RUMC is proud to offer a full continuum of behavioral health services – ranging from inpatient care and outpatient counseling to crisis intervention and substance use treatment. On this episode, we’re focusing on one of the most specialized and forward-thinking programs within that system, the Center for Young Adults. Located at 1130 South Ave., the Center is uniquely designed to meet the needs of individuals ages 11-24 who are facing both mental health and substance use challenges. This dual-diagnoses program provides developmentally appropriate, compassionate, and evidence-based care – supporting not only the young people themselves but also their families and communities. On this episode host, Meredith Gaskins, is joined by Jenifer Sacaccio, LMHC, Program Manager of the Center for Young Adults, and Liza Schatzman, MA, CASAC, Therapist at the Center for Young Adults, to discuss the unique needs of adolescents and young adults, the power of community partnerships, and how early, personalized intervention can change – and even save lives.

In our last episode, we introduced you to two incredible guests—David Ferrer, Peer Advocate with the Behavioral Health Mobile Crisis Team, and Anthony Arcuri, Recovery Peer Advocate with South Shore SafeTY.net. We explored how both programs provide crucial support during some of the most difficult moments in a young person’s life. On this episode, we’re continuing that conversation—diving deeper into what recovery looks like in real life, how families are engaged, and what it means to build trust with youth who may be hesitant to open up. If you haven’t heard part one yet, I encourage you to go back and check it out. But if you’re ready to keep going, let’s jump back in with David and Anthony.

Welcome back to RUMC Connections, the podcast where we highlight the people and programs making a difference at Richmond University Medical Center and the Staten Island community. We’re diving into two vital behavioral health services: Mobile Crisis Outreach and South Shore SafeTY.net programs that offer lifesaving support and long-term empowerment for Staten Island’s youth and young adults. On this episode, host, Meredith Gaskins, is joined by David Ferrer, Peer Advocate on RUMC’s Behavioral Health Mobile Crisis Team, and Anthony Arcuri, Recovery Peer Advocate for South Shore SafeTY.net Program, to discuss pathways to stability, healing, and independence for Staten Island’s youth.