If your child is going through a mental health challenge, we can provide you and your family answers, support, and hope.

Information & Referral Services

Mental Health Connect is our free, confidential information and referral service. Email us at mentalhealth@jfcsboston.org or call 781-693-5562 to talk with a JF&CS mental health professional who will take the time to understand your situation and connect you with expert advice and appropriate resources, including matches to therapists.

Navigating the Youth Mental Health System

Understanding and attempting to access the right mental health services for your child and family can be absolutely overwhelming for the parent of a child or adolescent in distress. Even knowing where to start is daunting. By meeting with an expert clinician and family navigator from our Youth Mental Health Supports team, parents and caregivers gain the knowledge, hands-on guidance and equipment necessary to confidently access the resources and services needed to put their family at ease. To learn more, call 781-693-5562 or email your questions to mentalhealth@jfcsboston.org.

Sibshops

Children who have siblings with disabilities and mental health challenges face life-long and complex emotional challenges. Sibshops, our recreational program for these children and teens, enables sharing of experiences in a supportive and non-judgmental environment, with other siblings who understand.

Sibshops is a nationally acclaimed program of fun workshops for kids ages 8-12 and teens 13 and up who have siblings with special needs. Each Sibshop gives participants opportunity to participate in recreational activities that encourage sharing, laughter, and fun! Kids will have the chance to meet and connect with other kids, who also have siblings with special needs.

Our monthly meetings include fun activities like laser tag, snow tubing, pottery painting, and other exciting field trips. At Sibshops, siblings will:

• Meet other siblings of children with special needs and have a great time together
• Obtain peer support and education in a fun and recreational environment
• Share experiences in a supportive and non-judgmental environment, with other siblings who understand

There is a one time fee for Sibshops of $100 for the year. Subsidies are available. Registration is open to anyone. Check out our flyer!

Registration is required. Please contact Valerie Maio, Manager, Inclusive Programs for Children and Families at vmaio@jfcsboston.org or 781-409-1919.