The BEACON (Behavioral Health Care and Ongoing Navigation) Public Portal is a centralized online resource developed by the state of Illinois to assist families in accessing youth mental health services and care. Launched in January 2025, the portal aims to streamline the process of finding and connecting with behavioral health resources, ensuring that every child in Illinois receives the support they need.
Key Features of the BEACON Portal:
Comprehensive Resource Database: Parents and caregivers can explore a wide range of services, including outpatient counseling, school-based programs, wraparound services for complex needs, and residential treatment options. The portal provides information on both state-funded programs and community-based resources available in their area.
Personalized Assistance: Users have the option to connect with Resource Coordinators who can help identify additional services tailored to their child's specific needs. For complex cases requiring multi-agency involvement, Clinical Specialists are available to coordinate services and facilitate communication between caregivers and state agencies.
Secure Information Management: The portal allows families to organize and store important documents related to their child's care. All information shared is strictly confidential, stored on a secure, encrypted platform, and accessible only to authorized users with explicit consent from the caregiver.
User-Friendly Access: Designed for convenience, BEACON is accessible on various devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones, allowing families to access resources and support anytime, anywhere.
How to Use BEACON