Pathways (Independent Living Focus)

Pathways is a Group Care Intensive Services (GCIS) program dedicated to meeting therapeutic needs of youth while simultaneously developing independent living skills. The program serves males ages 15-21 and provides 24-hour awake supervision with a 1:5 staff to client ratio. The goal of the program is to prepare youth for eventual transition into an independent setting through interactive instruction and real-world experience.

We provide for all needs of the youth while supporting them in their journey towards independence. Experiential learning based on the youth’s level of maturity and responsibility is emphasized.  The program utilizes a comprehensive curriculum comprised of individual and group instruction in areas such as money management, housing, employment, nutrition/culinary arts, social issues, health/ hygiene, transportation and community resources.

Clients are instructed in the process for obtaining vital records and assisted with acquiring any missing vital documents. Clients are educated about the importance of money management and assisted with opening a bank account. Clients receive hands-on instruction in meal planning, preparation and nutrition.  Awareness and utilization of relevant community resources is stressed as a tool to meet client needs. Pathways has partnered with a local drivers’ training program to assist clients with obtaining a driver’s license. Clients are regularly assessed for medical, dental and vision needs and connected with follow-up health care.

Pathways clients are supported by the program in completing their education through various community partners such as Anderson School District 5, Adult Education GED program, South Carolina Department Vocational Rehabilitation and Tri-County Technical College. Tutoring and educational credit recovery assistance are also available to assist clients in reaching educational goals through our Title One department.

Pathways clients are encouraged to work in the community once they reach behavioral and maturity levels indicated for community employment. Program staff support clients in obtaining skill level appropriate jobs in the community. Once employed, staff provide transportation to work and counsel the youth regarding ongoing vocational skill development. Each client participates in a Casey Life Skills Vocational Assessment to gauge interests and aptitude for future career goals.

We address the therapeutic needs of our clients through intensive case management including assessment of needs, individualized care planning, linkage to resources and monitoring of progress toward goals. Each client meets weekly with a master’s level therapist employed by the agency and trained in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Clients also have access to the agency psychiatrist as needed for medication assessment and monitoring. Anderson Behavioral Health partners with New Foundations to provide onsite substance abuse assessment and treatment for clients.