Teen Group Therapy

LIFT was able to add free Teen Group Therapy with a licensed counselor to students during the ‘22-’23 school year. Over the course of the year we had five students participate. As stated by the group’s counselor the year met a need in the lives of our students. “We had a small but great group of students who participated in group therapy at LIFT this year. All of them were consistently open to sharing about their lives despite it being challenging and vulnerable at times. Each week we explored topics that were relevant to students including grief, boundaries, building healthy relationships, family dynamics, self-harm, and self-esteem. We realized the group functioned best when we incorporated some kind of activity, and these games and activities served to help reinforce emotion regulation, communication, and teamwork skills in the students. When topics arose that required a higher level of treatment, group members and parents readily accepted referrals for individual therapy or another form of mental healthcare. All in all, it was a really great year, and I’m grateful for the chance to get to know some of these kids!”

Mentoring for me is connecting with a different generation, sharing thoughts, hopefully leading to a better understanding and appreciation for what that younger person might be walking through. We need them as much as they need us. Mentoring is a win, win for everyone!

- LIFT Mentor