Youth Resources – YouthWell

FYI: OUR RESOURCE LIST IS CURRENTLY LIMITED BUT THIS IS A PROJECT OF YOUTHWELL FOR 2020 TO EXPAND AND CREATE A COMPREHENSIVE RESOURCE & REFERRAL DIRECTORY. WE WELCOME YOUR FEEDBACK >

CRISIS

Visit MHMYouth.org provided by Mental Health Matters to learn the basic facts, symptoms and warning signs of mental health disorders.

Print and fill out a personal Safety Plan or download the my3 app to your phone. Identifying their support system ahead of time when they are thinking clearly can help guide them when they are in crisis.

THERE IS A LIMITED LIST OF RESOURCES BELOW. THIS IS STILL BEING WORKED ON.

SB CRISIS RESOURCES

Santa Barbara Emergency Contacts

SAFTY ~ Safe Alternatives for Treating Youth 888-334-2777
- The SAFTY mobile crisis response hotline (8:00am-8:00pm) is provided by Casa Pacifica. SAFTY has a mobile crisis team, and provides intervention, phone and in-home support, linkage to services, and will help create a safety plan.Available to all SB County youth, ages 0-20. casapacifica.org

CARES ~ SB Crisis and Recovery Emergency Services 888.868.1649
- SB County Dept of Behavioral Wellness 24/7 hotline, providing crisis intervention and consultation services. CARES is also a mobile mental health assessment team that will come on site to do an assessment if 911 is called for a mental health emergency. They also provides other mental health services and support. countyofsb.org/behavioral-wellness

SB Sheriff Behavioral Sciences Unit 805.681.4231
- Dr. Cherylynn Lee, psychologist. Learn about the CIT team that responds to mental health calls. View their 911 Checklist that can help if you need to make a crisis call. sbsheriff.org

Cottage Hospital 805-569-8339
- 24-hour walk-in Emergency Psychiatric Service. Consultation and crisis intervention for mental health crises and chemical dependency. cottagehealth.org

Noah’s Anchorage 805.963-8776
- Residential program and temporary shelter for runaway and homeless youth ages 12-17. Individual and family counseling, cooling off period, and group sessions
  24/7 Crisis Hotline & Text Line ciymca.org/youthandfamilyservices/noahs/

Standing Together Against Sexual Assault 24 hour Hotline: 805-564-3696
- Provide confidential crisis counseling. sbstesa.org

Domestic Violence Solutions 24 hour Crisis Line: 805.964.5245
- Staff provide counseling, information, referrals, and access to immediate shelter. dvsolutions.org

SB Response Network 805.699.5608
- Trained volunteers are primarily trained in psychological first aid [PFA], which provides psychosocial support to individuals and families after a traumatic event or other emergencies. sbresponsenetwork.org

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- Connecting People to Health & Human Services Information
- Youth Resource Guide

NATIONAL CRISIS RESOURCES

24 Hour National Hotlines

Crisis Text Line
Text SIGNS to 741741 for 24/7, anonymous, free crisis counseling.
Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, providing access to free, 24/7 support and information via text. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds quickly.

Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-TALK (8255) or ONLINE LIVE CHAT
24-hour, toll-free, confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Your call is routed to the nearest crisis center in the national network of 150+ crisis center

International Association For Suicide Prevention (IASP)
With the help of the World Health Organization, IASP has complied helplines from around the globe. Search by region to find a local crisis center or crisis phone number.

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
The helpline provides 24-hour free and confidential treatment referral and information about mental and/or substance use disorders, prevention, and recovery in English and Spanish.

The Trevor Project Project
Trevor Lifeline: (866)-488-7386
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24

Bullying Help Chat Line
The STOMP Out Bullying™ HelpChat Line is a free and confidential online chat that helps youth ages 13-24 ONLY with issues around bullying and cyberbullying; as well as providing support to youths who may be at risk of suicide.

California Youth Crisis Line 800-843-5200
24/7 statewide emergency response system for youth (ages 12-24) and families in crisis. Thoughts of suicide, depression, bullying, health and identity questions, trauma, human trafficking or any teen-related struggle are discussed with a crisis counselor in confidence and without judgment. We do not provide advice.

National Teen Dating Abuse 866.331.8453

Child-Help USA – 800-422-4453
Dedicated to the prevention of child abuse. 24/7 Hotline offers crisis intervention, information, literature, and referrals to thousands of emergency, social service, and support resources.

COLLEGE CRISIS LINES

College Crisis Lines

SBCC 965-0581 ext.2298
- on campus Counseling/Crisis intervention and referral for students.

UCSB Counseling & Psychological Services 805.893.4411
- If you are a registered student, or have a friend in crisis, CAPS staff are available in person during regular office hours for students, faculty or parents or after-hours by phone.
- Student Health Social Work Services: 805.893.3087
- Distressed Student Response: 805.893.3030
- To learn more about signs of distress, view UCSB #saysomething app.
- Distressed Student Protocol >

Westmont 565-6222
- Public Safety may be called 24 hours a day. On-Call Resident Director, available 24/7 during academic year. 805-565-6273

Many of the support services on college campuses are included with the student's tuition…

Provide assessment and brief therapy for students.
Community referrals for long-term needs.
Provide crisis intervention
Education and outreach
Training future mental health care professionals
Medication management through student health insurance plan
Re-entry process for students who take semester off due to mental health to provide “continuity of care”

SCREENING TOOLS • MHA

Find Mental Health Screening Tools on the Mental Health America website.

This is a tool and not a diagnostic instrument so you will still want to follow up with a doctor.

The Depression Test is for individuals who are feeling overwhelming sadness.
The Eating Disorder Test can help explore eating related concerns that have an impact on your physical health and overall well-being.
The Anxiety Test is for people who feel that worry and fear are affecting their ability to function day-to-day.
The Addiction Test (Alcohol and substance use test) will help determine if your use of alcohol or drugs is an area to address.
The Bipolar Test is for individuals who have mood swings - or unusual or extreme shifts in mood and energy.
The Youth Test is for young people (age 11-17) who are concerned that their emotions, attention, or behaviors might be signs of a problem.
The PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Test is for those who are bothered by a traumatic life event.
The Parent Test is for parents of young people to determine if their child’s emotions, attention, or behaviors might be signs of a problem.
The Psychosis Test is for young people (age 12-35) who feel like their brain is playing tricks on them (seeing, hearing or believing things that don't seem real or quite right).
The Work Health Survey is a screen to explore how healthy or unhealthy your work environment is. It is in testing phase and every screen taken helps us better understand mental health in the workplace.

CREATE SAFETY PLAN • 13 REASONS WHY TOOLKIT

SAFETY PLAN

Identifying their support system ahead of time when they are thinking clearly can help guide them when they are in crisis.

Print and fill out a personal Safety Plan
OR d
Download the my3 app to your phone.

13 REASONS WHY TOOLKIT

SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) brought together a group of 75 leading experts in mental health, suicide prevention and education as well as healthcare professionals. This group developed a toolkit providing practical guidance and reliable resources for parents, educators, clinicians, youth and media (suicide, school violence, sexual assault, bullying, substance abuse, getting help, how to take care of yourself, etc.).

TALKING TO YOUR CHILD

ReachOut.com

Helping parents support their teenagers through everyday issues and tough times.
ReachOut Schools uses evidence-based resources and innovative technology to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people. We help school staff and parents to better understand and support young people to take control of their mental health and wellbeing.

