Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS), previously known as the
“Wrap Around program” is a short-term, intensive program for children from birth up to age 21.
The philosophy of this program is to encompass or ‘wrap around’ the child with care and services
where they are needed. To achieve that goal, services are provided in the home, school or day
care—wherever the child encounters challenges that need to be addressed.
Why is BHRS So Successful?
The Barber National Institute provides Behavioral Services to more than 200 children and adolescents in Erie, Crawford, Warren and Forest counties. A high percentage successfully complete their treatment plans within 12 months to achieve success in school and other activities.
Most of our behavior specialists at the Barber National Institute have achieved national certification in applied behavior analysis, or ABA. ABA is the only scientifically proven approach for helping children to make lasting behavior change. It is effective at teaching children appropriate ways for expressing emotions and needs, and achieving success at home and in school.
Our behavior specialists also work closely with parents and teachers so that all caregivers are using consistent, effective, research-based strategies to foster positive behaviors. The Barber National Institute sets itself apart by collecting and tracking measurable data to scientifically demonstrate positive behavior changes.
How to get started:
The referral for the BHRS Program can be made by a parent. To request a referral, call the Barber National Institute at (814) 453-7661 ext 6801, or Erie County Care Management at (814) 451-8400.
An initial meeting with the Person-Centered Planning Team will be held which will include school representatives, family members, and other appropriate individuals and agencies involved in the child’s care. If services with a Therapeutic Support Staff (TSS) are requested, this recommendation will be forwarded to the State Dept. of Public Welfare or the Erie County Department of Human Services and Value Behavioral health for approval.
Beginning Your Services
A Behavior Specialist Consultant will arrange a time to come to your home for an initial assessment. The BSC will ask you questions about when your child’s behaviors occur and how you have tried to respond to them in the past. Their goal is to determine why these behaviors occur and develop a successful treatment plan to change them.
If a TSS is part of your child’s program, they will start out spending several shifts “just playing” with your child and getting to know what they like and dislike. We call this time “pairing up with reinforcement.” As directed by the treatment plan, the TSS will then begin working on effective strategies to decrease negative behaviors and increase positive behaviors.
About Your Services
- State regulations specify that the BHRS staff:
- May not provide personal care, child care (babysitting), or respite services in the home or community
- May not serve as a classroom or academic aide in school settings.
- May not provide transportation or deliver medication to the child or family.
In addition, staff must always work with a parent, teacher or other adult caretaker present.
