Child and Family Services, Inc., Adoption Program

My child’s therapist left. I expressed interest multiple times to continue services prior to her leaving and after the last session. A few days later, I received a letter stating if I did not respond in 10 days, that they would end my son’s services.

I reached out again. Left a voicemail and spoke to front office staff. I was told we would be contacted to set up the new appointment.

Less than a week later, I received a phone called being told my son could not longer attend his other services because I did not make appointment.

It has been frustrating. They recently changed to a new scheduling system which has caused other issues. Before we were able to have the same time each week, after the change we were unable to.

They ask what barriers keep patients from receiving treatment, it is the issues above. Disorganization and lack of communication related to services.

I make sure to request that staff document in the chart when we have communication because I don’t want my sons care to be impacted,

I’ve had issues with this agency related to my child’s other services when a clinician said one thing then documented another. Mistakes happen. We’ve all been there. But, with how difficult mental health access is, it’s distressing to have issues that are avoidable.

Overall, the clinicians and providers have been wonderful. It seems like there can be a better system on verifying if patients want to continue treatment. I would have signed a paper if needed. Sent an email. Anything to make sure services would continue. There are many people involved that things can get missed:

I just hope the scheduling system gets better. Once school starts again, changing appointment times will be hassle. Schools prefer a set time especially for weekly appointments. With a set time, I could get one note to cover all appointments. My son would miss only a small amount of school. Now I’ll need to get a note after each appointment. And, juggle having to make sure we don’t schedule during an important event during school hours or during a class my child enjoys. If a client is seen weekly, it would be better to book two weeks at a time. It would disturb the clients routine less. And improve a barrier to care.

When you first walk in and approach the reception staff at the "check-in" window, you will find that the receptionists are exceptionally friendly and diligent.

Once you become a regular client, they (the receptionists) will actually recognize you and know who you are, and they will likely engage with you personally. You won't feel like you're being treated like "just another number..." They will make you feel comfortable right from the start... You are important!

The clinicians and therapists at CFS are certified & qualified, helpful, friendly, and they really do care about the services they provide. Most of the clients that go to Child & Family Services continue their therapy regularly, and are satisfied. Just ask another client!

The only down side is that presently (as of August 2019), there is only one child/family psychiatrist available. However, they are searching for and looking to hire new psychiatrists to cater to individual adults and clients.
(*Some services can be provided via individual remote video conferencing "Telepsychiatry" consultation.)

You will have to call CFS directly for more information.

Very nice people.

Dr Marcus and my psychologist Bridgette are both kind and careing people. They listen well and offer sound and thoughtful advise. I would recommend them both to anyone. The clerical staff also does a great job as well.