SCHOOL-BASED & COMMUNITY RESOURCES

YOU CAN FIND PROVIDERS ON CAMPUS AT OUR LOCAL SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SCHOOLS.
PRINT YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS RESOURCE FLYER...

download & print PDF ENGLISH RESOURCE FLYER SB 2019-2020
download & print PDF SPANISH RESOURCE FLYER SB 2019-2020

2019_YouthWell_Resource Flyer_11x17_English

2019_YouthWell_Resource Flyer_11x17_Spanish

Workshops - Community Conversations About Youth Mental Health

WORKSHOP SPEAKERS 2019

Dustin Sanchez, MD (August 2019)

Dr. Dustin Sanchez is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. In addition to serving as Medical Director at Mission Harbor Behavioral Health, he has an outpatient practice in Santa Barbara and has attending privileges at Cottage Hospital. Dr. Sanchez specializes in a wide range of psychiatric problems across the lifespan, including substance use disorders, and utilizes a holistic approach to achieve optimal health and wellness for his patients. He has extensive training and experience in psychotherapy, complex psychopharmacology, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). He is currently developing a lecture series aimed at engaging and educating our community on a variety of mental health topics. VIEW WEBSITE

Michael Mantz, MD (August 2019)

Dr. Michael Mantzis a psychiatrist who worked for 2 years at an intensive outpatient program that specializes in treating substance use disorders. He currently runs a private practice that focuses on mind-health optimization using a unique blend of mindfulness-based psychotherapies, nutrition, supplements and the latest in brain-boosting strategies that have come out of recent neuroscientific research. Dr. Mantz emphasizes the importance of integrating both mind and body practices to help heal and strengthen the mind. Santa Barbara Integrative Psychiatry

Sam L, Student Speaker from UCSB Gauchos For Recovery.

Rachael Steidl (WORKSHOP MODERATOR)

Rachael Steidl is a Santa Barbara native and the mother of 3 teen daughters. As the founder and former publisher of ParentClick.com, she has spent much of the past fifteen connecting families to resources in our community. Rachael launched the YouthWell Coalition in 2016 to address the gaps in mental health services for youth and to expand the dialogue and increase community collaboration. At the same time, she worked with the Mental Wellness Center to launch the Youth Wellness Connection (YWC) Council and is working with students on "you matter" campaigns on 5 high school campuses through the YWC Clubs that promote self-care, kindness, and encourage youth to ask for help when they are struggling. She is committed to increasing awareness through education and reducing stigma so that youth and families can feel safe reaching out for support. Rachael has over 25 years of experience in management, marketing, and strategic planning. Rachael has an M.A. in Clinical Psychology and her early work experience included counseling youth in group homes and co-facilitating addiction groups.
VIEW YOUTH WELLNESS CONNECTION

Dave Mochel (APRIL 2019)

For over thirty years, Dave Mochel has been focused on the foundations of wellbeing, healthy communities, and leadership. After a twenty-year career teaching human development and neuroscience in independent schools, he founded Applied Attention to help individuals, teams, and organizations focus their attention and energy where it will make the greatest positive difference. Using principles drawn from modern scientific research and enduring wisdom, he has had the opportunity to work with leaders, educators, executives, parents, students, and athletes all over the world. He draws upon his degrees in biology from Williams College, a Master’s in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz, and a clinical internship in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. The principles and practices he teaches have been distilled and synthesized from thousands of years of enduring wisdom, thousands of scientific studies, and thousands of conversations with colleagues, students, friends, and clients. Learn more about Dave >

Alia Aizenstat (JANUARY 2019)

Alia Aizenstat, M.A., is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Associate and Professional Clinical Counselor Associate who works both in private practice and as a Lead Group Facilitator at AHA!, a non-profit organization educating teens on emotional intelligence and social justice. Alia holds a master's degree from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology. She is the published author of Psychotherapy in the Digital Age: The Integration of Online Identities in the Therapeutic Process, and the founder of the Virtual Identities Integration Treatment model. She is an international lecturer and has been working to implement psychoeducational segments on digital responsibility into schools and therapeutic treatment centers. Alia has trained in EMDR trauma therapy levels one and two with an attachment focus through the Parnell Institute, and in Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) with one of the program's founders, Steven Hayes. VIEW WEBSITE

Christy Stillwell (JANUARY 2019)

Christy Stillwell, M.A., is the founder and executive director of What is LOVE, an innovative dating violence prevention program dedicated to helping teens identify abusive love and build healthy relationships skills. Christy is an educator and youth activist with more than twenty years of program development, management, and independent evaluation. She conducts workshops, staff trainings and speaks in schools, juvenile detention facilities, universities, and youth-serving organizations. She is known for her creativity, innovation, and a high level of integrity while addressing complex vital issues. She is dedicated to creating a community of socially and emotionally intelligent youth, committed to success, building empathy, taking responsibility, repairing harm, and crafting successful futures. VIEW WEBSITE

RESOURCES: YOUTH SUBSTANCE USE, recreational, self-medicating, addiction

WORKSHOP: [AUGUST 2019] Youth Substance Use... understanding the difference between self-medicating, addiction, and recreational use.

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION: [1] Learn about current substance use trends and understand the negative effects of vaping, JUULing, & binge drinking. [2] Recognize the difference between recreational use and addiction. [3] Understand how self-medicating can mask the symptoms of mental illness. [4] Learn to tell when youth are using and how to engage in the difficult conversations. Find out about local support resources.

WORKSHOP RESOURCES...

VIDEO OF THE WORKSHOP COMING SOON...
-
view Substance Use workshop PRESENTATION SLIDES

RESOURCES: MANAGING STRESS & FINDING BALANCE

WORKSHOP: [APRIL 2019] Managing Stress & Finding Balance - Increasing resilience in our youth through mindfulness and self-care.

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION: How do we offer guidance & support without rescuing our children from the discomfort that naturally comes with healthy challenges and growth? We will [1] introduce & practice simple strategies for supporting our kids in becoming capable & resilient adults, [2] explore simple practices for parents to use in being more present & understanding, [3] discuss the line that separates normal upset & disappointment from depression & anxiety that require professional intervention.

WORKSHOP RESOURCES...

YOUTHWELL HANDOUT
WELLNESS TIPS, SELF CARE PLAN, & DIGITAL DETOX CHALLENGE
-
PRESENTATION SLIDES
Managing Stress & Finding Balance, Dave Mochel Slides

STARTING THE CONVERSATIONS WITH YOUR TEEN

RESOURCES: MANAGING DIGITAL DEVICES & SOCIAL MEDIA

WORKSHOP: [JAN 2019] Navigating the digital and gaming age with our youth

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION: Workshop will feature speakers and breakout groups where you will learn strategies on how to support youth responsibly with their devices. Understand the impact of screens on brain development. Learn to identify signs of cell phone and gaming addiction. Learn how to start the conversations with your child and set healthy limits around devices.

WORKSHOP RESOURCES...

YOUTHWELL HANDOUT
STRATEGIES & TIPS FOR IMPLEMENTING DIGITALLY RESPONSIBLE BOUNDARIES

STARTING THE CONVERSATIONS WITH YOUR TEEN

SAMPLE DIGITAL CONTRACTS
Sample contracts you can use to set up boundaries around screens in the house

LINKS TO OTHER DIGITAL RESOURCES & ARTICLES

Consider additional online searches using: Digital Responsibility - Digital etiquette, Digital access, Digital commerce, Digital communication, Digital law, Digital health and wellness, Digital security

VIDEOS (great clips & overviews with teen perspectives)

Video: Social Media, Social Life: Teens Reveal Their Experiences
Video: SCREENAGERS (Official Trailer) Probes into the vulnerable corners of family life, including the director's own, and depicts messy struggles, over social media, video games, academics and internet addiction.
Video: New study links phone use and mental health issues in teens
Video: What is Digital Harassment?

