Family Support
Enhancing Teen Resilience with Family Support at The Loft
Why Family Support?
The Loft at Eight Corners is here to help teens and their families. We work directly with teens to engage and empower them to support their own mental wellness and develop resilience. We also know that teens do not exist in a vacuum; they are part of families and that parents and caregivers also need resources and support. In families, all members contribute to how the family operates, and as a teen gets support, learns new skills, or invests in self-care, chances are that an adult may have questions, too. The Family Support Specialist at The Loft provides information, a listening ear, resources, and skills parents can use in their families. No question is too big or too small!
Services for Parents, Caregivers, and Families
- One-on-one sessions with a Family Support Specialist in person, on the phone, or via Zoom. Available Sunday-Thursday. You can drop in or set up a time in advance.
- Links to community resources, including finding a therapist or psychiatrist, information on higher levels of care, resources to help with 504/IEP meetings, skills-building resources, etc.
- Monthly parent workshops at The Loft with topics aimed at improving family relationships and providing parents with education and resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my child eligible to participate at The Loft at Eight Corners?
High school students entering 9th-12th are welcome. Students do not have to attend a specific school.
Do you only serve the Brookfield area?
We are not bound by a geographic area and welcome teens from everywhere.
Can I force my child to participate in The Loft at Eight Corners?
We encourage teens to participate of their own volition.
Do you offer free therapy?
We offer peer support utilizing Young Adult Recovery Support Specialists. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) defines recovery support specialists as individuals with lived experience of recovery from a mental health condition, substance use disorder (SUD), or both, who are trained to support other individuals and their families in recovery. Complementary to the work of other health care providers, Recovery Support Specialists (RSSs) help individuals engage in their treatment, access essential resources, encourage hope and resilience for recovery, and advocate for an individual’s needs.
Should I accompany my teen to The Loft at Eight Corners?
You can accompany your teen and wait for them in the lobby, but it is not required (except if you need to sign paperwork). Please feel free to meet with our Family Support Specialist with any questions while you wait.
Do I need to fill out the forms with my teen?
We encourage parental/guardian consent for all participants. If your teen is over the age of 17, they may self-register. You and your teen can complete forms in person or online here.
Do we need to make an appointment?
No appointment is needed but, if you prefer to schedule one ahead of time, please call 708-883-3300.
Can I bring my teen in if they are experiencing a crisis?
The Loft at Eight Corners is not a crisis center. If your teen is experiencing a crisis, please call 708-PILLARS (708-745-5277) or 988 to be connected with crisis services.
How can I encourage my teen to participate at The Loft at Eight Corners?
One of the best ways to encourage participation at The Loft is to connect with your teen around what they have stated they are experiencing or want to experience. If your teen has said that they are always stressed at school, you might say, “We both want for you to feel less stressed. What do you think about trying out the Stress Less Group at The Loft?” Or “Being stressed is no fun, I wonder if the Stress Less Group at The Loft can help. It might be worth trying.” Validate their emotions, discuss shared goals, and encourage.