MYS Programs:

The Mutchmor Program addresses the needs of young people and families who are struggling to manage their aggressive behaviours in the community. It is our belief that families have the ability and the resources to solve their issues, but may be stuck in patterns of behaviour that are not helpful. Therefore, we try to create an environment in the program where staff, the young person and families work cooperatively in the creation of service plans and goals. While we recognize that the young person will exhibit a wide range of difficulties, all programming is designed primarily to address the presenting aggressive behaviours and attitudes.

The Mutchmor team works from a non-power based belief system. The emphasis is on respect, cooperation and participatory decision making. All interventions attempt to provide opportunities for youth and families to develop legitimate ways to gain power and control in their lives. A primary focus for staff is to assist the young person in developing the skills needed to make good decisions and to take responsibility for himself. We focus more on the future than the past, and highlight the areas of strength in the youth and their family.

Since safety is of utmost concern for both staff and youth, there is no tolerance for aggressive oriented behaviour, language, or attitudes. The emphasis on safety, and on feeling safe, underlies all aspects of the program. Policies and procedures have been specifically developed to respond to aggressive behaviours in a way that ensures the safety of youth and staff.

The program is delivered within a 6-bed shift staffed setting. The staff team is comprised of Youth Care Workers, a Program Manager and a Therapist. We also use volunteers to act as mentors and role models for the youth, which helps promote an interest and connection in the community. We believe in a competency-based model where Youth Care Workers are actively engaged in every aspect of the treatment program. Youth Care Workers are trained and supported in working from a clinical perspective. In addition to direct work with individuals, groups and families, the Therapist's main responsibilities focus on working with the Program Manager and the staff team to assist them in offering more effective clinical service to youth and their families.

As part of the referral process, the Therapist, Program Manager and Senior Youth Care Worker assess each youth referred. During this process, the young person's willingness to participate in the program is assessed and decisions are made on an individual basis regarding admission to the program.