The Systems Navigation program serves families that would not otherwise qualify for (or be able to access) intensive mental health services. These families often present with a myriad of challenges including housing, financial assistance, domestic violence and legal services in addition to needing (in many cases), significant mental health services.The mental health services offered by private insurers is very limited and creates a hardship and/or barrier for these families.Systems Navigators meet with each family to assess needs and then are able to directly connect them with mental health providers (on-site) at the Frederick County Mental Health Association and/or to other local providers.In addition to the mental health service linkage, Systems Navigators assess and address other issues and provide direct referrals to community services providers. Examples of community referrals includes connections with eviction prevention services, resources for food, safety shelters for domestic violence cases, etc. Finally, Systems Navigators remain with each family for continued case coordination for (on average) 60 – 90 days.

Systems and Family Navigators provide intensive supports and targeted linkages to overburdened families, guiding them through the myriad of human services to ensure access to services that meet each family’s unique needs. Families may be referred through Single Point of Access, particularly when it is deemed that the family’s needs surpass phone-based linkage to resources and referrals.

Frederick County families with children aged 0-21 with intensive needs in any life domain.

Disconnected Youth, Incarceration, Youth Homelessness