ARTICLES

Is Your Child a Phone ‘Addict’? article
By Ana Homayoun / New York Times
How (and When) to Limit Kids' Tech Use article
By Melanie Pinola / New York Times
10 Social Apps Every Parent of a Teen Should Know article
By Megan Maas

GAMING

PARENTAL CONTROLS

COUNSELING SUPPORT

CHOOSING A THERAPIST

Choosing a Therapist

It is most affordable to find a therapist or treatment provider that is covered by your insurance plan. However, it is recommended to really make sure that the therapist you use specializes in the needs of your child and family. It is also important that there is a connection which sometimes means going out of network. Ask around for referrals and take the time to do a consultation with a few therapists to find the right fit. Consider the following…

Location?
Availability?
Cost?
Do they accept insurance?
Is your therapist licensed? If you are seeing an intern, do they have a supervisor they meet with on a regular basis?
What’s the therapist’s philosophy and approach to counseling?
Do you feel safe and comfortable?
Is it easy to make conversation?
Is the therapist easy to relate to or does they feel emotionally removed?
Can the therapist define how they can help you to solve your issue and give you a clear overview of the process and time frame?
Can your therapist accept feedback and admit when they make a mistake?
Does the therapist encourage independence by helping you to identify and find your own solutions?
Does the therapist have experience and training for the specific issue you are addressing?
Does the therapist provide homework or reading between sessions?
Will the therapist see more than 1 family member?
Will the therapist coordinate with other treatment providers if necessary?
Is the therapist available between sessions if there is an urgent issue?

Differences between a Therapist, Coach & Counselor

These roles can get confusing… therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and coaching.

THERAPY

The process of meeting with a therapist to resolve problematic behaviors, beliefs, feelings, relationship issues. Therapeutic services offer the client support and skills to deal with psychological pain, to gain insight into their behaviors, while learning new strategies to cope with depression, anxiety, hyperactivity and unwanted behaviors.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

OT is a form of therapy for those recuperating from physical or mental illness that encourages rehabilitation through the performance of activities required in daily life.

COUNSELING & COACHING

Coaches meet with clients to discuss needs and goals. They help clients work on future goals including careers, jobs, schools, academic remediation, strategies for wrap-around programming, etc.

Understanding the different professions

LMFT, MFCC, LMFC ~ Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
The practice of marriage and family therapy is service performed with individuals, couples, or groups wherein interpersonal relationships are examined for the purpose of achieving more adequate, satisfying, and productive marriage and family adjustments.

LCSW ~ Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Defined as a service in which a special knowledge of social resources, human capabilities, and the part that unconscious motivation plays in determining behavior, is directed at helping people to achieve more adequate, satisfying, and productive social adjustments.

LPCC ~ Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Professional clinical counseling means the application of counseling interventions and psychotherapeutic techniques to identify and remediate cognitive, mental, and emotional issues, including personal growth, adjustment to disability, crisis intervention, and psychosocial and environmental problems, and the use, application, and integration of the coursework and training. Includes conducting assessments for the purpose of establishing counseling goals and objectives to empower individuals to deal adequately with life situations, reduce stress, experience growth, change behavior, and make well-informed, rational decisions.

LEP ~ Licensed Educational Psychologist
Performance of any of the following functions pertaining to academic learning processes or the education system: (a) Educational evaluation. (b) Diagnosis of psychological disorders related to academic learning processes. (c) Administration of diagnostic tests related to academic learning processes including tests of academic ability, learning patterns, achievement, motivation, and personality factors. (d) Interpretation of diagnostic tests related to academic learning processes including tests of academic ability, learning patterns, achievement, motivation, and personality factors. (e) Providing psychological counseling for individuals, groups, and families. (f) Consultation with other educators and parents on issues of social development and behavioral and academic difficulties. (g) Conducting psychoeducational assessments for the purposes of identifying special needs. (h) Developing treatment programs and strategies to address problems of adjustment. (i) Coordinating intervention strategies for management of individual crises.

MFTI, MFCI ~ Interns
Individuals who have a Master’s degree and are fulfilling the requirements for licensure as a Marriage, Family, and Child Counselor. They see clients or work in a clinical setting, with their clinical work being supervised by a senior, licensed therapist.
Marriage & Family Therapist ~ Associate Counselor
An associate is a pre-licensure candidate with a graduate degree in a mental health field. The associate is gaining the experience necessary to become a licensed independent clinical social worker, licensed advanced social worker, licensed mental health counselor or licensed marriage and family therapist.

Psychiatrist ~ MD
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has specialized in mental health and must evaluate patients to determine whether their symptoms are the result of a physical illness, a combination of physical and mental, or a strictly psychiatric one. Most psychiatrists have less training in talk therapy.

Ph.D ~ Psy.D ~ Psychologist
Psychologists are doctoral level clinicians. The one specialty psychologists have primarily is in administering psychological tests.

LIFE COACH CERTIFICATIONS

At this time there is no state or federal regulation of the coaching industry. Center for Credentialing and Education (CCE), as an affiliate of the National Board for Certified Counselors offers the BCC Certification. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is dedicated setting high standards and providing independent Life Coach Certification.

C.L.C. ~ Certified Life Coach
C. S. C. ~ Certified Spiritual Coach
A.C.C. ~ Associate Certified Coach
M.C.C. ~ Master Certified Coach
P.C.C. ~ Professional Certified Coach
A.C.T.P. ~ Accredited Coach Training Program
B.C.C. ~ Board Certified Coach, National Board for Certified Counselors

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS

NBCOT Certification

THERAPISTS

PSYCHIATRISTS

PSYCHOLOGISTS

Psychologists

ASSESSMENT & EVALUATION

Dr. Carrie Towbes, Child Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Trina Pangelina, Los Angeles
Dr. Michael Mantz

SPECIALIZES in SLEEP DISORDERS

Winifred Lloyds Lender 805.880.9699

What are the different specialties?

Clinical psychologists assess and treat people with psychological problems. They may act as therapists for people experiencing normal psychological crises or for individuals suffering from chronic psychiatric disorders.
Counseling psychologists do many of the same things that clinical psychologists do. However, they tend to focus more on persons with adjustment problems rather than on persons suffering from severe psychological disorders.
Developmental psychologists study how we develop intellectually, socially, and emotionally over the lifespan. Many do research and teach in academic settings, but many act as consultants to schools or social service agencies.
Educational psychologists are concerned with the study of human learning. They attempt to understand the basic aspects of learning and then develop materials and strategies for enhancing the learning process.
Forensic psychologists are involved in analyzing crime evidence and aiding law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations.
Health psychologists are concerned with psychology’s contributions to the promotion and maintenance of good health and the prevention and treatment of illness. They may design and conduct programs to help individuals stop smoking, lose weight, manage stress, and stay physically fit.
Industrial/organizational psychologists are primarily concerned with the relationships between people and their work environments.
Physiological psychologists study the physiological correlates of behavior.
School psychologists are involved in enhancing the development of children in educational settings. They assess children’s psychoeducational abilities and recommend actions to facilitate student learning.
Social psychologists study how our beliefs, feelings, and behaviors are affected by other persons. Most work in academic settings.

