Wraparound

Wraparound is an intensive care coordination process designed for youth involved in multiple systems (e.g., behavioral health, education, child protection). It brings together a team of people selected by the youth and family to build a single plan of care based on their strengths, needs, and goals.

Core Principles of Wraparound

Family Voice and Choice: Youth and families are at the center of the planning process, making decisions based on their values and preferences.

Team-Based Planning: A committed team of individuals, chosen by the family, works together to support the youth’s goals.

Natural Supports: The team includes people from the family’s community and daily life, not just professionals.

Collaboration: All team members share responsibility for developing, implementing, and evaluating the Wraparound plan.

Community-Based Services: Services and supports are provided in the most inclusive, least restrictive settings possible.

Cultural Competence: Plans and services respect and reflect the cultural backgrounds of the youth and family.

Individualized Care: Every plan is customized to fit the unique needs, strengths, and circumstances of the youth and family.

Strength-Based Approach: Planning focuses on what is going well and builds on existing strengths.

Unconditional Commitment: The team does not give up, regardless of challenges or setbacks.

Outcome-Based Goals: Progress is measured by meaningful improvements in the youth’s life, with plans adjusted as needed.

Phases of Wraparound

1. Engagement & Preparation:

Engage youth and family, invite team members.

2. Initial Plan Development:

Develop the Plan of Care and Crisis & Safety Plan.

3. Plan Implementation:

Monitor progress, make adjustments.

4. Transition:

Create a transition plan and celebrate success.

Who Is Involved

Every Wraparound team is unique and family-driven. No single role has more authority than another.

  • Youth and families identify who they want on their team.
  • All members (providers, natural supports, educators, etc.) take an active role.
  • The care coordinator facilitates the process, but the family leads.

Access & Eligibility

Eligibility Criteria:


  • Youth under 18 (up to 21 if needed)
  • CANS overall score of 2 or 3
  • Youth and family want to engage in the process
  • Must benefit from intensive coordination or haven’t improved with current services


Multi-System Involvement Required:


  • Behavioral health + at least one of the following:
  • Juvenile court
  • Child Protection Services
  • IEP or 504 plan, or academic concerns
  • Chronic or physical health conditions
  • Developmental or intellectual disabilities

Wraparound may be especially appropriate for families facing:


  • Risk of disrupted placement
  • Frequent hospitalizations or intensive treatment
  • Loss of school or daycare placement
  • Environmental stressors impacting daily life
  • Transitioning home from a higher level of care


Benefits of Wraparound



  • Builds true partnership between families and providers
  • Reduces need for costly out-of-home placements
  • Integrates all services into one coordinated plan
  • Promotes accountability, safety, and positive outcomes
  • Lessens the burden of repeating the family story to multiple providers