Treatment Alternatives for Sexualized Kids (TASK)
What is TASK?
Treatment Alternatives for Sexualized Kids (TASK) is a treatment model designed to meet the complex needs of youth who have engaged in sexually harmful behavior. These individuals often face complex challenges, including involvement with the justice system and underlying mental health issues, such as trauma. Many families struggle to find appropriate, individualized care. Our innovative program provides specialized treatment tailored to meet these unique needs.
How Does It Work?
TASK addresses the contextual and developmental needs of adolescents with problematic sexual behavior through individualized, trauma-focused, and comprehensive care. Most treatment takes place in the home and natural environments, with primary caregivers actively involved in the change process. Using a multi-modal approach, youth and families receive individual, family, and group therapies, along with case management. Services are delivered by a dedicated Clinician and Case Manager from the TASK Team.
An Alternative for Juvenile Detention
When youth are facing legal consequences for sexually inappropriate behavior, our TASK program provides a vital alternative to juvenile detention. Through specialized treatment and therapeutic support, TASK helps youth take accountability, understand the impact of their actions, and begin the process of healing. Judges and court officials can delay sentencing and refer youth to this program, giving them a chance to rehabilitate in a safe, structured environment. Reach out today to learn how TASK can be part of a more restorative approach to juvenile justice!
Program Highlights
Overview and Accessibility
TASK serves youth and families in approximately 40 counties across the state, ranging from the westernmost part of NC to Guildford County. Services are primarily delivered in the home and natural environments of the client, making treatment more accessible and relevant to their daily lives.
Program Timeline and Structure
TASK follows a structured, multi-modal treatment model that includes individual, family, and group therapy, along with case management services. Each youth is supported by a dedicated Clinician and Case Manager who work collaboratively to guide the family through each phase of the program. The timeline is flexible and responsive to the progress and needs of the youth.
Individualized Development
Using the Comprehensive Evaluation of Sexual Harm (CESH), clinicians collaborate with the youth and families to set individualized goals that focus on building skills in self-regulation, communication, healthy sexuality, managing family conflict, improving school behavior, navigating peer relationships, and reducing risk.
Meet Jalen
Before joining the TASK program, 17-year-old Jalen had long struggled with emotional regulation and behavioral challenges, with his family facing repeated crises since he was four. During a virtual CESH evaluation, he experienced a mental health crisis that led to property damage and an involuntary commitment to a crisis stabilization unit. Concerned for his safety, his mother arranged for him to live with his great-grandparents, who had always provided a stable and supportive environment.
Shortly before the school year began, Jalen entered the TASK program, where his therapist collaborated with school staff to help him re-enroll after a previous expulsion. He made remarkable academic progress, recovering two full school years and getting back on track to graduate. Through TASK, he developed vital life skills, rebuilt family relationships, and formed healthy peer connections. By discharge, Jalen was preparing for his senior year and exploring a future in construction—a field where he shows natural talent. After a year of growth, he proudly graduated from TASK, with deep gratitude from both him and his mother.
Child’s name and photo have been changed for his protection, but his story is very real.
TASK FAQs
What types of trauma do you address in your program?
We address sexual abuse, domestic violence, physical abuse, neglect, emotional abuse, grief, and more.
What is the average length of treatment and how is the program implemented?
Treatment lasts 9-12 months, and our program involves over three hours per week of individual, group, and family therapies, along with community support. These services are delivered in the youth’s normal environments, such as their home, school, and other community settings. We operate in rural, suburban, and urban areas, with up to eight clients per professional, collaborating with various agencies and supports.
Who are your clients and what age range do you serve?
We serve youth aged 6-22 with a history of sexual harm or dysregulation affecting their behavior. We help them develop skills in self-regulation, communication, healthy sexuality, managing family conflicts, improving school behavior, and handling peer relations and risk management.