ALLIES CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child or family needs help?
Often families are not sure if there is really a problem or if their
child is just going through a developmental phase. When there are family
issues such as divorce, death, substance abuse or other problems,
parents/relatives sometimes wonder whether children are aware of the
problem. If your child has trouble relating with parents, siblings, peers
or other authority figures; restricted mood or frequent mood swings;
problems in learning, attention or memory; or behaviors such as fears,
tantrums, aggression or withdrawal, this may be a sign that there is an
emotional or behavioral problem. Changes in sleep patterns, eating,
friends and activities also may indicate that a child is struggling with
emotional, behavioral, learning or family problems. Seeking assistance
and an evaluation early may help to keep problems from getting worse.
How do I get an appointment with ALLIES?
ALLIES Child and Family Services will accept a variety of referrals,
including those from families, schools, physicians, social service
agencies, DYFS and the courts. Those interested in learning more about
ALLIES can contact the ALLIES Director for more specific information.
To arrange an appointment for the child and his/her parent or guardian,
contact the Assessment Center at (908) 253-3165. Concerns, past history
and treatment options will be discussed with an intake worker. The intake
worker will present the information to a disposition team within 48
hours, and an assignment will be given to the appropriate therapist.
Am I eligible for Services?
Children from birth through adolescence and their families are eligible
for mental health services at our center. Richard Hall Community Mental
Health Center, which accepts Medicaid and a variety of other insurances,
will provide services on a sliding fee scale for those who are uninsured.
Where do I go if my child is in serious crisis?
If you are involved in therapy at ALLIES and a crisis arises for a child,
adolescent or family member, you may contact your therapist to see
whether there is something that can be done in treatment to stabilize the
issue. If the crisis involves a risk of suicide, or harm to self or
others, it is best to contact PESS (Psychiatric Emergency Screening
Services) at Somerset Medical Center, located at 110 Rehill Avenue
Somerville. The phone number for the 24-hour hotline is (908) 526-4100.
Richard Hall Community Mental Health Center
500 North Bridge Street
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Phone: 908-725-2800
Toll-free number: 1-888-744-4417
Fax: 908-704-1790
Email:
MentalHealth@co.somerset.nj.us
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