Psychological Evaluation Process

Psychological testing is nearly always performed by a licensed psychologist since they are the only profession that is expertly trained to perform and interpret psychological tests.

Psychological assessment is a process of testing that uses a combination of techniques including interviews and observations to help arrive at some hypotheses about an individual and their behavior, personality and capabilities.

It is recommended as part of a full assessment that the individual also have a full medical examination, to rule out the possibilities of a medical, disease or organic cause for the individual’s symptoms.

INTERVIEWS

Interviews with the child/teen, parents, teachers, academic counselors and therapists allow the psychologist to gather valuable information. This is usually done prior to any formal testing and there can also be follow up.

TESTING

Assessment of Intellectual Functioning (IQ)
- Intelligence Tests: Stanford-Binet and the Wechsler scales
- IQ Test: WAIS-IV – Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , WISC-IV – Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children
- Halstead Reitan Battery neuropsychological tests
Personality Assessment
- Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)
- Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory, 3rd edition (MCMI-III)
- Rorschach Inkblot Test
- Myers-Briggs
Behavioral Assessment
- Observing the child/teen in their natural environment can also be helpful in having a better understanding of the individual. Often, behavior observations is some of the most important information.
- How does the person act? Nervous, calm, smug? What they do and do not do? Do they make and maintain eye contact? How close to you do they sit?

ASSESSMENT & RECOMMENDATIONS

Psychologists take all of the information they have gathered to create an assessment and then make recommendations based on the results.

EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS

Independent Educational Consultants

Parent Recommended

The consultants below have been recommended by parents and students.

Randi Klein [Westlake, CA]
Pamela Jobin [Dever, CO]
Alicia Goldman [SF, CA]

Other possibilities to review…

Harriett Bay in LA
Kay Davison in Newport Beach
Paula Feldman in Corona del Mar
Lynn Hamilton in Santa Barbara
Dani Levine in Tarzana
Anne Lewis in Santa Barbara
Susan Miltner in Davis
Jessica Romeyn in LA
Teri Solocheck in West Hills

What is an Independent Educational Consultant?

Educational Consultants that work with families that have at-risk teens typically have extensive experience in crisis intervention, dealing with oppositional behaviors, and other emotional/behavioral difficulties.

Educational Consultants focus on finding the best solutions and specialize in therapeutic boarding school, residential treatment and wilderness placements. Educational consultants know the schools and programs and have an in-depth knowledge of the program differences and quality of the staff.

Fees… Some consultants charge an hourly fee, while others offer an overall fee for the whole process from start to finish. Ask your consultant what the fee includes. [Note: Consultants should not receive any incentives from the programs that they refer to.]

The process… Consultants collect information including school transcripts, therapeutic evaluations, medications, and possibly do some psychological or academic assessments to help identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses. The consultant then gives your family the full range of options that best fit for your child.

Finding a consultant… Referrals are always a great way to go when looking for a consultant. There is also a national organization, IECA, and these approved member consultants are trained experts and the website, IECAonline.com is a great resource for learning more.

CHOOSING A TREATMENT PROGRAM

FAMILY WELLNESS & LIFE COACH

Parent Recommended

What is a Life Coach?

Coaching vs Therapy

LIFE COACH: Professional coaching focuses on setting goals, creating outcomes and managing personal change. Coaching is future focused and supports growth based on self-initiated change utilizing action, accountability, and follow-through.

THERAPIST: Typically therapy deals with healing pain, dysfunction and conflict within an individual or in relationships [ie: parenting, marriage]. The focus is on resolving issues arising from the past that are affecting an individual’s emotional functioning and learning to manage the present in a healthier way.

FAMILY COACH: This is often an intensive service that focuses on reducing unmanageable behaviors that are currently impacting the teen’s functioning at home or school. The coach helps the teen learn new ways of reducing and managing behaviors and increase positive behaviors and coping skills. Parents are taught how to effectively manage the behaviors and support their teen. Meetings typically take place in the home so the coach can see the teen in their natural environment where the challenging behaviors usually occur. Coaches provide modeling, structure, support and behavioral interventions based on the teen and family’s abilities, interests, and strengths. This can be a great transition tool when teens who have been in a residential program are transitioning back home.

Interesting Articles & Links

What a Parent Can do… READ
Do’s and Don’ts… READ
Teen Suicide Statistics… READ
Suicide Rates Climb In U.S., Especially Among Adolescent Girls… READ or LISTEN

ONLINE & DIGITAL THERAPUETIC RESOURCES

Recommended Digital Resources

Online counseling can be referred to as e-therapy, e-coaching, e-counseling, teletherapy or cyber-counseling. Rather than going into an office setting, a therapist, counselor or coach provides counseling advice and support via your computer with video conferencing or your mobile device.

View Articles

Free 24/7 CRISIS TEXT Line

Text: HELLO to 741-741
Visit website >

USC Telehealth

A completely virtual counseling and therapy clinic that uses the latest online and video technologies to serve a diverse set of clients including adults, children, couples, families, and military personnel. Providing services throughout California
Covered by most major insurance.
Visit website >

Breakthrough

Book an appointment with one of their licensed therapists or
psychiatrists. Meet with them through your computer or smart phone.
Breakthrough offers free online assessments that you can take to learn about your mental health symptoms and potential conditions.
Breakthrough does not offer crisis counseling or emergency services.
Fees vary by therapist.
List of CA therapists >
Visit website >

Ginger.IO Phone App

All-in-one care for stress, anxiety, and depression. Ginger.io offers personalized care plans with chat-based coaching, proactive check-ins, video sessions with therapists, and self-care tools—all through your phone.
GingerCare Membership costs $129 per month.
GingerCare & Therapy membership* costs $249 per month.
GingerCare & Psychiatry membership* costs $349 per month.
Visit website >

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

ACADEMIC SUPPORT, 504, IEP, SCHOLARSHIPS

Academic Support

This is a list of local agencies that provide academic support.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

Santa Barbara Schools

Private & Boarding Schools
- Anacapa High
- Bishop Diego
- Laguna Blanca
- Midland Coed Boarding School [Santa Ynez]
- Providence
- SB Middle School [6th-9th]

SB Unified School District – options for School
- CLASS Truancy program
- QUETZAL PROGRAM
- Alta Vista Independent Studies
- Middle College [partnership with SBCC] view details >
- Posse Program/PEAC [La Cumbre Junior High]

Santa Barbara Agencies

SB County Education Foundation
- Academy of Success
- Summer School

SB School of Squash
Scholarship Foundation SB
SBCC Promise
SELPA

Academic & Tutoring

Manu Kai Educational Services

What is the difference between an Academic Coach and a Tutor?

Academic Coaching vs. Tutoring

ACADEMIC COACH: The process of academic coaching expand to teach students to become more effective learners as well as including elements of traditional tutoring. Coaches develop strategies to assist individuals to become self-sufficient while focusing on strengthening skills in time management, organization, and learning strategies.

TUTOR: Tutors helps individuals understand content on a specific subject [ie: math, english, history].

COALITIONS & ADVOCACY

Coalitions & Task Forces

This is a list of local agencies that are partnering to make a difference for the youth in Santa Barbara County.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

Santa Barbara Agencies

Youth Well Coalition
Santa Barbara Kids Network
South Coast Task Force on Youth Safety
Santa Ynez Valley Youth Coalition
SB Teen Coalition Connection SBTC

Advocacy

This is a list of local agencies that do advocacy in mental health, tobacco prevention and substance abuse.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

Santa Barbara Agencies

COYA – Coalition of Youth Advocates
Families Act – Family Advocacy Program and Family Support Fund
Mental Wellness Center – NAMI
SafeLaunch
SB Transgender Advocacy Network

Advocacy & Support

These are websites, groups and school-based clubs that are working to fight the stigma of mental health, provide support and resources.

