When your child begins to show signs of emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges, it can feel overwhelming trying to find the right support. Fortunately, New Jersey offers a statewide network of services through the Children’s System of Care (CSOC)—a framework designed to ensure families have access to the care, support, and advocacy they need. But where do you begin?
At the Family Support Organization of Hunterdon, Somerset & Warren Counties (FSO-HSW), we work every day to help families just like yours make sense of this system. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and advocate effectively for your child.
Step 1: Recognize When to Reach Out
If your child is struggling with emotional outbursts, anxiety, depression, substance use, or developmental delays, it’s never too early to seek help. Trust your instincts and remember you are your child’s strongest advocate.
Step 2: Contact PerformCare New Jersey
PerformCare is the single point of access for the Children’s System of Care. You can contact them 24/7 by calling 1-877-652-7624. They will ask questions about your child’s behavior, history, and current needs to determine the level of care needed and initiate services.
Step 3: Get Linked with Care Management or Mobile Response
Depending on the assessment, your family may be connected to a Care Management Organization (CMO) for long-term, community-based support or to Mobile Response & Stabilization Services, which provide short-term crisis intervention at home within one hour of your call.
Step 4: Understand the Services Available
CSOC offers a range of services tailored to your child’s unique needs, including:
- Behavioral health services
- Developmental disability services
- Substance use treatment
- In-home therapy
- Respite care
- Mentoring and social skills groups
These services are designed to be family-centered, strength-based, and community-driven—placing your child and family at the center of every decision.
Step 5: Partner with a Family Support Organization
This is where FSO-HSW steps in. As a family-run organization, we provide free peer support, education, and advocacy to parents and caregivers in Hunterdon, Somerset, and Warren Counties. Our team has lived experience and understands the emotional journey you’re on. Whether you’re new to the system or navigating complex services, we’re here to walk alongside you.
Step 6: Advocate with Confidence
Knowledge is power. Ask questions. Attend meetings. Take notes. Bring a support person if needed. The more informed you are, the more empowered you’ll be to make decisions that serve your child’s best interests. FSO-HSW offers workshops and support groups to help you build the confidence and tools to advocate for your child effectively.
You’re Not Alone
Every family’s journey is unique, but you don’t have to walk it alone. At FSO-HSW, we believe in the power of family voice and are here to ensure yours is heard—loud and clear. Ready to get started or need help navigating the Children’s System of Care? Contact us today to speak with a Family Support Partner. We’re here for you—every step of the way.
