The School-Based Youth Services Program in the Brunswick, New Jersey, public schools is a mental health program initiated in 1988 and funded by the New Jersey School Based Youth Services Program. This program is a school-based and centralized service delivery system that has attempted to integrate existing school programs by linking the network of youth service providers. There are ten full-time staff, including psychologists, social workers, and educators. Recreational activities as well as pregnancy counseling and parenting training are provided. The program also helps with substance abuse and suicide prevention. Tutors, mentor groups, and "therapeutic" groups deal with social problems, substance abuse, and coping skills for students who are gifted and talented. Referral services to a local health center for specific health services and treatment are offered as well.
The Center is open during the day, in the evening, and also in the summer to serve clients year-round. Success is due in part to substantial support from the school superintendent, local universities, and others.