StrongMindsProject.orgWe’re a group of passionate young people who’ve struggled with our mental health, and are back to chasing our dreams after finding effective support and resources. We’re here to share our experiences with you, and help you stay strong.
Samhsa.govSAMHSA’s mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities.
Stand BeautifulChloe is the voice of Standbeautiful.me, an anti-bullying movement promoting the acceptance of self and others.

CORE SUPPORT, INTERVENTION, PREVENTION

Core Support, Intervention & Prevention

This is a list of local agencies that provide special programs most of which do not cost anything to the client.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

Santa Barbara Agencies

A Different Point of View
Alternatives to Violence
Arts for Humanity
CADA
City at Peace
City of Santa Barbara
Easy Lift – children’s accessible transportation
Mental Wellness Center
Palabra
People Helping People
SB School of Squash
Transition House
Wilderness Youth Project
YMCA, Transitional-Age Youth Housing Program

COUNSELING PROGRAMS & ASSESSMENTS

Counseling Programs

This is a list of local agencies that provide counseling, therapy and assessment services.

Vew our THERAPISTS section for a list of parent recommended therapists.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

Santa Barbara Agencies

Community Counseling & Education Center
FSA – Family Service Agency
Family Therapy Institute
Hope Counseling Center
Life Development Center
New Beginnings Counseling
Zona Seca
SB County Dept of Behavioral Wellness
Serve youth, 0-18, who are Medi-Cal beneficiaries with serious emotional disturbance and/or substance use disorders. 888.868.1649
SB Neighborhood Clinics
High quality, affordable healthcare, and behavioral health services
Community Counseling & Educational Center
Low cost counseling, support groups, workshops for teens and families.
Family Therapy Institute
Counseling by licensed therapists, low cost clinic provides services by interns.
Hope Counseling Center
Faith based counseling for teens and families by licensed therapists.
UCSB Hosford Clinic
Culturally sensitive, low-cost counseling by supervised graduate students
UCSB Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Clinic
Work with parent and child (2-7) to increase positive behaviors.

College Counseling

SBCC – ASAP & Counseling & Crisis Intervention
USCB
Westmont

INTERVENTION & TREATMENT PROGRAMS

Intervention & Treatment Programs

This is a list of local agencies that provide intervention and treatment programs.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

If you need additional resources, visit our TREATMENT PROGRAMS page for more details about Wilderness, Residential & Therapeutic Boarding Schools, Transition Home Programs and Independent Educational Consultants.

Santa Barbara Agencies
[click on the organization to link to their website]

CADA Detox, Youth & Adult Outpatient Treatment 805.963.1433
Daniel Bryant Youth Treatment Center

Casa Pacifica Centers Residential Treatment, Substance Use Outpatient 805.366.4040

Cottage Hospital Detox, Outpatient, Residential 805.569.8339

Changes Outpatient Wellness Center 805.883.1155

County of SB Probation Dept – Los Prietos Boys Camp

Crescend Health [formerly Phoenix House] Residential Treatment 805.965.3434

Full Spectrum Recovery Therapy, Groups, Intervention 805.966.5100

Giving Tree Sober Living Home for Women 805.455.4568

La Ventan Treatment Center Eating Disorders, Detox, Residential & Outpatient 800.560.8518

Recovery Ranch Sober living for men & male teens 805.705.0766

Recovery Road Outpatient & Mental Health 805.962.7800

Sanctuary Centers of SB Residential & Outpatient 805.569.2785
Stalwart Sober Living Home for Women, 805.965.4989

SB County Dept of Behavioral Wellness 805.884.1600

Vista Del Mar Hospital Inpatient Treatment 877.518.1110
YMCA, Noah’s Anchorage Youth Crisis Shelter 805.963.8775

An Overview of the Process

There are many ways to do this if you are considering sending your child to a residential program. This is just an overview of how the process can work…

STEP 1 – MAKING THE DECISION & FINDING A PROGRAM

Work with a therapist or educational consultant to find the best program for your child.

STEP 2 – TRANSPORTATION

Decide whether you need to use an “escort-transport” service if you don’t think your child will go willingly.

STEP 3 – SHORT TERM OPTIONS

Programs may start with a [option 1] 30 Day Residential Program or [option 2] a Wilderness Program

STEP 4 – LONG TERM RESIDENTIAL

Sometimes short-term programs are enough and other times, a next step is recommended so that your teen can take those newly learned tools and change them into habits.
Some teens will go straight into a Therapeutic or Residential Boarding School without doing a short-term program prior.

STEP 5 – TRANSITIONING HOME

When your teen is ready to come home, the program, your educational consultant and your local therapist can help you with the transition.
There are great books on this process along with worksheets parents can do to prepare.
Some families opt to do the transition on their own and line up support for their teen back home. Others have their teen transition to a regular boarding school. And others opt to use one of the Family Coaches who specialize in this process.

What are Residential Treatment Programs?

THERAPEUTIC BOARDING SCHOOL… is an out-of-home placement that combines therapy and education for students with emotional and behavioral disorders, substance use disorders, or learning disabilities.

RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT PROGRAM… A residential treatment center (RTC), is a live-in health care facility providing therapy for substance abuse, mental illness, or other behavioral problems. Many teen-based programs also provide an academic component with either classes or independent learning.

Both types of boarding usually include… family therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.

What is Wilderness Therapy?

Wilderness therapy is a subset of adventure-based therapy. It is the use of wilderness expeditions for the purpose of therapeutic intervention. There are a range of different types of wilderness therapy programs, with a range of models and approaches.

Most programs employ no force, confrontation, point or level systems, or other overt behavioral modification techniques or models, but stress assertiveness, open communication between staff and students, and are very group-oriented. There is no one standardized model for the therapy, since many models of wilderness therapy are reflective of different programs, although most usually contain the following principles: a series of tasks that are increasingly difficult in order to challenge the patients; teamwork activities for working together; the presence of a psychiatrist or therapist as a group leader; and the use of a therapeutic process such as a reflection journal or self-evaluation.

NOTE: Choose carefully! There are many programs out there and not all of them are reputable. There are treatment programs where abusive situations have been reported. Talk to other families who have used the programs or hire a consultant.

For more information, view the NATSAP website.

Researching Residential Programs

Here are a few sites to help you continue your research as you explore treatment options. It is highly recommended that you hire an Educational Consultant to assist you in this process.

The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs
- Start exploring the types of programs available, especially if looking for a particular school. Locate an educational consultant. Under the parent tab you can find a detailed list of questions to ask when visiting and researching schools and programs.

Independent Educational Consultants Association
- Lists educational consultants by state and type of services they provide.

The Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Industry Council
- Several wilderness treatment programs that have joined together to collaborate and share the best practices to promote program standards for wilderness treatment.

Best Therapeutic Boarding Schools for Troubled Teens
- Free Help Finding the potential Right Therapeutic Boarding School for Your Teenager

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
- This is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization.

