LEVEL OF CARELEVEL OF CARE
Resilient Approach
Children with mild to moderate symptoms and some degree of functional impairment often benefit most from a referral to mental health therapy. In many cases, brief, non-specialized treatment with a general child mental health therapist can effectively address their needs. Additionally, these children may gain valuable support through anticipatory guidance on child traumatic stress, helping them and their families understand and navigate their experiences. A targeted brief in-office intervention can also be beneficial, providing immediate coping strategies and reinforcing resilience.
Moderate PTSD or Loss Symptoms, Impaired Self-Regulation Flexibility and Function, Impaired Socioeconomic Repertoire and Psychosocial Characteristics:
Individuals in this category experience moderate symptoms that may impact their functioning. To address their symptoms and enhance their well-being, they are directed to preventive interventions, including therapy and support groups.
Example Scenario
Name: Jordan Johnson
Age: 18
Jordan’s older cousin, whom he looked up to, died in a motorcycle accident. They were close, and the suddenness of the loss left him feeling unsettled. While he still attends college and completes his assignments, he finds himself distracted during lectures and has occasional sleepless nights. He sometimes isolates himself but still reaches out to close friends when he needs support. Jordan is doing his best to regulate his emotions, but he sometimes struggles with guilt, wondering if he should have spent more time with his cousin. He has a good support system, but he doesn’t always use it, sometimes feeling like he doesn’t want to be a burden. He acknowledges his grief but occasionally avoids talking about it. Despite this, he continues to function, though with some difficulty, as he balances school, work, and healing. Additionally, Jordan’s house was damaged in a wildfire this year. His family had to evacuate, and although they eventually moved back, the experience left him feeling uneasy whenever he smells smoke or hears emergency sirens. He still does well in school and is applying for colleges, but he occasionally struggles with focus and motivation. He has moments of feeling unsettled but generally finds a way to distract himself. Jordan can regulate his emotions most of the time, but he sometimes experiences mild anxiety during dry seasons when wildfires are more common. While he still gets nervous about the possibility of another disaster, he talks about his fears and doesn’t let them control him. He has occasional nightmares and uneasiness but they don’t significantly interfere with his daily life.

*Social Interaction and Social Economic Profile of Youth and Caregiver for optimal identification of mental health well being and response to treatment will be assessed by our team
Jordan shows mild symptoms of PTSD and grief that are causing his functional level to be impaired as he is having trouble performing at adequate levels in his personal, academic and professional duties. His self regulation flexibility is reduced as well as his social and economic support. Therefore, Jordan would benefit from being assigned to the Resilient Approach.









