Affordable Mental health Support for Teens: FSU’s Innovative Approach to Tackling Emotional Struggles
Adolescence is a turbulent time, marked by intense emotions, identity development, and the challenges of growing up. For many teenagers, navigating these years can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with issues like self-harm or suicidal thoughts.Recognizing this, the Florida State University Psychology Clinic has launched an affordable solution to help teens in need: the Teen Emotion Skills Training Group.
At just $12 per session, this program is a lifeline for families who might otherwise struggle to afford therapy. According to the National Institutes of Health, traditional therapy sessions can cost between $75 and $200 without insurance, making mental health care inaccessible for many. The FSU program eliminates this barrier, offering a cost-effective choice that requires no insurance.
A Sensitive Time for Emotional Growth
katie Broshek, a PhD psychology student involved in organizing the group, emphasizes the importance of addressing emotional struggles during adolescence. “Adolescence is a really sensitive time for things like emotion regulation, identity development,” she explains. While some teens may navigate these challenges independently, others face more severe issues.
“Sometimes that can be more severe, where teens are struggling with things like self-harm or thinking about suicide. That’s when you need to reach out for help,” Broshek adds. The NIH reports that 13 to 17 percent of teenagers engage in self-harming behaviors, with these tendencies often beginning as early as age 11 and peaking between 15 and 17.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy: A Proven Approach
The FSU program utilizes dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), a proven method for helping teens manage intense emotions. DBT focuses on equipping participants with practical skills to navigate challenging situations, change problematic thoughts, and regulate emotions effectively.
“As a clinic, we are meant to be short-term care,” Broshek notes. “We give you what you need, and then our goal is that you don’t need us. And that you can navigate some of these really tough things stronger.”
Other Local Resources for Teens
While the FSU program is a standout option, reporter Alberto Camargo also explored other affordable mental health resources in the area. Leon County Schools provides certified in-house psychologists for students, with a list of professionals available online. Camargo also reached out to organizations like the Children’s Home Society and Neighborhood Medical Center,tho neither was available for comment at the time of reporting.
How to Get Involved
The FSU Teen Emotion Skills Training Group is currently recruiting participants, with weekly sessions set to begin once the ideal group size of 4 to 10 teens is reached. This small-group format ensures personalized attention and a supportive environment for participants.
| Key Details | Facts |
|————————————-|———————————————————————————|
| Cost per Session | $12 (no insurance required) |
| Therapy type | Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) |
| Target Age Group | Teens aged 11-17 |
| Group Size | 4-10 participants |
| Session Frequency | Weekly |
For families seeking affordable mental health support for their teens, the FSU program offers a promising solution. By addressing emotional struggles early, this initiative aims to empower teens to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and strength.
If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, don’t hesitate to reach out. Mental health care shoudl never be out of reach, and with options like the FSU Teen Emotion Skills Training Group, it doesn’t have to be.
