Benjamin Links - Information for our Clients

Information for our Clients

What To Expect - An outline of the Program

The program begins with an initial evaluation in order to learn more about the child and family that will be served. The initial evaluation also gives clients an opportunity to learn more about the program and ask any further questions about services. The meeting lasts for about 2 hours and the goal of the meeting is to discuss and design a program that meets the need of the child and family. A report is written afterwards giving recommendations for services along with short-term goals for intervention.

After parents have the opportunity to read over and agree with the program objectives, the intervention begins. The program content and duration is designed to meet the family and child's needs. The standard program lasts for approximately 3 months.

Each session lasts for about two hours. In the home, the first hour is spent 1:1 with the child. This helps the consultant learn more about the child and how the child best responds to intervention. The second hour is spent mainly with parents discussing questions and concerns regarding program resources, conducting parent training, and working on generalization. At the end of the program a progress report is written and consultation to transition current program to other local services will be provided. Families are requested to complete an evaluation at the end of the program to help improve and continue to provide excellent services for present and future families using Benjamin Links. Families are also welcome to seek consultation in the future when needed as the child and family's need continues to grow and change.

What Is Expected - The Importance of Participation

A major factor in the success of this particular program lies greatly on its emphasis on participation by parents and other family members. It is requested that parents commit approximately 10-hours a week targeting goals set by the program, using behavioral principles to improve interactions with their child, and following through on recommendation on obtaining services that will further assist their child's development.

To avoid long wait lists, the program requests that families see the program as a short-term transition until families can obtain other appropriate services. This way, the program is able to keep its wait list non-existent or minimal and accessible to all families interested as soon as possible. The help of families to actively seek other resources and services in addition to the services provided is strongly encouraged