Dispositional Alternatives Program (DAP) of

Counseling and case management designed to help at-risk youth succeed

The Dispositional Alternatives Program (DAP) comprises the Youth Services department at Family & Children’s Service. DAP is a community-based, family-centered program that provides comprehensive, supportive services to youth, aged seven to 18, and their families. Through counseling, case management, enrichment activities, family meetings, referrals, and follow-up services, DAP fosters positive changes in behavior and attitude for youth who are having difficulties at home, school, or in the community. DAP family case workers assist the entire family and serve as liaisons between the family and the school, court system, and other involved agencies.

The overall goal for each DAP client is to reduce the risk of out-of-home placement. To that end, each client’s intervention plan is tailored to the need of the youth and his or her family. Special attention is paid to age-appropriate mental health, educational, and recreational needs as well as provision of family support.