Mental health prevention and education for McHenry County youth

Prevention and Education targets youth at risk of runaway or homelessness, suicide, child abuse, child sexual exploitation, and teen pregnancy and parenting in McHenry County. Our prevention education happens on three tiers: one-time classroom/community presentations, 12-week small group counseling, and ongoing individual case management support.

Presentation topics:

• Suicide Prevention
• Runaway and Homeless Youth
• Child Sexual Abuse Prevention/ Erin’s Law
• Teen Dating Violence
• Other Topics as Requested by School Districts or Community Partners

Group Counseling curriculum:

Let’s Talk (12-weeks for youth at risk of runaway, suicide, drop-out, or justice involvement)

Parenting Group (12-weeks for expectant and parenting teens)

Case Management:

• Referrals to other services as needed (childcare, housing assistance, WIC, etc.)
• Information about nurturing and attachment
• Education about pregnancy and early childhood development
• Safety planning
• Mental health assessment
• Treatment plans
• Connection to therapy services
• Educational advocacy
• Assistance in preventing another unplanned pregnancy
• Home visits if additional support is needed