Feeling isolated is common after moving to a new duty station, especially for military families in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP). EFMP families are acutely aware of what it feels like to have to build a support network back up from zero in a new, unfamiliar place. But at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, EFMP "systems navigators" and a new one-of-a-kind Center for Autism, Research, Education, and Services (CARES) facility are changing the game for EFMP families.

EFMP families, or families with members who require special medical or education needs, are a growing part of the Armed Forces' community. Armed Forces Community Service (AFCS) recognized that need at JBLM and put systems navigators, or EFMP specialists, into place to ensure families understand how best to navigate the world of EFMP services and resources.

"What we do in systems navigations is not only provide an in-depth review of EFMP services, but also provide a continuity of care and develop assets of resiliency to engage (families) in state and federal benefits," said Megan O'Day, an EFMP systems navigator at JBLM.

For EFMP families just arriving to JBLM, everything starts at Waller Hall. Servicemembers with an exceptional family member (EFM) are identified during in-processing procedures.

"We have an infrastructure in place to address all incoming EFMP families," O'Day explained. "Ninety days prior to their arrival, we reach out to all servicemembers (in the EFMP) who'll in-process at JBLM. During in-processing, we review military services for families and EFMP services to assist (them) and help them engage in the community."

Systems navigators also connect with incoming spouses in EFMP families to ensure they're able to transition into their new community at JBLM smoothly.

Several systems navigators, including O'Day, have offices at the new CARES facility, which held a grand opening ceremony Aug. 9. The facility will become an important asset to EFMP families, particularly those affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as it provides therapy, support and information about on-post resources to EFMP families. The CARES facility was created through a partnership between Madigan Army Medical Center (MAMC) and the JBLM Armed Forces Community Service. It is the only facility of its kind on any Department of Defense installation.

For families who've just entered the EFMP, the CARES facility can provide temporary assistance to EFMs with ASD until families are able to find long-term care solutions. The facility provides occupational, physical and speech therapy; EFMP training; Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) respite care; and other services to both patients and families.

Systems navigators are also available to help families newly identified as EFMP explore available services and resources, both on and off-post.

"We're here to provide a continuity of care," O'Day said. "Families can connect with us at any time, whether it's to explore inclusive recreation, federal and state benefits or support groups. They can call us, email us or go to Waller Hall.

"We like to teach people how to reengage their services in other states. We know the best way to impact healthcare and military readiness is to develop resiliency, especially for EFMP families. We don't give quick information or referrals. We give thorough evaluations. We help take the emotion out of situations."

To receive treatment at CARES, a child must be enrolled in TRICARE Prime and receive a referral from a primary care manager at MAMC. Families seeking information about autism-related services or relocating to JBLM with children who've already been diagnosed with autism do not need a referral. For more information, visit mamc.amedd.army.mil/clinical/pediatrics/jblm-cares-center.aspx.