JOB TRAINING & LIFE SKILLS

Job Training & Life Skills

This is a list of local agencies that provide job training and life skills programs.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

Santa Barbara Agencies

County of SB Workforce Investment Board – Youth Corps
Hidden Wings
Mental Wellness Center
SB County Education Foundation – Americorps
SB County of Education – Partners In Education
Unity Shoppe
Youth Interactive
yStrive

LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS & GROUPS

Leadership Programs

This is a list of local agencies that provide leadership groups for teens.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

Santa Barbara Agencies

AHA!
City of SB Youth Council
COYA – Coalition of Youth Advocates
Fund for SB – Youth Making Change
Future Leaders of America
Just Communities
High School Clubs
Mental Wellness Center - Youth Wellness Connection Council & Clubs
Pacific Pride
SB Police Activities League – SBPAL
SBMNH – Quasars
UCSB – Freedom4Youth
YMCA – PILOTS, Youth & Government

MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION & TRAINING

Educational Programs

This is a list of agencies that provide various workshops and trainings for parents, caretakers, students, teachers and professionals.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

View our full page on Trainings, Education, Speakers & Workshops >

Visit our CALENDAR to view upcoming workshops.

Santa Barbara Agencies

CADA
CALM
County of SB Public Health – Youth Tobacco Prevention
DVS – Domestic Violence Solutions
FSA – Family Service Agency
Glendon Association
Just Communities
Mental Wellness Center
New Beginnings Community Church – Life In Focus Classes
New Beginnings Counseling
Rape Crisis Center
SafeLaunch
SB Education Foundation – Destructive Behavior in Adolescents
SB COPE
What is Love

RESTORATIVE APPROACHES

SEX EDUCATION, TEEN PREGNANCY, BIRTH CONTROL

SOBER LIVING HOMES & OUTPATIENT

CADA Detox, Youth & Adult Outpatient Treatment 805.963.1433
Daniel Bryant Youth Treatment Center

Casa Pacifica Centers Residential Treatment, Substance Use Outpatient 805.366.4040

Cottage Hospital Detox, Outpatient, Residential 805.569.8339

Changes Outpatient Wellness Center 805.883.1155

County of SB Probation Dept – Los Prietos Boys Camp

Crescend Health [formerly Phoenix House] Residential Treatment 805.965.3434

Full Spectrum Recovery Therapy, Groups, Intervention 805.966.5100

Giving Tree Sober Living Home for Women 805.455.4568

La Ventan Treatment Center Eating Disorders, Detox, Residential & Outpatient 800.560.8518

Recovery Ranch Sober living for men & male teens 805.705.0766

Recovery Road Outpatient & Mental Health 805.962.7800

Sanctuary Centers of SB Residential & Outpatient 805.569.2785
Stalwart Sober Living Home for Women, 805.965.4989

SB County Dept of Behavioral Wellness 805.884.1600

Vista Del Mar Hospital Inpatient Treatment 877.518.1110

YMCA, Noah’s Anchorage Youth Crisis Shelter 805.963.8775

SUPPORT GROUPS - PARENTS & CAREGIVERS

CALM

CADA
- SUPER
- Parent Program

FSA – Family Service Agency

Hospice
- INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING – We provide individual, family, and support group counseling.
- CAMPUS SUPPORT GROUPS – DPHS, SBHS, SMHS
- GROUP: PARENTING AFTER LOSS (PAL) is an eight week group for surviving parents and/or guardians and their children.
- MENTOR: I HAVE A FRIEND – The parent and the mentor volunteer meet first and then the mentor is introduced to the child.

Mental Wellness Center
- SPOT – Support for Parents of Teens – Group [ages 14-25], view details >
- SPOT – Educational Series, view details >
- GRUPO DE APOYO DE FAMILIA ESPAÑOL, view details >
- EDUCATIONAL FAMILY DISCUSSION GROUP, view details >
- FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP, view details >
- NAMI EDUCATIONAL SPEAKER MEETING, view details >

New Beginnings Counseling

SB County Dept of Behavioral Wellness

SUPPORT GROUPS - YOUTH

Youth Support Groups

This is a list of agencies that provide various support groups. Some focus on mental health, substance abuse and others are more general support.

Call ahead to find out more about their programs or visit their websites.

AHA!
- Ally Leadership
- Creative Groups
- Girls Group
- Guys Group
- Outdoor Group
- Carpinteria Group

AL-ANON/ALATEEN

CADA – Council on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse
- YSS – Youth Service Specialist [school-based]
- START [Carpinteria school-based]
- SUPER
- Friday Night Live & Club Live
- Reconnecting Youth [school-based class]
- Daniel Bryant Youth Treatment Center groups

CALM – Child Abuse Listening & Mediation

Casa de la Raza

Changes Outpatient Wellness Center

Community Action Commission

Community Council & Education Center
- Peace UP… An interactive curriculum for 5th-12th grade students that strengthens self esteem and addresses the vital issues of harassment, bullying and violence.
- SpeakOUT… is a comprehensive program at CCEC offering groups, individual and family counseling, outreach and resources to LGBTQ youth.

Young Life & Wyldlife Caernaum

Faith Based Youth Groups at local churches
[Calvary Chapel, Ocean Hills, Reality SB, SB Community Church]

FSA – Family Service Agency

Hospice

Housing Authority – groups

Mental Wellness Center
- KEEPING CONNECTED This FREE group brings together teens (14-18yrs) to learn emotion management in a fun, safe place. Come discuss life, work on communication and social skills and enjoy time with your peers! Facilitated by Isis Castaneda and Lupe Luna.
- WRAP GROUPS [Wellness Recovery Action Plan] for teens aims to provide people with a mental health diagnoses an aspect of control over their wellness and recovery.
- MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS is not a group, it is a curriculum offered in 6th & 9th grade classrooms when requested by teachers and is designed to introduce students to mental health issues.

New Beginnings Community Church – Life In Focus Classes

Pacific Pride
- PROUD Youth Group

Rape Crisis Center

Recovery Road

SB County Dept of Behavioral Wellness

College Support Groups

SBCC
MIDDLE COLLEGE at SBCC –
UCSB CAPS , PAC, Guachos For Recovery , Life of the Party Group

TRANSITION PROGRAMS & CONSULTANTS

What are Transition/Aftercare Programs?

Hiring a family coach/mentor can be a great support when teens who have been in a residential program are transitioning back home.

Continuing Care: Coaches are trained to support families in transition and offer practical direction and help set realistic expectations and come up with a concrete plan of action.

Family Coach: This is often an intensive service that focuses on reducing unmanageable behaviors that are currently impacting the teen’s functioning at home or school. The coach helps the teen learn new ways of reducing and managing behaviors and increase positive behaviors and coping skills. Parents are taught how to effectively manage the behaviors and support their teen. Meetings typically take place in the home so the coach can see the teen in their natural environment where the challenging behaviors usually occur. Coaches provide modeling, structure, support and behavioral interventions based on the teen and family’s abilities, interests, and strengths.

Coyote Coast
Designed to provide therapeutic support services to teens and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, and substance-related difficulties. Mentoring along with parent coaching helps families create a plan for troubled at home, at risk teens as well as extremely helpful in supporting the entire family when transitioning your teen back home from a program.

Homeward Bound
Created to fill the gap between out-of-home treatment programs and the realities of home life or independent living and quickly discovered that the processes were highly successful when used as a preventative measure as well. They believes that every family can benefit greatly from the practical and customized education, coaching, and real-time support that they can provide.

VIVE: Family Support Program
Works to heal troubled kids and family relationships and are often called upon by parents who are experiencing a chaotic or turbulent time in their families. Vive supports young people and their families who find themselves struggling with a difficult transition or life event, or who are experiencing mild to moderate emotional issues.

