Children, Youth and Family Services It is estimated that as many as one in five children and adolescents may have a mental health disorder that can be identified and require treatment. However, through early intervention and treatment, children and youth with complex emotional and behavioral needs can live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives.  The Department of Mental Health (DMH) offers a broad range of treatment and support services to children between the ages of 5 and 17 and their families through community based mental health providers located in neighborhoods throughout the District. Services include individual, group, and family counseling, diagnostic assessment, medication management, community support and crisis response through an array of intensive home, school and community based services.  These services emphasize helping youth develop problem solving and coping skills that focus on strengthening family and community support systems to avoid out-of-home and institutional placement.  DMH also operates a psycho-educational program for children who require an integration of clinical services in day care or a school environment. To select a community based mental health provider that best meets your needs, please review the list of community based mental health providers or call the ACCESS Helpline at 1-888-793-4357 and talk with a mental health professional who will guide you through the process. Emergency Mobile Crisis Services The children’s mobile crisis service provides a rapid, on the scene response to children facing an emotional or mental health crisis.  A team of mental health specialists will come to the home or school to stabilize a child and help families manage the crisis. Crisis beds for youth ages 6 to 21 also are available for up to a 14 day stay as an alternative to psychiatric inpatient hospitalization and to avoid disruption of foster home placement. The mobile crisis service is available 24/7 by calling (202) 561-7000 or the Access Helpline at 1-888-793-4357. Psycho-Education Program In partnership with the Public Schools, DMH operates programs that provide clinical services to children.  The Therapeutic Nursery is a specialized preschool program for children ages three to five with emotional and behavioral problems that may interfere with success in a regular preschool or day care setting.  The Jackie Robinson Center for Excellence provides a supportive school environment for children ages six to twelve identified with emotional, behavioral and academic difficulties. To enroll, a child must be referred by the Public Schools Division of Special Education. School Mental Health Program DMH operates a school based mental health program in public and public charter schools that offers prevention, early intervention and clinical services to youth and their families.  The Healthy Start Program The Healthy Start Program raises awareness of the effects of maternal depression and identifies and links services for at-risk families.  Mental health clinicians provide services and support to pregnant women and women with children up to four years of age living in Wards 5-8 who suffer from depression during and/or around pregnancy and the postpartum period.   The Department of Mental Health Child and Family Services Division is located at 821 Howard Road SE.  For more information, call (202) 698-1838 or the ACCESS Helpline on 1-888-793-4357.