The purpose of Intensive Family Support Services is to improve the overall functioning and quality of life of families with relatives living with serious mental illness. Family members and professionals work collaboratively to provide each family with knowledge, skills, and support, which they identify as useful to a family's overall functioning and sense of control.

Individual In-Home/Community Family Consultations
Specially educated, experienced and compassionate IFSS staff will meet with families and individuals in their home, or if they prefer a community setting to discuss IFSS services, provide consultation and information at times and days convenient for family members.

Psycho-Education Workshops
Various workshops will be presented which assist with educating families on topics such as the bio-neurological aspects and symptoms of mental disorders, hospitalization and relapse, coping and stress reduction strategies, adjusting to changes in the family upon a loved one’s diagnosis, education about the mental health system and the promotion of continuity of care, self-care, substance use, and estate planning. These groups are open to all, are free, and take place at Pluckemin Presbyterian Church every Wednesday night from 7-8:30 PM. 

Medication Education
Educate and teach families the role of medication in the management of mental illness, including discussions of the major drug classes and their therapeutic benefits and side effects.

Family Support Groups
Increase families' social support network to reduce isolation. Families will share concerns of social functioning to promote continuity care for the family member living with a serious mental illness. Professionals will provide strategic intervention on a case by case basis. These groups are open to the caregivers of a loved one with a mental illness and meet every Monday night at Pluckemin Presbyterian Church from 6-8:30 PM.

Advocacy
Case management and peer support will help families navigate and access available service providers and community resources. Provide information on rights and protections to people living with mental illness.

Linkage to Services
IFSS refers families to outside providers as needed.

Respite Activities
Our clients are also offered respite activities to provide a chance to relax, connect, and recharge.

Eligibility	IFSS program is open to ALL Somerset County families and friends of adult individuals living with mental health illness.
Age Groups	Adults
Health Services	Behavioral / Mental Health Anxiety Depression Mental Health
Payment Options	Free
Areas Served	Somerset County

Last Updated: 05/03/23