In March, a group of 11 teens began meeting weekly for group therapy, providing a safe space where they can discuss issues they may be facing and support one another.
An abundance of research has shown that teens were hit particularly hard by COVID during a critical time in their social and emotional development. The focus is on treating anxiety and learning mindfulness skills.
MSW student and social services manager Jennifer Dutton is happy with the teens’ progress. Thanks to a generous grant from the Jewish Heritage Fund for Excellence, this group can continue to meet throughout the year. After summer, the group will transform from meeting to discuss mental health into meeting to discuss community organizing. With support from adults, the teens will take the lead and learn, grow, and take steps to positively impact their families and communities.
