Prevention is Key: YMCA Counseling Services
Nearly every parent worries that their child will be impacted by substance use. Many young people will experiment with drugs/alcohol or substances as a way of coping with troubles, and it can become a slippery slope.
YMCA Counseling Services believes that prevention is an essential protective factor. Intervening at the first sign of problematic behavior and decisions is a truly impactful means of preventing escalating troubles. The Y offers parenting classes and counseling services for families and children in an effort to arm them with essential skills and tools. Through a multi-faceted prevention program, parents can turn to the YMCA to reduce the risk of substance use in their child before it spirals into addiction.
According to Cindy Melera, Director of Prevention Services, the program is open to anyone who wants to improve their parenting skills, enhance their child’s coping and life skills and address problematic areas. That’s why starting early is key.
“The real importance in prevention counseling is to try to reach kids when they’re young. If a child is displaying behavioral problems in school at an elementary level, for example, and are struggling with anger or sadness or having difficulty socially, it might be a sign that they could use some extra support and prevention,” she says. Their prevention program consists of five services, outlined below:
Parenting Wisely. A three-part, evidence-based parent training program focused on strengthening family relationships and reducing behavioral issues.
Prevention Counseling. One-on-one counseling for children and teens who are engaging in high-risk behaviors, to help manage stress, handle anger, resist peer pressure, and replace harmful habits with positive ones.
Anger Management. A program for adolescents ages 14–18 that works to lessen anger, aggression, and outbursts while building healthier coping strategies.
Strengthening Families. A family-based skills program proven to improve parenting practices, reduce behavior problems and substance use in children, and boost social and academic skills.
Children of Divorce. A 12-week supportive program that helps children adjust to major family transitions by exploring their emotions and developing stronger coping tools during a difficult time.
The prevention program is offered at the South Shore YMCA, 3911 Richmond Avenue. Parents can reach out at 718-948-3232. In addition, schools are welcome to inquire about in-house curriculums on prevention. Visit ymcanyc.org/locations/counseling-service to learn more.
