The LifeLine Program was developed during the COVID-19 pandemic to address the urgent need for mental health support and crisis intervention for our clients. In 2022, the program expanded to provide short-term 1:1 Mental Health Counseling and Mental Health Self-Care Training to mentees, volunteer youth mentors, and families. LifeLine addresses gaps in existing services and long wait times, offering immediate mental health support and strategies to manage stress and anxiety.
LifeLine is a core part of Youth Assisting Youth’s innovative wraparound approach to empowering youth. It works alongside our 1:1 Peer Mentoring Program, Virtual Tutoring Program, Boys & Girls Empowerment Programs and inclusive group activities to provide a holistic support system. This integrated approach helps youth overcome mental health challenges, build resilience, and develop leadership and social / emotional skills
1:1 Mental Health Counseling
Mental Health Self-Care Training
LifeLine provides short-term 1:1 Mental Health Counseling that focuses on stress, anxiety and other immediate mental health needs. Counseling supports mentees, youth mentors and parents/guardians, providing strategies tailored to their unique needs. It also strengthens mentee-mentor relationships by tailoring weekly activities, and improves family dynamics.
To Date, LifeLine has delivered over 400 1:1 mental health counseling sessions to more than 150 participants, with 96% reporting improved mental health.
LifeLine provides Mental Health Self-Care Training to equip participants with practical tools for managing their mental health. Workshops are designed for mentees, youth mentors, and parents/guardians, focusing on sustainable techniques that support ongoing self-care and foster positive mental health. Training helps participants navigate challenges and build resilience in their daily lives.
To Date, Lifeline has delivered 30 mental health self-care training workshops to more than 400 participants, with 98% reporting that they learned a new strategy to manage stress and anxiety.
