County Brief Treatment

Currently offered in Berks County, Behavioral Health Rehabilitative Services
(BHRS) Brief Treatment is a mental health service for children and adolescents
that is considered less intensive than “BHRS”, but more intensive than traditional
outpatient therapy. Brief Treatment adheres to many of the same principles
of Wraparound and stresses the importance of family and community involvement
in the treatment process. Brief Treatment occurs in a child’s natural setting
(i.e. home, school and community) and consists of either a Behavioral Specialist
or a Mobile Therapist.
Behavioral Specialist Consultant (BSC)
- This master’s level position provides behavioral intervention consultation
to the treatment team. Services are designed to be consultative in nature rather
than direct service to the child and family. The BSC also has the capabilities
to consult with school staff and the parent (s) in order to maintain consistency
and continuity of care across all settings.
Mobile Therapist (MT) - This master’s level position provides direct therapy services to the child
and family. The MT may provide therapy in the home, school and community. In
Brief Treatment, the MT may also provide behavioral consultation if indicated.
Major differences from “Wraparound” services
- TSS role is not provided
- Treatment is limited to either a Behavioral Specialist Consultant (BSC)
or a Mobile Therapist (MT). A member cannot receive both services at the
same time.
- The role of the MT can be expanded to include behavioral health
consultation if indicated.
- Treatment length is time-limited to a maximum of thirty-six
weeks.
- Treatment amount is limited to a minimum of one hour per week and a
maximum of six hours per week.
- Booster sessions are available if necessary. These are two-week treatment
sessions that may be used to stabilize the child and family within one year
after services have ended.
BHRS Brief Treatment is intended for:
- Children
or adolescents in need of a step down from more intensive levels of care
including inpatient treatment, Residential Treatment Facilities, Partial
Hospitalizations, Wraparound and Family Based Services.
- Children or adolescents
in need of a step up in service from outpatient therapy but not in need of
the intensity of Wraparound Services.
- Children or adolescents in need of further
assessment by a master’s level
clinician possessing mental health expertise. A very young child displaying
significant behavior problems but with no prior mental health services may
be appropriate for Brief Treatment.