The Beta Program, located within the JDC, is a co-occurring program providing six months (secure placement) of on-site treatment followed by up to six-months of aftercare services in the community. The 8-bed program provides therapeutic treatment services to male offenders ages 14 - 17. The program also provides the Court an alternative to committing youth to the Department of Juvenile Justice.
Perspective admissions must be referred by a probation officer and must complete an admissions assessment/interview with Beta Program Administration to determine their appropriateness for placement prior to youth being Court ordered into the program. Once a youth is admitted, the parent(s)/guardian(s) are provided with additional programming information. Additional program requirements/restrictions are outlined in the Virginia Code 16.1-284.1.
Interventions are structured to address delinquency, behavioral/mental health, substance abuse and educational issues. Some of these treatment areas may be emotional regulation developing positive coping skills, maintaining healthy relationships, and decision-making, moral reasoning, identifying and setting boundaries. Services include individual and group counseling, family therapy, psychoeducation, and substance use disorder (SUD) groups including the Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (A-CRA). The Beta Program also utilizes various evidence-based programming, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Informed Therapy, and psychiatric services including medication management. There is a strong family component consisting of weekly family therapy, monthly family engagement groups, and monthly scheduled court reviews. An on-site Fairfax County Public School program addresses the educational needs of all youth.