Founded in 1912 by special education pioneer Helena Devereux, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is a national nonprofit partner for individuals, families, schools and communities, serving many of the most vulnerable members of our society. With over a century of dedicated service, Devereux has established itself as one of America’s premier behavioral healthcare organizations, providing innovative and compassionate care to individuals with complex needs.
Overview of Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health stands as a beacon of hope for families navigating the challenges of behavioral, emotional, and developmental disabilities. Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health employs more than 6,500 staff across 13 states, making it one of the largest nonprofit behavioral health organizations in the United States.
The organization’s mission centers on providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatment and support services to individuals across the lifespan who face significant behavioral, emotional, and developmental challenges. From early intervention programs for young children to transitional services for adults, Devereux offers a continuum of care designed to meet individuals where they are and help them achieve their fullest potential.
Core Service Areas and Specializations
Autism Spectrum Disorder Services
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health supports children and adults with autism spectrum disorder in the development of communication, social and independence skills needed to realize fulfilling, productive and socially connected lives. The organization’s autism programs are built on evidence-based practices, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and are designed to address the unique needs of individuals across the autism spectrum.
The autism services include intensive early intervention programs, school-based support, residential treatment, and transitional services for young adults. Each program incorporates individualized treatment planning, family involvement, and skill-building activities that promote independence and community integration.
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Programs
Devereux provides comprehensive services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, focusing on skill development, independence training, and community integration. These programs recognize that each person has unique strengths and challenges, requiring personalized approaches to support and treatment.
Services range from intensive residential programs to community-based support, allowing individuals to receive care in the least restrictive environment appropriate for their needs. The organization emphasizes person-centered planning, ensuring that each individual’s goals, preferences, and dreams guide their treatment and support plan.
Specialty Mental Health Services
The organization offers specialized mental health treatment for children, adolescents, and adults facing complex emotional and behavioral challenges. These services address a wide range of conditions, including trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and behavioral difficulties.
Treatment approaches incorporate trauma-informed care principles, recognizing the significant impact that traumatic experiences can have on development and behavior. The multidisciplinary treatment teams include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and other mental health professionals who work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care.
Educational Services
Devereux Georgia’s on-site AdvancED accredited school offers small class sizes and access to regular and special education services. Educational services are integrated throughout Devereux programs, ensuring that learning continues even while individuals receive intensive behavioral health treatment.
The educational approach recognizes that learning differences often accompany behavioral and emotional challenges, requiring specialized teaching strategies and individualized educational planning. Teachers work closely with clinical staff to ensure that educational goals align with treatment objectives.
Geographic Presence and Regional Programs
Eastern Pennsylvania – The Foundation
Eastern Pennsylvania is Devereux’s most concentrated and diverse region of service provision. The Pennsylvania operations serve as the organization’s flagship, offering the most comprehensive array of services and serving as a model for programs in other states.
Devereux Pennsylvania Children’s Services supports children, adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual and developmental disabilities through extensive array of services enables us to provide many service options ranging from intensive residential treatment programs and inpatient and outpatient services, to community-based services, and therapeutic foster care.
New Jersey Operations
Devereux New Jersey serves nearly 500 individuals with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences through a broad spectrum of treatment settings, including community-based homes and supported apartments and vocational training programs. The New Jersey programs emphasize community integration and supported living opportunities.
New York Services
Devereux New York provides a wide range of educational, clinical, residential and community-based programs and services to children and adults, ages 5 to 21, with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders. The New York operations focus particularly on transition-age youth, helping them develop the skills needed for adult independence.
Texas Programs
Devereux Texas provides residential services for adolescents, ages 14 to 17, with complex treatment needs. In addition, Devereux Texas offers a residential treatment program for adolescents, ages 8 to 17. The Texas operations specialize in serving adolescents with particularly complex behavioral and emotional needs.
Georgia Services
Established in 1973 at the invitation of Gov. Jimmy Carter, Devereux Georgia offers intensive residential treatment in a secure setting for youth who are facing significant emotional, behavioral and intellectual/developmental challenges, specialty foster care for children and families throughout the state, and residential group homes.
