Children, Youth & Family Services

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Who We Are

At United Counseling Service, we are dedicated to supporting children, youth, and families through a comprehensive system of care. Our goal is to help families build strong, positive relationships, enhance personal self-esteem, and develop essential social skills that foster lifelong success.

We offer a wide range of home- and community-based services designed to meet the unique needs of children and adolescents. By providing guidance, resources, and a safe, welcoming environment, we encourage growth, development, and overall well-being.

Our programs focus on promoting both physical and mental health while nurturing positive connections within families and communities. Through collaboration and compassionate care, we empower children and youth to thrive and reach their full potential.

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Quick Links

Services and Supports

Intensive Services

Our Intensive Services provide specialized support for children and families who need a higher level of care. These programs are designed to address mental health and behavioral challenges while keeping families connected to their communities.

UCS offers a variety of community-based programs that provide flexible, individualized support for children and families. These services are designed to meet each family’s unique needs while promoting growth and stability.

We collaborate with schools, the Department for Children and Families (DCF), and other community agencies to create coordinated service plans (CSPs) that address the needs of each child and family. Parents are actively involved in the planning process to ensure the best possible outcomes. We also develop Family Service Plans (FSPs) to provide additional support.

Learn more about Act 264.

The IOP provides structured, group-based treatment for children in kindergarten through 6th grade with significant mental health concerns. This program serves as a community-based alternative to inpatient or residential care, helping children receive intensive support while remaining at home.

PUCK is a crisis stabilization program for youth up to age 18 in Bennington County experiencing a mental health or behavioral crisis. It offers immediate support to help children and families navigate urgent situations safely and effectively.

Specialized Services for Youth and Teens

Our specialized programs support youth and young adults as they navigate important life transitions, build independence, and create meaningful connections. Each program is designed to promote well-being, education, employment, and strong community ties.

In partnership with the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF), the Compass program serves at-risk youth ages 16 – 22 and their families. The program focuses on enhancing well-being, supporting education and employment goals, fostering permanent connections, and creating stable living environments.

JOBS is an innovative case management program for at-risk young adults ages 16 – 22. It helps participants develop strong work ethics, explore career opportunities, and build relationships with community partners. The program creates a supportive bridge between youth and their communities to encourage long-term success in the workforce.

Teens4Change is a peer-led group that empowers youth to connect with one another, make friends, and strengthen community ties. Participants gain leadership skills, volunteer in the community, and help plan events such as the annual UCS Bennington Youth Summit for youth in Bennington County.

YIT supports teens and young adults facing mental health or substance use challenges as they transition into adulthood. The program helps participants build the skills and resources they need to achieve independence and reach their personal goals.

Therapeutic Programming

At United Counseling Service, we provide a range of therapeutic programs designed to support children, teens, and their families through structured, engaging, and meaningful experiences. Throughout the year, we offer specialized group activities such as cooking classes, grief support, art therapy, and more, giving participants opportunities for growth, connection, and healing.

A highly structured after-school program for children ages 5–12, focused on helping participants build essential social, emotional, and life skills through therapeutic and recreational activities.

Parent Respite – Offers children supervised recreational time while relieving parents and caregivers.

Community Support – Provides assistance for children and teens facing emotional or behavioral challenges, both in school and in the community.

Our therapeutic summer camp programs create safe, supportive environments where children and youth can learn, build confidence, and have fun:

Camp Be A Kid – A therapeutic summer camp experience for children ages 5 – 12

Northshire Camp – A therapeutic day camp for children ages 5 – 12

Adventure Camp – Designed for youth ages 13 – 21, offering outdoor activities and personal growth opportunities

Intensive Outpatient Camp – A structured, therapeutic summer program for children ages 5 – 12 who need additional support

Our Children, Youth & Family Services team provides a wide range of therapeutic supports to help children, teens, and their families thrive. We take a compassionate, individualized approach to care, offering services that address emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs.

Our psychiatric team offers evaluations, medication management, and ongoing support to help children and adolescents achieve emotional well-being. We work closely with families, schools, and other providers to create comprehensive treatment plans that meet each child’s unique needs.

Case managers provide individualized guidance and coordination of care, ensuring that children and families have access to the resources, supports, and services they need.

We provide counseling for children, teens, and families. Services include individual therapy, family therapy, and group counseling to address a wide range of concerns.

School-Based Services in Bennington County

United Counseling Service partners with local schools across Bennington County to provide students with essential emotional and behavioral support. Our services are tailored to meet each child’s unique needs, focusing on their strengths and promoting positive growth.

Behavior Intervention Services – targeted strategies to support positive behaviors and create a successful learning environment.

School-Based Clinicians – licensed professionals who work directly in schools to provide counseling, support, and intervention for students and families