Empowered with Meg Ryan and Youth Consultation Service Redefine Education for Diverse Learners
LOS ANGELES, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Public Television audiences are invited to discover a refreshing perspective on educational possibilities in an upcoming segment of Empowered with Meg Ryan. This thoughtful collaboration with Youth Consultation Service (YCS) explores how innovative special education models are supporting neurodiverse learners and helping them flourish. Filmed on May 16, 2025, at the Sawtelle Learning Center in Montclair, New Jersey, the segment provides an inside look at YCS's unwavering commitment to individualized support for students profoundly impacted by autism and behavioral health challenges. It's a powerful testament to the belief that every child—regardless of learning style or support needs—deserves the opportunity to reach their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
"It's an honor to shine a light on the incredible depth of services happening every day at YCS," said Tara Augustine, President and CEO of Youth Consultation Service. "Whether it's clinical care, specialized education, or life skills development, our focus is always on meeting each child where they are and creating a path to long-term success. I'm so proud of our staff and students, and grateful for the opportunity to share their stories with a broader audience."
For families navigating the educational landscape with children who have special needs, finding the right support can be overwhelming. This segment highlights how YCS creates safe, nurturing environments where students not only gain academic skills, but also build confidence, independence, and joy in learning. Through a distinctive blend of clinical expertise and an individualized curriculum, YCS tailors its approach to meet the specific needs of each student.
The program also emphasizes the role of specialized services that enrich the educational experience—from expressive art and music therapy to pet therapy, yoga, and horticulture. These supports are not just add-ons—they are essential tools that make learning accessible and engaging. Social-emotional learning (SEL) is also a critical component, helping students build the emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills they need to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
What grounds all of this is a commitment to evidence-based practices—an approach that combines proven teaching methods with therapeutic insight to create meaningful, long-term outcomes for students. With a focus on real-world skills, personal growth, and whole-person learning, YCS exemplifies what is possible when education is approached with compassion, structure, and innovation.
In addition to Sawtelle Learning Center, YCS also operates George Washington School in Hackensack, serving students with significant emotional and behavioral needs. Together, these two schools reflect the organization's mission to ensure every learner has access to the support they need to succeed—in school and in life.
About Empowered with Meg Ryan:Empowered with Meg Ryan is a Public Television program that offers viewers valuable insights and educational content, inspiring them to take informed action in their lives and communities. The program highlights organizations that are making a positive impact and providing pathways to greater well-being. Learn more at: www.empoweredprogram.com
About Youth Consultation Services: Youth Consultation Services (YCS) has a rich history spanning over a century, beginning as a refuge for orphaned children and abandoned women. Today, YCS transforms lives across New Jersey through 60 dynamic programs, including specialized schools, community mental health clinics, and residential care, all dedicated to empowering the most vulnerable. Learn more at: ycs.org
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