This comprehensive model of service supports optimizes independence, treatment, and community living for individuals with IDD and behavioral health needs. It promotes person-centered approaches and training for individuals, families and caregivers by applying core principles of positive psychology, utilization of therapeutic tools, provision of multi-modal clinical assessments, promoting enjoyable therapeutic recreational experiences and optimal utilization of existing resources through: Linkages with partners, engagement of service user, family, and other circles of support involvement; promotion of improved expertise across systems of care and the utilization of services designed to fill gaps.

Services are based upon a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment. The START model conceptualizes presenting problems within the context of the environment in which the person lives, works and interacts with those around them. The goal of the START program is to build capacity through relationships across service systems in order to help people remain on their homes and communities and enhance the ability of the community to best support them. START teams base their work and approaches on recognized best practices that together form the START models Guiding Principles.

SYC provides START Team in the Los Angeles County area.

Our Certified START team has undergone a rigorous review by the National Center for START ServicesTMQuality Assurance Department. Throughout the process, NCSS reviewers utilize quality assurance tools to ensure fidelity to START program certification standards, provide guidance, identify training needs, and promote reliability and consistency across the National START Network.