Florida Programs
Devereux Florida offers a wide range of comprehensive residential programs for children and adolescents, providing specialized treatment for youth with complex behavioral health needs in a therapeutic environment.
Treatment Approaches and Methodologies
Evidence-Based Practices
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is committed to using evidence-based treatment approaches that have been proven effective through rigorous research. These practices include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for autism spectrum disorders, trauma-informed care for individuals with histories of trauma, and positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) for managing challenging behaviors.
The organization continuously evaluates and updates its treatment methodologies based on the latest research and best practices in the field. This commitment to evidence-based care ensures that individuals receive the most effective treatments available.
Multidisciplinary Team Approach
Treatment at Devereux involves multidisciplinary teams that may include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, behavior analysts, special education teachers, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and other specialists. This collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of an individual’s needs are addressed comprehensively.g
Team members work together to develop and implement individualized treatment plans that address not only behavioral and emotional needs but also educational, medical, and social requirements. Regular team meetings ensure that treatment plans are continuously updated based on progress and changing needs.
Person-Centered Planning
All services at Devereux are built around person-centered planning principles, which place the individual and their family at the center of the treatment planning process. This approach recognizes that each person is unique and that effective treatment must be tailored to individual strengths, preferences, and goals.
Person-centered planning involves the individual, their family, and the treatment team in collaborative goal-setting and treatment planning. This ensures that treatment is meaningful and relevant to the individual’s life and aspirations.
Residential and Community-Based Services
Residential Treatment Programs
Devereux operates residential treatment facilities that provide 24-hour therapeutic support for individuals who require intensive intervention. These programs offer a structured, therapeutic environment where individuals can focus on developing the skills they need to succeed in less restrictive settings.
Residential programs incorporate therapeutic activities, educational services, life skills training, and recreational opportunities. The goal is always to help individuals develop the skills and independence needed to transition to less restrictive community settings.
Community-Based Services
Community-based services allow individuals to remain in their home communities while receiving the support they need. These services may include supported living programs, day services, vocational training, and community integration support.
Community-based services are designed to promote independence and community participation while providing the necessary support to ensure safety and success. These programs recognize that most individuals prefer to live in their own communities and work to make this possible.
Supported Living Programs
Supported living programs provide individuals with the assistance they need to live independently in their own homes or apartments. Support may include help with daily living skills, money management, transportation, and community integration.
These programs are highly individualized, with support levels varying based on each person’s needs and goals. The ultimate aim is to provide the minimum level of support necessary while maximizing independence and community participation.
Specialized Programs and Services
Foster Care and Adoption Services
Devereux provides specialized foster care and adoption services for children with complex behavioral and emotional needs. These programs recruit, train, and support foster and adoptive families who are prepared to care for children with significant challenges.
Support services for foster and adoptive families include ongoing training, respite care, crisis intervention, and therapeutic services for children. The goal is to create stable, nurturing families for children who might otherwise face placement instability.
Vocational and Employment Services
Vocational training and employment support services help individuals develop job skills and find meaningful employment in their communities. These programs recognize that employment is a key component of adult independence and community integration.
Services may include job coaching, skills training, job placement assistance, and ongoing employment support. Programs work with local employers to create job opportunities and provide the support needed for long-term employment success.
Crisis Intervention Services
Devereux provides crisis intervention services to help individuals and families manage behavioral health emergencies. These services are available 24/7 and may include mobile crisis response, crisis stabilization, and emergency placement services.
Crisis intervention services are designed to provide immediate support during emergencies while working to stabilize situations and connect individuals with appropriate ongoing services. The goal is to prevent more restrictive placements and keep individuals in their communities whenever possible.
Quality Assurance and Accreditation
Accreditation and Licensing
Devereux programs are accredited by recognized organizations and licensed by appropriate state agencies. Accreditation ensures that programs meet rigorous standards for quality and safety.
The organization maintains accreditation from organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and The Joint Commission. These accreditations require ongoing monitoring and continuous quality improvement.
