Family-driven means families have a primary decision making role in the care of their own children as well as the policies and procedures governing care for all children in their community, state, tribe, territory and nation (source: National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health)

Monroe County’s System of Care has moved away from the traditional philosophy, which viewed mental health and other service providers as the sole “experts” of a youth’s care, and instead recognizes the inherent value and insights a family member has with regard to what is “right” and “good” for their child and family when developing a service plan. 

It also means that the family, along with the youth, has a voice in defining what “successful” outcomes are for their child and family.

Being trauma-informed means having a basic understanding of how trauma impacts the life of an individual seeking services.  Trauma-informed systems, organizations, programs, and services are based on an understanding of the vulnerabilities or triggers of trauma survivors that traditional service delivery approaches may (unknowingly) aggravate, and seek to improve these services and programs so they can become more supportive and avoid re-traumatization.

It recognizes the need to work in a collaborative way with family, youth, community, friends, and with human services agencies in a manner that will empower consumers.

Simply defined as a respect for and acceptance of difference in others. This includes, but is not limited to, respect for and understanding of ethnic, racial, cultural, religious, and other groups, as well as their histories, beliefs, languages, and value systems and having (or building) the capacity to expand on this knowledge and integrate it into all areas – policies, organizational structures, staffing, interventions, financing, and evaluation of results.

Where there used to be a “one size fits all” approach to interventions, therapies, and treatments, emphasis is placed on getting to know the youth and the family on a deeper level (building a trusting relationship) and within the context of their environment and their background. 

Defined as having mental health and related services and supports based within the family’s neighborhood and community. This includes services and supports that might be considered “non-traditional” services, such as music lessons at a neighbor’s home as a form of music therapy. Having services and supports in a family’s neighborhood recognizes that families and youth do better when they’re in a familiar environment.