Youth Outreach Services (YOS), in partnership with the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ), provides evidence-based mental health and substance use treatment for youth ages 13–20 residing in Illinois Youth Centers.
Program Overview
- Early Intervention
- Outpatient Treatment
- Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP)
- Relapse Prevention
- Drug Education
YOS provides services to youth assigned to Illinois Youth Centers in Chicago, St. Charles, Pere Marquette, and Warrenville.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Our programs help youth understand the connection between their thoughts, behaviors, mental health, and substance use while building healthy coping skills for long-term success. Treatment includes:
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Trauma-informed care
- Substance use education
- Relapse prevention planning
YOS utilizes The Seven Challenges, an evidence-based, harm-reduction treatment model. At IYC Chicago, youth with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders also receive SPARCS (Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress), a trauma-informed intervention that helps young people manage the effects of chronic stress and trauma.
Program Length
Program duration varies based on each youth’s treatment needs:
- Outpatient & Intensive Outpatient: Approximately 90 days
- Modified Outpatient: Approximately 8 weeks
- Early Intervention & Relapse Prevention: 2–5 weeks
Why It Matters
YOS and IDJJ are committed to helping youth build healthier futures by:
- Reducing recidivism
- Addressing substance use and mental health challenges
- Developing positive coping and decision-making skills
- Preparing youth for successful reentry into their communities
- Strengthening connections with supportive adults and ongoing community services
Through this partnership, youth receive individualized, evidence-based care that promotes healing, accountability, and long-term success.