DGS is the largest provider of outpatient behavioral health services for children and families in Delaware, and our programs serve an average of 3,100 children and youth annually. Therapeutic options are available for young people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders, traumatic stress-related disorders, suicidal ideation, and other behavioral health problems. Over 93% of DGS clients report improvement in their level of functioning following treatment, and therapeutic benefits extend to clients’ siblings, caregivers, classmates, and peers. 

Outpatient therapy services are available at all 5 of our office locations in Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Lewes, and Seaford. Our community-based clinicians work with clients and families in the home, school, and community settings. DGS' Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) program operates 24/7, 365 days per year to respond to children experiencing acute behavioral health crises. In 2024, our Call Center triaged over 6,000 calls to the Youth Crisis Support Hotline (1-800-969-HELP), and our Crisis clinicians traveled statewide to conduct over 2,000 risk assessments. 

In October 2024, DGS opened the Youth Crisis Bed Support Program at Lewes, making DGS the sole behavioral health agency in Delaware with a downstate option for short-term stabilization services specifically for children and youth.

Our Youth Crisis Bed Support Program, conveniently located in Lewes, provides 24/7 short-term support for young people ages 7-17 who are experiencing an urgent behavioral health need.

Every child deserves access to excellent care, and we are so proud to bring these services to lower Delaware. However, for kids without reliable transportation, any distance is too far. A primary reason why a child or youth referred to the Youth Crisis Bed Support Program declines the referral is due to lack of transportation — and we're here to change that.  

 A $35 donation will support transportation for a child in need of services to travel with a caregiver to the Crisis Bed Support Program in Lewes. Please give now to help remove this barrier to critical crisis services for Delaware children and youth!