Regional Intervention Program

The Regional Intervention Program (RIP) has been serving families since 1969. RIP is a nationally recognized, parent-implemented, and activity-based program for families with young children exhibiting behavior concerns. During the active treatment phase, parents first learn to work directly with their own children. Because RIP requires no monetary... payment, parents participate in payback treatment by assisting in program operation while practicing the skills they've learned and providing support to newly enrolled families. Resource staff develop behavior programs, train enrolled families in positive behavior management techniques, and work with childcare centers and school systems implementing positive programs for RIP children. The program is available to families in which there are behavioral concerns for children up to age 5. Created as an expansion site out of RIP Nashville, RIP Cleveland opened in the Fall of 2001 and, except for a brief period in 2007/2008, has operated in the same location ever since. RIP is a program funded by a grant from the Tennessee Department of Mental Health. The grant is administered by Volunteer Behavioral Health, the parent company of Hiwassee Mental Health. Though RIP is part of the Children and Youth (C&Y) Program at Hiwassee Mental Health, RIP is housed separately and looks and operates differently than the traditional medical model.Read More