360 Program
360 helps adolescents and young adults successfully transition from treatment to home, college, or independence. It provides the family with wrap-around support to help parents as skills are transferred from treatment to the real-world setting.

YOUTH & TEEN CENTERS

YOUTH TRANSPORT-ESCORT SERVICE

What is a Youth Transport-Escort Service?

A transport service specializes in the transportation of at-risk youth to private programs and schools. They are designed to help by providing safe transportation and a therapeutic transition. Escorts are trained to anticipate resistance from the teens, so they are trained to look for signs of anxiety or attempts to run and have a plan for how to respond.

Transport services are usually a last resort for parents to transport their teens to programs/treatment. If you are using this option, ask for a referral from friends, your therapist or educational consultant. You want this process to go as smoothly as possible.

Teen transport services can be expensive since it usually involves airfare for both the teen and their escort team as well as their fees for service.

The process… Most escorts arrive at your residence early in the morning or very late at night to ensure that the teen is at home and sleeping. The parents meet the escorts at the front door with the clothes for the child to wear during the transport. In addition they have any necessary luggage packed. The escorts are led to the teen’s room, the parents wake the teen and introduce the escorts and tell their teen that the escorts are there to take them to the program. The parents are then asked to leave the room so as not to be seen by the child. The escorts get the teen dressed and take them directly out to the car. They are placed in the back seat with the child locks on and one escort will sit beside them. The team sets boundaries for the teen and explains what behavior is acceptable. The escorts call the parents as soon as their teen has been dropped at the program and a report is given to the parents on the behavior and mood of the teen during the transport.

The negatives… The process of being forcibly removed from the home can be traumatic for both the teen and their parents. Some teens describe it as feeling like they were kidnapped. Parents and teens will sometimes hear these escorts referred to as “Goons”.

A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support.

Mental illness is not something that happens to other people, it touches all of us.

Crisis & relapse happen in isolation ~ recovery happens in community.

Empathy is the starting point for creating a community and taking action. It’s the impetus for creating change.

Depression is an illness, not a weakness and it is nothing to be ashamed of.

BOOKS & ARTICLES

ARTICLES • Mental Health, Cell Phone Addiction, College Life & more

ARTICLES

Number of children going to ER with suicidal thoughts, attempts doubles, study finds
By Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez, CNN article

Why Are So Many Teen Athletes Struggling With Depression?
By Linda Flanigan article

There’s no evidence that hardening schools to make kids safer from gun violence actually works
By Valerie Strauss article

Why I Don’t Say My Son ‘Committed’ Suicide article
By Desiree Woodland

Teen Depression and Anxiety: Why the Kids Are Not Alright article
By Susanna Schrobsdorff / TIME

It’s Not Stigma, It’s Discrimination article
By Sue Abderholden

Pittsburgh researchers may have found 'cure' for some untreatable depression, article
By Sean D. Hamill / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The Binge Breaker • Tristan Harris believes Silicon Valley is addicting us to our phones. He’s determined to make it stop. article
By Bianca Bosker / The Atlantic

Is Your Child a Phone ‘Addict’? article
By Ana Homayoun / New York Times

How (and When) to Limit Kids' Tech Use article
By Melanie Pinola / New York Times

Don’t Retire Too Soon: Parenting During The Adolescent Years article

When the State of the World Overwhelms You article
strategies we can adopt that can help us stay strong and centered
By Carolyn Joyce

Why Borderline Personality Disorder Is Misdiagnosed, article
By Alan E. Fruzzetti, Ph.D.

‘13 Reasons Why’ Through the Lens of A Clinical Psychologist, article
By Amy E. Ellis, Ph.D.

Stop chasing the drug! Focus on ACE's, article
By Jane Stevens

Girls Daring Greatly, article
By Sabrina Marie Hadeed

Going Wild, article
By Bethany Bray

Mental Health In Schools: A Hidden Crisis Affecting Millions Of Students, article
By Meg Anderson & Kavitha Cardoza
Part One – NPR Ed series on mental health in schools.

Staying Connected While Your Child Is Away at Wilderness Camp, article
By Meghan Vivo

Why College Dating Is So Messed Up? article
By Charlotte Lieberman, Cosmopolitan

Ivy League Addiction, article
By Charlotte Lieberman, Cosmopolitan, Sept. 2016

The Coddling of the American Mind, article
By Greg Lukianoff & Jonathan Haidt, The Atlantic

Why Did a Popular, Smart, Athletic College Freshman Kill Herself? article
By NICOLE WEISENSEE EGAN

Suicide on Campus and the Pressure of Perfection, article
By Julie Scelfo, NY Times

How to help someone who is suicidal article
by Jason Cherkis

Are Kids' Sports Too Competitive? article
By Carol Mithers, Parenting

Unfriended; letter from mom to daughter, article
By Amanda Waggener

How Helicopter Parenting Can Cause Binge Drinking, article
By Caitlin Flanigan / The New Yorker

Affirmative Consent: Are Students Really Asking? article
By Sandy Keenan, NY Times

The Struggle with Struggling: Mental Health Awareness Month article
By Allie Marie Smith

A siblings' Guide to Psychosis article
By Sharon Mulder, Elizabeth Lines

Four Steps to Choosing a College Major article
By Nathan Gebhard, NY Times

The Real Skinny on Freshman Year article
By Michelle Slatalla, NY Times

Advice for New Students From Those Who Know (Older Students) article
By NY Times

10 Social Apps Every Parent of a Teen Should Know article
By Megan Maas

Building Resilience in Children, article
By Healthy Children Magazine

Professional Parenting; Raising fully functioning adults, article
By Luis Moro

Shutting Down Five Misconceptions About Depression article
By Caroline Kaufman

Supporting Someone with Depression

Articles to help you understand depression…

Know the Signs video & facts >>
9 best way to support someone with depression >>
PBS Videos on Depression >>
Teen connection videos >>
Preventing and Addressing Teenage Depression >>
Hope Lives: Prevention Teen Suicide

The FACTS, ReachOut.com >>
printable sheets on depression, anxiety, substance use, eating, self-harm, etc…
REAL Stories, ReachOut.com >>

I am worried about a FRIEND, fact sheet >>
I am worried about MYSELF, fact sheet >>
Getting HELP in a CRISIS >>
ReachOut Videos >>
Friend2Friend >>
Online, interactive experience. It prepares high schools students to support others by practicing a challenging conversation with a friend who may be suffering from psychological distress.

Suicide Prevention Videos & Stigma for Students

Food For the Brain

Websites with information on how food can make a difference with your moods…

Stories of Videos & Recovery

Live, Love, Laugh Foundation
Stories of recovery… Meet people who have to share their stories – real life experiences in overcoming mental health issues of various kinds. Listen to how they never gave up, watch their battles and victories and read about their success.
Read more

Bring Change 2 Mind
Stories from our community… Learning about the experiences of others can help reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and give those who are suffering the courage to seek help. Remember, you are not alone.
Read more

Let's Erase the Stigma
Taking back the narrative… Search through the brave individuals who choose to live boldly, and share their stories in hopes of changing conversations. Among these individuals, you’ll find: diagnoses, raw experiences, barriers to seeking help, common misconceptions, etc.

BOOKS • Addiction & Eating Disorders

BOOKS • Adoption & Mental Illness

BOOKS • Co-Dependency, Trauma, Self-Care, Mindfullness

GOOD READS...

Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead
By Brené Brown

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
By Bessel Van der Kolk

Carry On, Warrior: The Power of Embracing Your Messy, Beautiful Life
By Glennon Doyle Melton

Facing Codependence: What It Is, Where It Comes from, How It Sabotages Our Lives
By Pia Mellody

The Knight in Rusty Armor
By Robert Fisher

Choice Theory: A New Psychology of Personal Freedom
By William Glasser

Mindfulness Skills for Kids & Teens: A Workbook for Clinicians & Clients
By Debra Burdick

BOOKS • Depression, Suicide, ADHD, Personality Disorders

GOOD READS...

Mental Health for the Whole Child: Moving Young Clients from Disease & Disorder to Balance & Wellness
By Scott M. Shannon

The Triple Bind: Saving Our Teenage Girls from Today's Pressures and Conflicting Expectations
By Stephen Hinshaw & Rachel Kranz

The Disappearing Girl: Learning the Language of Teenage Depression
By Lisa Machoian

CBT Strategies for Anxious and Depressed Children and Adolescents: A Clinician's Toolkit
By Eduardo L. Bunge PhD, Javier Mandil, Andrés J. Consoli PhD, Martín Gomar Lic

Stop Walking on Eggshells: Taking Your Life Back When Someone You Care About Has Borderline Personality Disorder
By Paul Mason

Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide
By Kay Redfield Jamison

The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression
By Andrew Solomon

The Parent Handbook on Childhood and Adolescent Depression (Free PDF)
By Erika's Lighthouse

I Am Not Sick, I Don't Need Help!
How to Help Someone with Mental Illness Accept Treatment.
By Xavier Amador

Additional READS Recommended by Erika's Lighthouse >

BOOKS • Faith Based Addiction, Mental Health, Sexual Identity

GOOD READS...

Right Click: Parenting Your Teenager In A Digital Media World
by Art Bamford, Kara Powell, Brad M Griffin

Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate
By Justin Lee

Tough Guys and Drama Queens: How Not to Get Blindsided by Your Child's Teen Years
By Mark Gregston

Space At The Table: Conversations Between An Evangelical Theologian And His Gay Son
By Brad Harper

Connecting with college students over break: they’re bringing home more than their laundry
By Steve Argue, PhD

BOOKS • Navigating College Years

BOOKS • Parenting, Understanding Wilderness & Therapeutic Programs

GOOD READS...

The Parallel Process - Growing Alongside Your Adolescent or Young Adult Child in Treatment
By Krissy Pozatek

The Anatomy of Peace: Resolving the Heart of Conflict
By The Arbinger Institute

The Parenting Pyramid
By Arbinger Institute

Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life
By Marshall B. Rosenberg

Screamfree Parenting: The Revolutionary Approach to Raising Your Kids by Keeping Your Cool
By Hal Edward Runkel

Stop Walking on Eggshells: Taking Your Life Back When Someone You Care About Has Borderline Personality Disorder
By Paul Mason

The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed
By Jessica Lahey

An Unchanged Mind: The Problem of Immaturity in Adolescence
By John McKinnon

The Triple Bind: Saving Our Teenage Girls from Today's Pressures and Conflicting Expectations
By Stephen Hinshaw & Rachel Kranz

Overloaded and Underprepared: Strategies for Stronger Schools and Healthy, Successful Kids
By Denise Pope

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
By Bessel Van der Kolk

BOOKS • Self Harm

GOOD READS...

Cutting: Understanding and Overcoming Self-Mutilation
By Steven Levenkron

Fiction Books on Self-Harm

It can help as a parent to read a fiction book on self harm to have a better understanding of the thought process of your teen and the lengths they go through to keep their secret. See other book suggestions farther down under the Teens & Children section of this page.

Willow by Julia Hoban
Blade Silver: Color Me Scarred by Melody Carlson

BOOKS • Sexual Identity, Abuse, Promiscuity

BOOKS • Social Media & Digital/Gaming Addiction

BOOKS • for Teens & Youth

GOOD READS TEENS...

Beyond the Blues: A Workbook to Help Teens Overcome Depression
By Lisa Schab

Ophelia Speaks: Adolescent Girls Write About Their Search for Self
By Sara Shandler

How to Deal: Real-World Tools for Surviving Your Teenage Years
By Jerry Weichman

GOOD READS TEEN FICTION...

It's Kind of Funny Story
By Ned Vizzini

The Language of Goldfish
By Zibby Oneal

A Corner Of The Universe
By Ann Martin

Thirteen Reasons Why
By Jay Asher

Speak
By Laurie Halse Anderson

Wintergirls
By Laurie Halse Anderson

Out of My Mind
By Sharon M Draper

George
By Alex Gino

Wild Bird
By Wendelin Van Draanen

GOOD READS YOUTH...

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key
By Jack Gantos

It's Hard to be a Verb
By Julia Cook & Carrie Hartman

When Sophie Gets Angry - Really, Really Angry
By Molly Bang

Sorry!
By Trudy Ludwig

My Many Colored Days
By Dr. Seuss

My Secret Bully
By Trudy Ludwig

How Are You Peeling?
By Saxton Freymann

Little Mouse's Big Book of Fears
By Emily Gravett

Just Kidding
By Trudy Ludwig

The Feelings Book
By Todd Parr

Gruff The Grump
By Steve Smallman

Chrysanthemum
By Kevin Henkes

The Way I Feel
By Janan Cain

BOOKS • Transitioning home after treatment

BOOKS • Understanding the Teen Brain

TRAININGS • WORKSHOPS

Transforming Conflict With an Outward Mindset

Based on Arbinger’s bestselling book The Anatomy of Peace, this course teaches participants to utilize Arbinger’s frameworks to transform previously frustrating and insurmountable conflicts. Participants are equipped with a personalized strategic plan built to address and transform conflicts within their organizations.

Coaching and Mentoring With an Outward Mindset

Outward Mindset Coaching Skills for Managers provides organizational managers with a peer-group learning environment that supports their personal mastery of Arbinger’s concepts in life and work. The program is designed for organizational leaders with a basic foundation in Arbinger’s ideas who seek to build on that foundation to improve their leadership effectiveness.

The Anatomy of Peace 8-Week Course by Phone

Based on Arbinger’s best-selling book – The Anatomy of Peace, this 8-week phone course takes a deeper look at applying its principles and creating healthy, rewarding relationships in our lives. This offering of the class approved for 8 CCEU units with the ICF. What to Expect The Anatomy of Peace course by phone provides the help you need in applying the principles found in the book. It offers weekly dialogue, coaching, and in-between practice as you acquire a deeper ‘heart…

SPEAKERS

UNDERSTANDING MH & GOOD ARTICLES

Erika's Lighthouse... We educate school communities about teen depression, eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness and empower teens to take charge of their mental health.
Recommended Reads >
Understanding depression >
Treat depression >
Cope with depression >
Help someone with depression >
Teen Depression test >

Go Ask Alice
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Active Minds
Family Communication Tips
American Psychiatric Association Foundation
Information, including symptoms and treatment
Find a Psychiatrist
American Psychological Association
Articles on health and emotional wellness
Find a Psychologist
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Find Support
National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI
Information and support
National Council for Behavioral Health
Articles on mental health
National Institute of Mental Health
Mental Health Information
Mental Health America
Mental Health Screening Tools
Treatment and Support
MentalHealth.gov
How to Talk about Mental Health
What to Look For
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative
Resources for Veterans and Military Families
World Health Organization
International Mental Health Information