Outcome Measurement
Devereux systematically measures treatment outcomes to ensure that services are effective and that individuals are making progress toward their goals. Outcome data is used to improve services and demonstrate the effectiveness of treatment approaches.
The organization collects data on various measures, including skill development, behavioral improvement, community integration, and quality of life indicators. This data informs treatment planning and program development.
Continuous Quality Improvement
Quality improvement is an ongoing process at Devereux, with regular review of policies, procedures, and outcomes. The organization is committed to continuously improving its services based on data, feedback, and best practices.
Quality improvement initiatives may focus on specific treatment approaches, operational processes, or overall program effectiveness. All staff are involved in quality improvement efforts, ensuring that improvement is a shared responsibility.
Family and Caregiver Support
Family Involvement in Treatment
Families are recognized as essential partners in treatment at Devereux. Family involvement may include participation in treatment planning, family therapy sessions, parent training programs, and discharge planning.
The organization understands that families are often the most important support system for individuals and works to strengthen family relationships and coping skills. Family support continues even after formal treatment ends.
Parent and Caregiver Training
Devereux provides training and education for parents and caregivers to help them better support their family members. Training topics may include behavior management strategies, communication techniques, and advocacy skills.
Training programs are designed to be practical and applicable to daily life situations. Parents and caregivers learn strategies they can use at home and in the community to support positive behaviors and development.
Support Groups and Peer Networks
The organization facilitates support groups and peer networks for families and caregivers. These groups provide opportunities for families to connect with others facing similar challenges and to share experiences and strategies.
Peer support is recognized as a valuable component of the overall support system, providing emotional support and practical advice from others who understand the challenges involved.
Innovation and Research
Research Initiatives
Devereux is committed to advancing knowledge in the field of behavioral health through research initiatives. The organization participates in research studies and implements innovative treatment approaches based on emerging evidence.
Research activities may focus on treatment effectiveness, new intervention strategies, or program evaluation. Results are shared with the broader professional community to advance the field.
Technology Integration
The organization leverages technology to enhance service delivery and improve outcomes. This may include electronic health records, telehealth services, mobile applications for skill building, and data collection systems.
Technology is used to increase access to services, improve communication between team members, and provide innovative treatment tools. The organization continues to explore new technologies that can benefit the individuals it serves.
Staff Development and Training
Devereux invests significantly in staff development and training to ensure that all employees have the knowledge and skills needed to provide high-quality services. Training programs cover clinical practices, safety procedures, and person-centered approaches.
Ongoing professional development opportunities are provided to help staff stay current with best practices and advance their careers. The organization recognizes that well-trained, supported staff are essential for providing excellent care.
Community Partnerships and Collaboration
School District Partnerships
Devereux works closely with school districts to provide educational and behavioral support services for students with complex needs. These partnerships may involve consultation, direct services, or collaborative treatment planning.
School partnerships recognize that education is a key component of overall development and that behavioral health needs can significantly impact educational success. Collaborative approaches ensure that both educational and treatment goals are addressed.
Healthcare System Collaboration
The organization partners with healthcare systems, hospitals, and medical providers to ensure that individuals receive comprehensive care that addresses both behavioral health and medical needs.
Healthcare partnerships are particularly important for individuals with complex medical conditions that may impact their behavioral health treatment. Collaboration ensures coordinated care across all providers.
Community Organization Partnerships
Devereux partners with community organizations, advocacy groups, and other service providers to create comprehensive support networks for individuals and families.
Community partnerships help ensure that individuals have access to a full range of services and supports beyond what Devereux directly provides. These partnerships also help promote community acceptance and inclusion.
Admission Process and Getting Started
Referral Process
Referrals to Devereux can come from various sources, including families, schools, healthcare providers, and other agencies. The organization has intake specialists who work with potential clients and their families to determine appropriate services.
The referral process typically involves an initial screening to determine if Devereux services are appropriate, followed by a comprehensive assessment if services are indicated.
Assessment and Evaluation
Comprehensive assessments are conducted to understand each individual’s strengths, needs, and goals. Assessments may include psychological testing, behavioral observations, medical evaluations, and educational assessments.
