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‘Better Together’ Combines Modalities for Treating People with Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions

ŷ����b��Ƭ is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking “Better Together” therapy model, an integrated clinical framework designed to enable individuals whose mental health challenges interfere with their ability to live and thrive in their community. The model combines the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with traditional mental health services to provide a more effective, holistic care model for youth and adults living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (IDD), or high-risk externalizing behaviors.

Recognizing the challenges present in treating people with co-occurring conditions, the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health approached ŷ����b��Ƭ in 2019 to help design a more inclusive, comprehensive treatment model that integrates principles and best practices from other treatment models. ŷ����b��Ƭ designed Better Together in 2020 and began utilizing the model on a cohort of youth and adults with a range of complex mental health diagnoses and high-intensity behavior. The results have been positive.

“The Better Together model provides wraparound services that engage participants and their families in a range of therapeutic interventions, including family therapy, individual skill-building, psychoeducation, coaching, case management, and crisis stabilization,” said Kayte Russell, Senior Director of Children’s Mental Health Services at ŷ����b��Ƭ.

Historically, mental health services alone have often proven insufficient for individuals with complex conditions, such as ASD or IDD, or those who exhibit severe, high-risk behaviors. The Better Together model addresses these gaps by embedding ABA methodologies alongside mental health treatment in all aspects of service delivery and creating a care team that includes Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), mental health clinicians, and family members. By engaging family members, we’re able to alter the participant’s environment creating more opportunities for success when they use the skills they have learned.

“Each participant’s care team is determined by their unique needs and preferences, with input from clinicians, BCBAs, and family members. The approach is entirely person-centered, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability in treatment to meet the individualized goals of both participants and families,” said Russell.

The team develops a Community Support Plan for each participant, which includes clinical and behavioral therapy goals that support the participant’s efforts to acquire skills that can improve their quality of life, mental health, and overall well-being.

At its core, the Better Together model seeks to create a more inclusive, supportive community where every individual can lead a meaningful life with dignity and respect. By blending the strengths of ABA and mental health services, ŷ����b��Ƭ is redefining what is possible for individuals with co-occurring conditions and ensuring they have the tools and support needed to reach their full potential.

“We believe that when we work together as a team—clinicians, BCBAs, family members, and participants—we create an environment that fosters true growth and transformation,” said Patti Maguire, President and CEO of ŷ����b��Ƭ. “Our Better Together model ensures that everyone, no matter their diagnosis or challenges, has the opportunity to live a fulfilling life within their community,” said Maguire.

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