The Specialized Adolescent Assessment Unit (SAAU) provides family assessment and general protective intake services to adolescents (aged 12-18) and their families, referred by Luzerne County Children and Youth Services. Families are often experiencing severe parent/ child conflict, school/ truancy issues, pre-delinquent behaviors, and drug/ alcohol issues. Workers assess risk and safety factors, review service needs, and develop plans with the family to meet the identified goals, promote a safe environment, preserve family stability, and prevent unnecessary placement of children. Efforts are made to collaborate with the family, school, community providers, law enforcement, etc. to develop the most appropriate plan for the family and to link them with appropriate services. When LCCYS involvement is warranted, SAAU caseworkers assist with the transfer of cases to ongoing units and attend court as needed. Workers are trained in PA Child Welfare practices and regulations and cases are reviewed with the liaison at Luzerne County Children and Youth Services. Referrals to this program are a closed intake system, made through Luzerne County Children & Youth Services Screening department.
For more information, please contact:
Gary McGee
SAAU Supervisor at 570-823-5144, ext. 347