Assessment results are used to develop individualized treatment plans and determine the most appropriate level of care. Families are involved throughout the assessment process.
Insurance and Funding
Devereux accepts various forms of insurance and works with families to identify funding sources for services. The organization has financial counselors who help families navigate insurance coverage and explore other funding options.
Funding sources may include private insurance, Medicaid, state funding, and sliding fee scales based on family income. The organization is committed to making services accessible regardless of families’ financial circumstances.
Looking Forward: Future Directions
Expanding Access to Services
Devereux continues to work on expanding access to services through new program development, geographic expansion, and innovative service delivery models such as telehealth.
The organization recognizes that many individuals and families who could benefit from services face barriers to access, and it is committed to reducing these barriers through creative solutions.
Advancing Evidence-Based Practices
The organization remains committed to advancing evidence-based practices through research, training, and program development. This includes exploring new treatment approaches and technologies that show promise for improving outcomes.
Devereux continues to evaluate and refine its treatment approaches based on outcome data and emerging research in the field.
Strengthening Community Integration
Future directions include strengthening community integration efforts to help individuals live successfully in their communities with appropriate support. This includes developing new community-based programs and partnerships.
The organization recognizes that community integration is the ultimate goal for most individuals and continues to develop innovative approaches to support community living.
Conclusion
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health represents more than a century of commitment to serving individuals with complex behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs. Through its comprehensive array of services, evidence-based treatment approaches, and person-centered philosophy, the organization continues to make a significant difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and families each year.
The organization’s strength lies in its ability to provide individualized, comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of each person served. From intensive residential treatment to community-based support, Devereux offers a continuum of services designed to help individuals achieve their fullest potential and live meaningful, connected lives in their communities.
As Devereux looks to the future, its commitment to innovation, quality, and person-centered care ensures that it will continue to be a leader in the behavioral health field, adapting to meet emerging needs while maintaining its core mission of serving society’s most vulnerable members with compassion, expertise, and hope.
For families facing the challenges of behavioral, emotional, or developmental disabilities, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health offers not just services, but partnership, hope, and a pathway to a brighter future. The organization’s comprehensive approach, experienced staff, and commitment to excellence make it a trusted partner in the journey toward healing, growth, and independence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Information
Q: What is Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health? A: Founded in 1912 by special education pioneer Helena Devereux, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is a national nonprofit partner for individuals, families, schools and communities, serving many of the most vulnerable members of our society. The organization provides comprehensive behavioral health services across 13 states for individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, and complex behavioral health needs.
Q: How many people does Devereux serve? A: Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health employs more than 6,500 staff across 13 states, serving thousands of individuals annually through various residential, community-based, and educational programs.
Q: What states does Devereux operate in? A: Devereux operates in 13 states, with significant operations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Georgia, Florida, and several other states. Each state operation is tailored to meet local needs and regulations while maintaining Devereux’s high standards of care.
Services and Programs
Q: What types of services does Devereux provide? A: Founded in 1912, Devereux serves many of the most vulnerable members of our society in the areas of autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, specialty mental health, education and foster care. Services include residential treatment, community-based support, educational programs, vocational training, and crisis intervention.
Q: Does Devereux provide services for adults with disabilities? A: Yes, Devereux provides services for both children and adults. Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health supports children and adults with autism spectrum disorder in the development of communication, social and independence skills needed to realize fulfilling, productive and socially connected lives.
Q: What is the age range for Devereux services? A: Age ranges vary by program and location. For example, Devereux New York provides a wide range of educational, clinical, residential and community-based programs and services to children and adults, ages 5 to 21, while Devereux Texas provides residential services for adolescents, ages 14 to 17, with complex treatment needs.
Autism Services
Q: What autism services does Devereux provide? A: Devereux offers comprehensive autism services including early intervention, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, educational support, residential treatment, and transition services. Programs focus on developing communication, social, and independence skills.
Q: Does Devereux use evidence-based treatments for autism? A: Yes, Devereux uses evidence-based practices including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), structured teaching methods, and other research-proven approaches for treating autism spectrum disorders.
