STEP Program for Girls is the First Gender-Specific Program for Girls at Risk to Open in Colorado
Summary
STEP is based on evidence showing that gender specific programs which target the emotional and developmental needs of teenage girls are successful in reducing and preventing a variety of risk factors such as truancy, mental health concerns, substance abuse, involvement in the juvenile justice system and victimization.Who should refer to STEP: Therapists, school counselors, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Pediatricians, Juvenile Probations Officers, Emergency Rooms, hospital psychiatric units, residential programs as well as individual referrals are appropriate.The program goal is to fulfill an urgent and dire need of services directed specifically to teenage girls and their families.STEP is based on evidence showing that gender specific programs which target the emotional and developmental needs of teenage girls are successful in reducing and preventing a variety of risk factors such as truancy, mental health concerns, substance abuse, involvement in the juvenile justice system and victimization.During the 12 sessions of STEP Program, gender specific issues are explored with an emphasis on coping skills, stress and symptom management, co-occurring disorders, treatment goal achievement and treatment compliance within the context of being a girl.Who can benefit from participating in the STEP program?The program can also help prevent hospitalization or be a step-down after a hospital stay.Who should refer to STEP: Therapists, school counselors, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Pediatricians, Juvenile Probations Officers, Emergency Rooms, hospital psychiatric units, residential programs as well as individual referrals are appropriate.STEP Program for Girls is the first IOP in Colorado to offer a gender-specific, evidence based treatment approach addressing the mental health needs of teenage girls in our community.