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Acting Commissioner Kristin M. Woodlock, RN, MPA
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

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Consumer Affairs
Bridging the Gap Between Youth and Adulthood

by Tom O'Clair, Family Affairs Advocacy Specialist II, Office of Consumer Affairs

The Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA) is working with the New York State Office of Mental Health's (OMH) Children and Family Services Division and the Bureau of Program Coordination and Support in an effort to address issues around Transition Aged Youth. This is a population that has a unique set of issues when it comes to recovery-oriented programs and services. Often because of these unique circumstances we hear of people "falling through the cracks" when it comes to the ability to provide appropriate supports needed by these youth. When a youth comes of age into the adult world, the transition is often difficult enough.

Compounded by having a mental health diagnosis, these issues can sometimes seem insurmountable. As a start, we have recently developed an extensive list of programs and supports available for public reference. We are also planning a series of regional seminars on youth going to work or furthering their education to better prepare them for independent living. It is our hope that with this effort, and the involvement of our community partners and stake holders, we can work together to reduce and/or eliminate the pitfalls and roadblocks that make transitioning into adulthood difficult. Please see the list of workshop dates and locations below.

SAVE THE DATE! Life Skills for Youth in Transition Seminars

Youth transitioning from childhood to adulthood are entering a very special time of life. Youth with serious emotional or mental health diagnosis have additional hurdles to overcome. Noteworthy among those hurdles is employment. Working promotes independence and recovery as well as teaches life skills to people in this transition.

During the month of June, OMH will provide trainings to address Transition Age Youth employment and independence issues. If you are interested in attending, take note of the seminar scheduled in your area and mark your calendar. Registration will open soon!

  • June 5, 2012 1-4 PM Rochester Psychiatric Center Auditorium, Rochester
  • June 11, 2012 1-4 PM Hutchings Psychiatric Center Auditorium, Syracuse
  • June 18, 2012 1-4 PM BOCES 175 Route 32 North, New Paltz, New York
  • June 25, 2012 1-4 PM Children's Center Auditorium, 492 First Avenue, New York, New York
  • June 26, 2012 9 AM - 12 noon Pilgrim Psychiatric Center Auditorium, West Brentwood

Workshops are approximately 1.5 hours long

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