Chestnut Health Systems acknowledges the unique challenges children and families face in the event of juvenile justice involvement. The Mental Health Juvenile Justice program (MHJJ) is committed to providing the support these families need with the goal of addressing significant mental health issues and thus avoid re-arrest and further detention.

It is estimated that 66% of youth involved in the juvenile justice system experience symptoms related to a significant mental illness. MHJJ hopes to strengthen relationships among families, schools, courts, probation offices, and community partners in which these youth are involved.


Individuals served:

  • 10—18 year olds
  • Must reside in St. Clair or Madison County
  • Must have a medical card
  • Have some involvement with the Juvenile Justice System (court, pending charge, police contact, probation)
  • Mental health symptoms


Program Overview

MHJJ is a comprehensive six-month program that tailors services to the individual needs of each youth and family. Some of the needs addressed include the following:

  • Identify youth impacted by the juvenile justice system
  • Assist families with the court/legal process
  • Behavioral issues with youth
  • Advocacy
  • Linkage to community-based treatment
  • Community support
  • Individual, group and family therapy
  • Parenting skills
  • Family support
  • Education
  • Psychiatric services and medication

For more information about this program, please contact Chestnut’s MHJJ Liaison at 618.397.0900