New Jersey Department of Human Services has officially rolled out a statewide crisis intervention initiative designed to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who also face mental health challenges, marking a significant expansion of behavioral health resources across the state.
The START (Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources, and Treatment) program is now operating in 11 counties: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Salem.
Commissioner Sarah Adelman announced the launch Monday, describing it as a nationally recognized model that shifts crisis response away from emergency rooms and law enforcement toward community-based intervention.
“START helps individuals and families get the right support at the right time,” Adelman said in a statement, noting the program’s role in building “a more responsive and inclusive system.”
YAI (Young Adult Institute) operates the program under a $3.2 million contract from the state’s Division of Developmental Disabilities. The organization has assembled clinical and therapeutic coaching teams to provide in-home services and round-the-clock crisis response.
The program targets individuals enrolled in existing state disability services who experience complex behavioral or mental health needs, whether living independently, with family, or in residential programs.
Rather than replacing current services, START functions as an intensive, time-limited consultation service aimed at stabilizing individuals and strengthening their support networks. Services include 24/7 crisis response, clinical consultation, therapeutic coaching, crisis mitigation training, and coordination with community providers.
“We are expanding the options and resources available to individuals with complex needs, and their families and support networks,” said the state Human Services Deputy Commissioner Kaylee McGuire.
The launch reflects coordination with the National Center for START Services at the University of New Hampshire Institute on Disability, which is providing training and monitoring to ensure consistent implementation. New Jersey joins 31 similar programs across 11 states serving more than 4,000 people nationally.
Jonathan Seifried, Assistant Commissioner of the Division of Developmental Disabilities, said that START addresses a critical gap.
“With START Services NJ now active, families and providers have a dedicated resource to turn to—one grounded in evidence and committed to person-centered, trauma-informed care,” Seifried said in a press release.
YAI’s acting Chief Executive Officer Gary Milchman said the partnership reflects shared commitment to “building systems of care that are responsive, inclusive, and grounded in dignity.”
The program launch builds on prior state investments in community emergency stabilization services, direct support professional training, and acute behavioral health services tailored to individuals with disabilities.