Northwood Children's Services   

Celebrating 125 years of caring for children.

We are currently in need of foster care families. If you would be interested in becoming a foster family, or know of someone who might be interested, please contact Mel Winkler at 218-724-8815. 

DIAGNOSTIC & ASSESSMENT CENTER

The Northwood Diagnostic and Assessment Center provides comprehensive evaluations, diagnoses, and family assessments for children referred to the program.  Since it is a live-in Diagnostic program, participating children stay in a secure, home-like environment while taking advantage of the educational and recreational opportunities available at Northwood's Main Campus.

A comprehensive evaluation of the youth is completed in 35 days or less.  A short-term residential program, using a solution-focused therapy model is available for children and youth who require more intensive therapy.  This brief therapy program focuses on goals that are accomplished within a three to six-month time frame.

Services

A multi-disciplinary team conducts a complete assessment of each child's needs from an emotional, social, cognitive, physical and behavioral perspective.  A family assessment is conducted as well.

First, the team completes specialized evaluations.  Results are presented to the family and responsible referring agency personnel.  The assessment includes recommendations to strengthen and preserve the family and to enable the youth to lead a more productive life.

The remaining time at the center is used to implement planning recommendations.  In some cases the child may return home.  In other cases he or she is integrated into Northwood's residential, day treatment, or home-based programs to receive further care.

Referral Process

The child must be aged 5 to 17 years.  Inquiries by a mental health professional, local school district, county social worker, hospital, child care provider, or parents are welcome.  However, to enter the Diagnostic and Assessment Center, county social service involvement is needed.

Staff

A highly trained staff including a psychiatrist, a nurse, educators, a recreation therapist, youth counselors, and a supervisor conduct each assessment, led by our licensed psychologist.

For more information about this program, please contact:

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