Integrating YES! into Existing CCS Service Models

CCS programs are guided by a collection of treatment processes, values, and practices intended to ensure that participants receive effective services. These foundations of effective mental health services are generally similar across the lifespan. Processes such as the assess/plan/implement/reassess cycle are universal. Additional guidance is provided by concepts such as recovery-oriented, resilience-focused, strengths-based, consumer-driven or family-driven, holistic, skill-oriented, etc. Each of these foundations contribute to positive outcomes. 

These foundations support implementation of a variety of unique practices. Some of these are age-specific, culturally-specific, or diagnostically-specific practices. Others like motivational interviewing and person-centered practices are more universally applicable.

Some practices require step-by-step implementation, prescribed numbers of sessions or implementation within specific contexts—individual sessions, family sessions, groups of individuals or families, etc.  Other practices, like person-centered practices and motivational interviewing, have more generalized application and can be used in a variety of ways throughout participation in services to address mental health or substance use conditions. 

The YES! model is a hybrid model.  The importance of understanding the effects of developmental processes and executive skills can be considered to be useful to anyone. This model is of particular value for young people. The implementation of YES! is designed specifically to be user-friendly to young people. It is designed to build upon the flexibility and sense of immediacy that characterize the lives of young people.  Implementation is designed around a process that addresses multiple developmental factors and can be implemented in a variety of ways by a variety of people and in a variety of settings.

The most obvious component of YES! is the Engage, Equip, and Empower Process. If implemented within the context of a sincere relationship with the young person, this process can be effective in it’s most rudimentary form. That means that almost anyone—with limited training—can be supportive of young people. This means helping a young person identify steps toward changing their lives and recognizing what the young person is already “doing right.”

The exciting thing about YES! generally, and the “3 Es process” specifically, is that one can become increasingly effective using this model as one better understands human development and the skills that support it.  With a better understanding, providers can better assess the challenges young people face, be more intentional in how they support young people, and better motivate them to invest in getting better.

Approaches and resources young people felt were most helpful.

Hear from young people regarding some of the evidence-based practices and what other groups and skills are preparing them for a successful future.