Programs & Services

Community-Based Treatment & Prevention Services

Directions for Youth & Families offers programs that provide community-based treatment and prevention services that emphasize commitment to the family, school, and work. Services are provided through innovative programs that are resiliency-oriented, trauma-informed and focus on the reduction of self-defeating behaviors and assisting youth, adults and families in leading positive and productive lives.

Our Approach

  • We are a resiliency-oriented, trauma-informed agency.
  • We support the basic values of the human service field beginning with where the client is and protecting an individual’s right to self-determination.
  • Our accepting and non-judgmental approach respects each individual and the family unit, recognizing strengths in diversity, culture, values, and belief systems.
  • We promote an individual and family’s right to choose. Our purpose is not to make choices for people, nor tell them what to decide. We discuss options with those we serve and respect their decisions, thereby preserving and affording people the opportunity to learn and grow from the choices they make regarding their lives.

Our programs are offered in three main categories:

Clinical Counseling

Learn more here.

Early Childhood

Learn more here.

After-School & Summer Programs

Learn more about Ohio Ave Youth Center

Learn more about Crittenton Center

We offer services for the following:

  • Mental health counseling
  • Sexual abuse survivors
  • Children of murdered parents and siblings
  • Drug and alcohol abuse
  • Kindergarten readiness
  • Domestic violence/children who witness violence
  • Teen parenting and traditional parenting classes

Referrals for services come from schools, parents, juvenile court, other social services agencies, churches, and concerned community residents. Services are provided without cost to participants or are offered on a sliding fee scale. Crisis support services are available for clients 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We hold the national COA accreditation as well as the state OMHAS certification.

Download DFYF’s Guide to Our Services Brochure