Behavioral Health
EP!C Behavioral Health
At EP!C we provide behavioral health (BH) services to support individuals who have both intellectual/developmental disabilities and mental health needs. EP!C is formally recognized and enrolled through the Department of Health and Family Services (HFS) as a Behavioral Health Clinic (BHC). Through the BHC model, EP!C provides access to licensed behavioral health professionals who focus specifically on the mental health needs of the individuals we support. Through integrated assessments and person-directed treatment planning, high-quality therapy and counseling services are available. The behavioral health services are key to helping individuals:
More About Our Behavioral Health Services
By offering behavioral health support services at EP!C, we are contributing to our mission by enriching lives by providing an integrated and holistic approach to individuals with I/DD. Approximately 60% of individuals supported by EP!C have a mental health diagnosis.
Under the leadership of a professional who is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LSCW) and Licensed Practitioner of the Healing Arts (LPHA), EP!C’s behavioral health staff is comprised of a group of mental health professionals and master’s level counselors who have the training and passion to support those we serve at EP!C with compassionate and individuated care. Behavioral health services spans across individuals who take part of community day service, employment services, educational services, and our various living programs such as community integrating living and host home-provided living.
In addition to counseling and therapy that is delivered by the behavioral health counseling staff, EP!C provides specialized support through applied behavior analysis (ABA). This service is delivered by Board Certified Behavioral Analysts (BCBAs). ABA refers to a set of scientific principles that focus on how behaviors change, how behaviors are affected by the environment, as well as assessing how learning takes place. A BCBA is trained and skilled to study the behavior of individuals with developmental disabilities. After the analysis phase, the BCBA creates an individualized plan to improve problematic behavior. The BCBA then trains others to implement the plan through a modeling and teaching approach.
The well-rounded and scientific approach entails the reinforcing of the desired behaviors, decreasing of unwanted behaviors and ultimately leading to the improvement of key daily living activities such as, but not limited to, money management, workforce skills, daily chores, and overall mindfulness.
For more information contact Lori Cheek-Gillroy, Sr. Director of Behavioral Health Services at 309-324-0617 or lcheekgilroy@epicci.org.
