Mental Health Blog

Through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, it’s been possible for low-income residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities to receive care remotely via telemental and telebehavioral health services through partner agencies. What can and can’t telehealth replace?

Given the early onset of many serious mental and psychological disorders, connecting to the proper youth mental health services is a must for our children and adolescents.

In PA, autistic adults often have difficulty connecting with the resources needed for a fuller life. Learn about ECCM’s more inclusive autism waiver program, the Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Waiver.

In parent-child interaction therapy, certified therapists coach parents on interactions with their child in real-time to reduce negative behaviors and strengthen the relationship. Find out why this therapy, originally used for disruptive behavior disorders, is increasingly being employed in autism early intervention plans. 

Like caring for ourselves, caring for others can be challenging. Care management careers are no different. However, if you enjoy collaborating in close tandem with others and affecting positive change, there may be no more rewarding occupation. Learn what makes care managers so unique and so valuable. 

67% of people experiencing homelessness have a mental health disorder, but serious mental illness is far rarer. See the 2024 JAMA and Erie County figures.

Understand the five domains of early childhood development (or human development) — physical, cognitive, communicative, socioemotional, and adaptive. Parents can better track their child's progress and spot deficiencies early, when intervention services have proven most effective. 

A residential treatment center (RTC) is a live-in health care facility providing intensive therapy, continuous supervision, and comprehensive support for individuals struggling with mental health issues, substance use disorders, or severe behavioral challenges. When navigating mental health or dependency crises, there are often occasions when an individual's specialized needs far exceed their or their family’s ability to provide adequate care. In these challenging cases, it can be highly beneficial—and sometimes absolutely essential—to consider admitting your loved one into a specialized residential treatment program.

An Individual Service Plan (ISP) lays the groundwork for caring for an individual with a developmental disability, such as autism. It is completed during the intake process to provide mental health services providers with a set of best practices centered around an individual’s (Person-Centered Planning) level of ability or functionality, as well as personal preferences, wants, and needs. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Individual Support Plan form clocks in at 34 pages. Here we break down each of the main sections of an individual service plan and what they are trying to accomplish.

Adolescence is a chaotic period for most people, but it can be especially trying for those struggling with cognitive or behavioral impairments. See if neuropsychological testing can benefit you or a loved one.