Practicing Alternative & Safe Solutions for Problematic Sexual Behaviors (PASS-PSB)
OHIO
The National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) delivers innovative, community-based services that prioritize safety, accountability, and rehabilitation. PASS-PSB is a strength-based, trauma-informed program for youth whose problematic sexual behaviors might otherwise result in out-of-home placement. Our program helps youth build the skills needed to live safely and responsibly within their home communities.
PASS-PSB is delivered within local communities and includes individual and family therapy and based on the level of care, may include group services. Programming focuses on three core life domains: Family, Community, and Purposeful Life.
Who We Serve
PASS-PSB serves youth ages 12 to 18* with problematic sexual behaviors and actively engages their family in treatment. Our services are instrumental in diverting youth from out-of-home placement, thereby keeping families together. PASS-PSB provides youth with an opportunity for a positive future in the communities they call home.
*Some jurisdictions or contracts may allow services up to age 21.
Why PASS-PSB is Effective
Keeping Families Intact
PASS-PSB uses trauma-informed, evidence-based practices to provide the most effective, and least restrictive level of treatment that starts with establishing individual, family, and community safety. This approach allows youth to safely remain in their home and within their communities, keeping families intact and supporting long-term stability.Strong Advocates for Youth
Youth with problematic sexual behaviors often face stigma and exclusion. In alignment with NYAP’s mission and values, PASS-PSB providers actively advocate for every youth served, upholding dignity and promoting compassionate, fair, and just treatment.Focus On Rehabilitation and a Positive Future
PASS-PSB helps youth rebuild a sense of identity and hope by teaching skills for a safe, healthy, and positive future. Each youth develops an individualized relapse prevention plan that addresses risk and protective factors, strategies to cope and manage, and accountability through proactive planning and support.
Program Goals & Safety
PASS-PSB prioritizes the safety of youth, families, and communities through comprehensive, structured services, including:
Families are contacted within 24-48 hours of referral
Risk assessment and individualized safety planning
Culturally responsive, strengths-based assessment
Youth and family voice and choice in treatment decisions
Family education on caring for youth with problematic sexual behaviors
Service Structure
Services are individualized and delivered over 8 to 9 months on average. Treatment includes four levels of care (PASS-PSB I-IV), determined through NYAP’s assessment and dimensions tools. Depending on level of care and clinical judgement, services may include group sessions with 5 to 10 participants in addition to individual and family therapy.
