Child Guidance Center of Southern CT, Inc.

Our clinicians serve children, ages three to 18, who struggle with a range a range of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, developmental delays, and trauma. By providing a range of clinic-based diagnostic assessment and treatment services for children and adolescents, our clinicians strive to achieve the following goals: (1) reduce problems that interfere with daily functioning; (2) mitigate harmful effects of emotional problems and trauma on future development; and (3) increase parent confidence and competence in addressing the unique needs of their child

At the initial appointment, we conduct interviews with the child and parents to assess the child's development, family history, culture and environment. Developmental assessments and neuropsychological evaluations children clarify more complex diagnoses, delays and disabilities. After identifying the needs, the child, family and clinician collaborate in developing a comprehensive treatment plan that outlines a timeline of goals and objectives. The plan may include individual, group or family therapy, medication, or other specialized evidence-based treatments. CGC clinicians are active participants at regular meetings such as Planning and Placement Team meetings with school personnel, advocating for appropriate special education services and supports. To alleviate any stressors that may hinder a child's treatment progress, we may connect parents with a CGC case manager who assists families in accessing community resources to help with issues as employment, housing, addiction, or abuse.

CGC is the only Enhanced Care Clinic for children in the greater-Stamford area, providing treatment for the very young as well as high-risk teens. As the state's designated Mobile Crisis provider for Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, and Stamford, our clinicians, trained in youth suicide and violence prevention conduct immediate phone and off-site assessments of calls transferred from the state 211 hotline. The powerful synergy created by multi-disciplinary teams of clinicians and supervisors ensures kids benefit from specialized clinical expertise, regular interaction with highly-trained staff, and coordinated services to address health, developmental, educational and social needs. Monitoring and follow-up ensures those with complex issues and victims of abuse and neglect receive timely and effective services. We are committed to ensuring that services are accessible for low income, un- and under-insured families, and to providing culturally and linguistically-appropriate support for our community, never turning away a family due to ability to pay.

CGC’s greatest accomplishment is our proven track record of helping children and families overcome the emotional and behavioral mental health problems that brought them to us. Our talented leadership, well-credentialed staff, and evidence-based programs assure that CGC provides the highest quality mental health services to our clients and their families. Our clinical psychology doctoral training program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). The program provides high quality training for students pursuing a PhD or PsyD in clinical psychology. APA Accreditation is a prestigious recognition of professional achievement, providing the assurance that an agency is committed to the highest standards in its professional psychology training.