Youth Community Services (YCS)

Youth Community Services (YCS) is Pawnee’s comprehensive group of services and treatments that support children and teens with serious emotional disturbances (SED) and their families. Young people with SED have difficulty managing their emotions. They may internalize emotions causing self-destructive behavior or externalize them by striking out at others. Pawnee Mental Health offers individual/family therapy to help identify the feelings behind the behavior and learn and practice new skills. The ultimate goal is for each individual to function at home, in school, and in the community to their maximum ability. With appropriate treatment and support, children and teens can overcome the challenges of their illnesses to lead happy, productive lives.

Services Offered

Case Management

Coordinate care for children/adolescents, ensure goal-oriented services, find resources, manage crises, and provide face-to-face mental health interventions. (Available to all)

Community Based School Support / School Based Services

Collaboration between Pawnee and schools to provide mental health support for children/adolescents. Includes services delivered in the school setting. (Available to all)

Independent Living/Skills Building

Programs to help youth develop essential life skills for independence, including money management, self-care, and community participation. (Available to all)

Parent Peer Support

Support from caregivers with lived experience for families of children with SED; includes training, advocacy, and skill reinforcement. (Available to all)

Parent Support and Training

Educational and supportive services for parents or caregivers to enhance skills in managing their child’s mental health needs. (Available to all)

Personal Care Services

Assistance with daily living activities, supervision, and support for children and adolescents with additional emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges. (Available to all)

Psychosocial Rehabilitation

Group or individual activities to build social skills, problem-solving, and self-awareness for children/adolescents. (SED Waiver Only)

Respite Care

Planned breaks for families with a SED Waiver, giving parents/caregivers time to recharge while ensuring safe, supportive care for the child. (SED Waiver Only)

SED Waiver

Helps families cover the cost of many YCS programs. Pawnee staff assists with applications and explains how the waiver works. (SED Waiver Only)

Wraparound Facilitation

Coordinate individualized care planning, connect families to services, and ensure supports are aligned with the child’s needs across multiple systems. (SED Waiver Only)