The Family Support Counseling Program provides targeted, short-term counseling support to children and adolescents (ages 25 and under) who are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation. CHADS licensed and provisionally-licensed counselors and social workers utilize evidence-based Brief Solution-Focused Therapy interventions to help their clients set goals, develop coping skills, and find hope for the future. CHADS clinicians are thoroughly trained in comprehensive risk assessment and safety-planning, and are uniquely qualified to address thoughts of suicide. Risk assessment and safety planning are at the forefront of every session for clients who have experienced thoughts of suicide, and referrals for additional treatment are provided when appropriate.
“The counselor did such a great job helping my child. He is such a gifted man and so caring.”
“CHADS worked with me and my family to restore a relationship between us.”
Suicide rates across the nation have risen by more than 25% from 1999-2016.
During the same time period, the suicide rate in Missouri has risen by more than 36%.
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for adolescents ages 15-19 years.
NIMH recognizes counseling as an effective intervention for reducing suicide risk.
Programs and Services
New Support Group for 2023
CHADS Coalition is excited to launch its first Survivors of Suicide Attempt (SOSA) Support Group in partnership with Behavioral Health Network! Groups are open to participants ages 18-25 and will take place in person at the CHADS Office (South County) on Thursdays at 6pm and will last 8 weeks.
SOSA Groups, developed and supported by the Didi Hirsh Suicide Prevention Center in Los Angeles, “offers a unique opportunity for suicide attempt survivors to connect with others with a shared experience. They know that if they are feeling suicidal, they always have someone they can reach out to who will understand their feelings without overreacting…” After establishing and creating bonds among group members during the initial weeks, the focus will shift to learning tools and skills to help prevent future suicide attempts.
Other Support Offerings
School-Based Counseling
The CHADS Family Support program has clinicians embedded one day per week in 33 area middle schools and high schools, including schools in St. Louis County, St. Louis City, St. Charles County, and Jefferson County. School-based services are offered free-of-charge and include both individual counseling and group interventions. Referrals for school-based counseling are made by the school counselor, social worker, or principal. Please reach out to the guidance department at your child's school to inquire about the availability of CHADS counseling within their school building.
High School Depression and Anxiety Support Group
This group, for high school students ages 14-18, is a peer support group for those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and related issues. CHADS provides support, guidance, and resources for teens who are experiencing an emotionally difficult time. There is no out-of-pocket cost. This group is usually offered once in the Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. For more information contact Candra Fiorini (candra@chadscoalition.org).
Office Counseling
Office counseling is provided at our South County location with pricing on a sliding scale, and flexible appointments are available. Office counseling consists of one-on-one sessions with the child or adolescent, with parent involvement and communication as appropriate for safety planning. Psychoeducational support groups are held at the office at various times throughout the year as well. Please call the Family Support Warm Line at 314.952.8274 between the hours of 9:00am and 5:30pm, Monday through Friday, to schedule an office appointment or for more information about Family Support services.
Adult Survivors of Suicide Support Group
The Survivors of Suicide Support Group is an open, peer-facilitated group for adults (age 18 and above) who have lost a loved one to suicide. The group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6:45-8pm. Meetings are normally held at the CHADS South County office, but are currently being held remotely due to COVID-19. For more information contact Kellen Wolters at kellen.wolters@gmail.com.
Client rights and responsibilities
Family Support Program Contact:
314.952.8274
This warm line is available Monday through Friday, 9:00am-5:30pm
Call to schedule an appointment, get more information about the Family Support Program,
or for referral information for additional mental health support.
Monitored by a licensed or provisionally-licensed clinician
Calls will be returned within 24 business hours
In crisis situations, please call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or 911.
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