Coordinated Specialty Care

Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) is an evidence-based approach to the delivery of services and supports for serious mental illness that can be implemented on its own or as part of an existing program.

CSC is most effective with young people when they get help early.

• Shared decision-making
• Individualized care
• Team approach

• Care coordination
• Medication management
• Psychotherapy
• Supported employment and education
• Family education and support
• Peer and parent peer support

Purpose – Participants are supported in having independence and resources to reach their full potential.
Empowerment – Participants have voice and choice so that their journey is grounded in their goals and values.
Relationships – Participants benefit from meaningful connections with service providers, friends, family members, and others focused on helping them live their best lives.
Outreach – Providers educate the community so that young people who need help know when and how to access it early.
Community – Services and supports take place in the most inclusive, responsive, and accessible settings and draw on the connection of family, friends, and natural supports.
Collaboration – Team members and participants work together. They share responsibility for creating, following through, and reviewing a treatment plan

• Early treatment means better outcomes.
• Treatment focuses on support, relationships, and connection to community.
• Acknowledging and supporting a young person’s interests, goals, and dreams while addressing mental health needs helps them maintain or improve their
quality of life and relationships.
• Integration of education, employment, community, therapy, and medication honors the young person as a unique individual.