Q: Can families visit during residential treatment? A: Yes, family involvement is encouraged throughout treatment. Devereux provides family therapy, parent training, and regular opportunities for family visits and participation in treatment planning.
Admission and Referral
Q: How do I refer someone to Devereux services? A: Referrals can come from families, schools, healthcare providers, or other agencies. Contact Devereux directly to speak with intake specialists who will help determine appropriate services and guide you through the referral process.
Q: What is the admission process like? A: The admission process typically includes an initial screening, comprehensive assessment, and development of an individualized treatment plan. Families are involved throughout the process to ensure services meet the individual’s needs.
Q: How long does the admission process take? A: The timeline varies depending on the complexity of needs and availability of services. Intake specialists work to expedite the process while ensuring thorough assessment and appropriate placement.
Funding and Insurance
Q: Does Devereux accept insurance? A: Yes, Devereux accepts various forms of insurance including private insurance and Medicaid. Financial counselors work with families to navigate insurance coverage and identify funding sources.
Q: What if my insurance doesn’t cover services? A: Devereux has financial counselors who help families explore alternative funding options, which may include state funding, sliding fee scales, and other financial assistance programs.
Q: Are there grants or scholarships available? A: Devereux may have various funding assistance programs available. Contact the organization directly to discuss financial assistance options that may be available for your specific situation.
Treatment Approaches
Q: What treatment approaches does Devereux use? A: Devereux uses evidence-based treatments including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), trauma-informed care, positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), and person-centered planning approaches.
Q: How are treatment plans developed? A: Treatment plans are developed through comprehensive assessment and person-centered planning that involves the individual, family, and multidisciplinary treatment team. Plans are individualized based on specific needs, strengths, and goals.
Q: How often are treatment plans updated? A: Treatment plans are regularly reviewed and updated based on progress, changing needs, and achievement of goals. The frequency of updates varies by program but typically occurs at least quarterly.
Family Involvement
Q: How are families involved in treatment? A: Families are essential partners in treatment at Devereux. Involvement includes participation in treatment planning, family therapy, parent training programs, and ongoing communication with treatment teams.
Q: Does Devereux provide parent training? A: Yes, Devereux provides comprehensive parent and caregiver training programs that teach behavior management strategies, communication techniques, and advocacy skills.
Q: Are there support groups for families? A: Yes, Devereux facilitates support groups and peer networks for families and caregivers, providing opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Quality and Outcomes
Q: Is Devereux accredited? A: Yes, Devereux programs are accredited by recognized organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and licensed by appropriate state agencies.
Q: How does Devereux measure treatment success? A: Devereux systematically measures treatment outcomes including skill development, behavioral improvement, community integration, and quality of life indicators. Data is used to improve services and demonstrate effectiveness.
Q: What are typical outcomes for individuals served by Devereux? A: Outcomes vary by individual needs and goals, but many individuals served by Devereux show improvements in behavioral functioning, skill development, community integration, and overall quality of life.
Locations and Programs
Q: Where is Devereux’s main campus located? A: Devereux’s headquarters and main operations are based in Pennsylvania, with the corporate office located in Villanova, PA.
Q: Does Devereux have programs in my area? A: Devereux operates in 13 states with various program locations. Contact the organization to determine if services are available in your specific area.
Q: Can Devereux provide services in my home community? A: Devereux New Jersey serves nearly 500 individuals with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences through a broad spectrum of treatment settings, including community-based homes and supported apartments. Many Devereux programs focus on community-based services that allow individuals to remain in or return to their home communities.
Staff and Qualifications
Q: What qualifications do Devereux staff have? A: Devereux employs qualified professionals including licensed psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, behavior analysts, special education teachers, and other specialists. All staff receive ongoing training and professional development.
Q: How does Devereux ensure staff are properly trained? A: Devereux provides comprehensive initial training and ongoing professional development opportunities. Staff receive training in evidence-based practices, safety procedures, and person-centered approaches.
Q: What is the staff-to-client ratio? A: Staff-to-client ratios vary by program type and individual needs. Devereux maintains appropriate ratios to ensure safety and provide individualized attention based on each program’s requirements and accreditation standards.
