JFS professionals are experienced working with teens and are skilled at speaking their language. The goal of teen programming is to provide useful, relevant and current information on the big topics youth face today. This is accomplished through preventive education, individual counseling, peer support and referrals where necessary. Some programs are aimed at youth, others collaborate with educators, local synagogues and community organizations.

Helping teens cope with stress and anxiety stemming from school, social situations, peer groups or family situations is common. The pace of life and prevalence of social media exacerbates what today’s youth juggle. Relevant topics include:

• online and social media safety
• alcohol and drug use
• self-esteem
• body image
• eating disorders
• peer relationships
• effective communication
• teen driving risks
• mental health and depression
• suicide prevention