Youth Linkages Network Retreat for those working with youth to facilitate stronger referrals for families to mental health services

(Santa Barbara, CA, February 20)  YouthWell, in collaboration with SBC BWell and SBCEO will be hosting an in-person retreat on February 23rd, from 11:00am-2:00pm for the Youth Linkages Network.

The theme is FOSTERING HOPE FOR THE FUTURE and our guest speaker is Kathryn Goetzke – she is the founder of Hopeful Mindsets as well as an author and podcast host. She has proven through her work that hope is a teachable skill, and will share her Shine Hope framework that is built into her Hopeful Minds on the College Campus evidence-based programming. Kathryn is author of The Biggest Little Book About Hope, host of The Hope Matrix Podcast, a representative for the World Federation for Mental Health at the United Nations and is excited to share what she knows with those working with youth and families in Santa Barbara on how to activate hope in the community to transform lives.

There will also be a short panel with three local students sharing their perspective on what is working and what could be improved when it comes to addressing mental health in our schools and community.

The retreat is open to navigators, family advocates, helpline staff, school counselors, probation officers, and anyone involved in linking families to services. Lunch and a special care kit will be provided to ensure participants have an enjoyable and rejuvenating experience at this free event.

“With the needs increasing, there are waiting lists that provide more barriers to mental health services. It is important that we make strong referrals and address mental health challenges early rather than waiting until youth are in crisis. This requires those working with youth to have a better understanding of available services in Santa Barbara County,” said Rachael Steidl, Executive Director of YouthWell. “Our hope is to provide more support and education to those making the referrals.”

The Youth Linkages Network convenes monthly for those working to connect families with services. The monthly zoom meetings include informative panels on various topics in order to better understand mental health challenges and learn how to create stronger referrals to services for youth and their families. Meetings are designed to foster collaboration and ensure that professionals are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of families in our community. Learn more at youthwell.org/partners.

For more information and to RSVP, please contact info@youthwell.org

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One of the biggest reasons people don’t seek help or support when they are struggling with a mental health challenge is because of the stigma and shame associated with it. YouthWell focuses on education, prevention, support, and early intervention, connecting youth through age 25 and their families to mental health and wellness resources before the crisis. YouthWell also provides an online Youth & Family Mental Health & Wellness Resource Directory for Santa Barbara County. For more information, visit YouthWell.org