By Sama Marwan ,
Troy, NY – Northern Rivers Family of Services officially launched its first Youth Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program in Rensselaer County this week, marking a major step forward in community-based mental health care for youth.
What is Youth ACT?
Youth ACT offers intensive, in‐home and community‐based mental health treatment for young people (ages 10–21) facing serious emotional challenges that disrupt daily functioning. Services include:
Medication evaluation & management
Individual clinical counseling & therapy
Family counseling
School and employment support
24/7 on-call phone assistance
Outreach in homes, schools, and community venues
Funding & Capacity
Funded by a five-year, $15 million contract from the NY State Office of Mental Health
Initially serving up to 28 youths in the region
Why It Matters
Delivered where youth live and feel safe: Brynn LaBounty, Program Director, emphasized the advantage of providing services in familiar settings—like staying in a youth’s home or local community spaces—not traditional office appointments
Reduces hospitalizations: State Sen. Jake Ashby and County Executive Steven McLaughlin highlighted the program’s potential to reduce strain on emergency and inpatient services, while offering families better local support
Supports broader state effort: Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced $4.5 million to expand Youth ACT teams statewide, indicating strong legislative backing
Program Vision
Use multidisciplinary teams for personalized, holistic care, helping stabilize youth and keep them in their communities
Engage families, schools, and agencies to support long-term recovery and independence
Offer trauma-informed, culturally responsive interventions that empower youth to thrive
How to Refer
Referrals are managed through Regional Single Point of Access (SPOA) committees, which determine eligibility. More information—and referral contacts—are available on Northern Rivers’ website
