FAST Forward: Finding Your Way Through NH Children's Behavioral Health
FAST Forward is a project of the NH Children's Behavioral Health Collaborative, built to help families, youth, and the people who support them move through New Hampshire's children's behavioral health system with greater speed and confidence. Whether you are just starting to ask questions about your child's mental health or you are already working with providers, FAST Forward provides straightforward information and practical tools to help you take the next step.
What FAST Forward Provides
FAST Forward gathers resources that are often spread across different agencies and systems. The project focuses on making it easier to understand which services exist, how to reach them, and what to expect along the way. Key areas include:
- Plain-language guidance on children's behavioral health services in New Hampshire, including community mental health centers, family support organizations, and state programs.
- Navigation support for families who are unsure where to begin or who have received conflicting information from different providers.
- Youth-focused information that honors the voice and choice of young people in their own care.
- Connections to partner organizations such as NAMI NH, NH Family Voices, the Parent Information Center, ServiceLink, and Youth M.O.V.E. New Hampshire.
Who FAST Forward Serves
FAST Forward is intended for anyone in New Hampshire who is supporting a child or youth with behavioral health needs:
- Parents and caregivers who want to understand the services and supports available to them.
- Youth and young adults who want to stay informed and involved in decisions about their care.
- Teachers, school counselors, and others who work with children and families.
- Providers and community organizations seeking reliable referral information.
How to Get Started with FAST Forward
Begin by identifying what you need most right now. If you are looking for a specific service, the Collaborative's resources section and partner listings can point you toward community mental health centers, family support groups, and statewide information lines. If you feel overwhelmed, start with a conversation: call 2-1-1 for general information and referrals, or contact a family support organization to speak with someone who has navigated the system before.
FAST Forward also encourages families to keep a simple record of questions, appointments, and recommendations. This can make it easier to share information with providers and to track what has been tried. The Collaborative's workgroups and partner projects page lists current initiatives where families and youth can learn more or get involved.
Partner Projects and Collaboration
FAST Forward is part of the Collaborative's broader effort to create a unified system of care for children's behavioral health in New Hampshire. The project works alongside other grants and partner projects, including family-run organizations and youth-led groups, to ensure that the system hears from the people it serves. Collaboration with state agencies, providers, and advocacy organizations helps keep FAST Forward grounded in real family and youth experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does FAST Forward provide direct services?
No. FAST Forward is a project of the NH Children's Behavioral Health Collaborative that connects people to information and resources. For direct services, contact a community mental health center or one of the partner organizations listed on this site.
Is there a cost to use FAST Forward?
The information and navigation resources offered through FAST Forward are available at no cost. Individual services you may be referred to have their own policies, and it is best to ask providers directly about cost and insurance.
Can youth use FAST Forward independently?
Yes. FAST Forward includes information for youth and young adults who want to understand their options and be active in their care. Youth M.O.V.E. New Hampshire and other youth-focused partners can also offer peer support.
How can I get involved with FAST Forward or the Collaborative?
Visit the Get Involved section of this website to sign up for email updates, learn about workgroups, and find out about upcoming meetings and events. Family and youth participation is central to the Collaborative's mission.