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TextVirginia Systemic Therapeutic Assessment Respite Treatment
Virginia START is a program to support adults with intellectual disability and/or developmental disability, as well as a mental health condition or challenging behavior that is negatively affecting their quality of life.
START emphasizes the prevention of crises before they occur. This is
done through early identification of individuals, development of crisis
response plans, training, and technical assistance. The underlying
philosophy of START is that people’s lives go better when everyone
involved in supporting the individual work as a team to develop ideas and
strategies that will work best for the person.
START offers clinical assessment and support by using the following
methods:
- Training and empowerment for individuals, families and caregivers;
- Mobile Crisis Units;
- 24/7 crisis line;
- Positive behavior supports;
- Therapeutic tools;
- Community and home based crisis intervention and stabilization supports;
- A planned therapeutic and respite facility for up to 6 adults; and
- Linking of community resources.
Who is eligible for Virginia START?
Individuals age 18 and older with intellectual disability and/or a developmental disability as well as co-occurring behavioral health needs or challenging behaviors that is affecting their quality of life.
Why might someone be referred to Virginia START?
Examples of individuals who might be referred include someone who:
- is at risk of losing their home or job due to behavioral concerns;
- has a history of complex medical, behavioral, and/or trauma related issues;
- has exhibited a significant deterioration in functioning over the past 24 months:
- has been hospitalized or admitted to a psychiatric hospital or training center;
- has exhibited behavior that resulted in contact with law enforcement or jail.
Who can make a referral to Virginia START?
Referrals may be made by individuals and families, case managers/clinicians, or other natural supports in a person’s life.
When will Virginia START be ready to take referrals?
The five START teams across Virginia are in different stages of development. Please use the contact information below to discuss with your region’s START staff.
How do I make a referral to Virginia START?
Contact the START staff person in your region:
Charlottesville and Surrounding Areas
START Director – Kelly Watson,
540-259-1028 or
Jarret Stone, LCSW,
919-943-7585
Northern Virginia
START Director – Philippe Kane,
571-409-0377 or
Jarret Stone, LCSW,
919-943-7585
Southwest Virginia
START Director – Denise
Hall, LCSW, 855-887-8278, fax 540-267-3403
Richmond and Surrounding Areas
START Director – Ron Lucas,
LPC, 855-282-1006
Southeast Virginia/Tidewater Area
START Director – Dona M.
Sterling-Perdue, MSW, 855-807-8278
Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental
Services
State Liaison – Bob
Villa, Office of Developmental Services, 804-371-4696
Printable Virginia
START flyer. 
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