Kids in Transition (KIT)
KIT is a short-term (2-6 months) diagnostic, stabilization and treatment planning program designed to address the long-term needs of children and youth who pose diagnostic and placement questions or concerns. Central to KIT is the development of a Family Support Team in which family members are key players. The team is composed of natural supports (e.g. family and extended family members, family friends, and professional). Facilitated by the KIT therapist/case manager, the Family Support Team meets 1-2 times monthly, to identify family needs, and to generate solutions and plans to address those needs. The KIT therapist helps coordinate services as needed, and in concert with Team recommendations, provides a comprehensive assessment.
Begun in 1991, KIT was a proposal to Department of Child & Family Services (DCFS) by the Luther Child Center to address a continuing need they saw in their practice. Prior to the KIT program, a child would have to be hospitalized if there was a question of diagnosis or placement. Luther proposed a less stressful, yet effective option; have the child evaluated in the home by a mental health specialist. DCFS agreed and the program was born. It is the only program of its kind in the State of Washington.
A KIT therapist may spend 4-8 hours a week in face-to-face contact, and many more hours working on developing the resource connections and coordinating services. Their kids don't fit the norm; they see unusual diagnoses and backgrounds.
To be successful, a KIT therapist must have a sense of humor and be flexible in scheduling their time. They need to have an ability to question what's already been written about the child, be independent workers, and most importantly, be able to develop a rapport quickly with the family. Therapists must be comfortable working out of their element - most meetings are in families' homes. KIT therapists have extensive experience working with children and families, including Family Preservation Services (FPS), special education, and working with schools and Native American tribes.
KIT is a unique program. It is an opportunity to really look at a case;
something that doesn't often happen elsewhere.
- intensive case management,
- in-home parent training,
- short-term therapy,
- full psychiatric services,
- connection with ongoing services,
- monthly parent training and support groups,
- behavior management training, and
- coordination of natural supports within the community.
For more information, call 425-349-8480 and ask for the referral coordinator.