Children's Home of Kingston Health Services
Our clinical department consists of licensed social workers with significant experience working with youth and their families. These social workers prepare the treatment plans for each youth in conjunction with the rest of the treatment team.
Children and Family Treatment and Support Services
Our clinical department has been designate by the New York State Office of Mental Health to provide Children and Family Treatment Support Services, a component of special services also approved through the Department of Health and the Office of Children and Family Services. These services help assist youth in crisis (at home and at our facility), improve independent living skills, create opportunities for community inclusion and build on skills training utilizing youth and family strengths.
Providing all case management needs either between, families, school districts and or the Department of Social Services.
Each child receives individual private sessions, approximately 30-45 minutes in length 2-3 times a week depending on need. During each session current symptoms are addressed along with past trauma and attachment issues. Licensed Social Workers also provide screening to the children to identify depression, anxiety, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal ideations, etc.
Goals for therapy are identified, and are child and family centered (If Family are currently involved) and are the driving force of treatment.
Social Skills, Anger Management, Coping Skills
Psychiatric interventions/evaluations and medication management is handled by our psychiatric nurse practitioner, who works in sync with our clinical and nursing staff.
Assisting with de-escalating a child in crisis and doing this in the most least traumatic way
Providing training on trauma informed care to staff so they can better care for and support the children
- All medications are prescribed by licensed NYS physicians and psychiatrists.
- All youth receive a physical during their first 30 days of placement and annually thereafter.
- Immunizations records are secured and missing inoculations are provided.
- Dental and vision care is a priority and every attempt is made to ensure the health of all residents.
- Health Services staff are involved with Independent Living Skills by teaching the boys how to get medical care when they leave, and by discussing what's needed by adults for healthy bodies and minds.
- Boys who have special needs such as weight loss or medical conditions are supported through tasks and medical appointments as required.
Perhaps the most important aspect of health services is the TLC that is provided on a daily basis, mixing common sense with gentle love and a genuine concern for the boys' well being. Our nursing, clinical, and residential staff will always lend a caring ear and comfort to the boys when they are sick or injured.
Nutritional services at Children's Home of Kingston rise to the challenge of providing foods that are both healthy and enjoyable. Meals are served "family style" in a cafeteria that is located in the Administration Building. Breakfast and supper are eaten in cottage groups, supervised by residential workers who share meals with the boys. As in most schools, lunch is eaten in class groups and is shared with teachers and counselors. Snacks are provided in the afternoon and evening. Because all staff are invited to eat meals in the cafeteria, youth have a great opportunity to meet, talk, and interact with the staff who sit at tables on a daily basis.
All menus are reviewed and approved by a registered dietician and provide a healthy mix of vegetables, fruits, protein, carbohydrates and desserts. A staff of cooks and assistants work under the guidance of our Director of Food Services to prepare wholesome and delicious meals that suit the varied tastes of adolescent boys. Special meals celebrating holidays and ethnic events are especially enjoyed by the boys and staff - barbecues and picnics in the summer months provide ways to combine recreation and nutrition.