The Advice Corner: How do I talk with my teen about suicide?

Posted 1 month ago

This month’s question: How do I talk with my teen about suicide? Nikole Slocum, MS, LPCC, JFCS Therapist: Talking with your teen about suicide might feel like one of the hardest conversations you’ll eve[...]

The Advice Corner: My adult child is struggling with mental health – what should I do?

Posted 2 months ago

This month’s question: Seeing your adult child struggle with mental illness can feel overwhelming and upsetting; you may be left wondering, what can I do to help? Angela Cowan, MSW, LICSW, Counseling Program[...]

The Advice Corner: 3-year-old tantrums – how can I set boundaries without losing my temper?

Posted 3 months ago

This months’ question: My 3-year-old throws tantrums every time we leave the park. How can I set boundaries without losing my temper? Natalie Quiring-Oleson, MSW, LICSW, JFCS Therapist (and proud parent o[...]

The Advice Corner: My teen says they’re fine, but I know they are not. How do I approach them?

Posted 4 months ago

This months’ question: If you’ve asked your teen how they are feeling and get a quick response of, “I’m fine,” it may feel like the topic is closed. You may be left wondering, is there a way to effec[...]

Resources to support parents and families in wake of the Annunciation shooting

Posted 5 months ago

By Angela Cowan, MSW, LICSW • Counseling Manager; and Leah Persky, PhD & CFLE • Parent Coach and Professional and Community Education Program Manager The horrific school shooting at Annunciation Cathol[...]

Social workers serve on the front lines of challenges our communities face

Posted 10 months ago

March is Social Work Month – this year’s theme is Social Work: Compassion + Action By Jill Kozberg • JFCS Mental Health and Senior Services Director Social workers have had a positive impact on so[...]

2 JFCS clinical staff participate in trip to Israel focusing on trauma response

Posted 10 months ago

Two JFCS staff members – one from Senior Services and one from Counseling – recently participated in a trip to Israel designed to create cultural connection, learning, and contribute to impactful mental hea[...]

The productivity trap

Posted 1 year ago

By Samantha Shepherd, MSW, LICSW • JFCS Therapist “There’s not enough time in the day…” “I’m so tired after work…” “I wish I had time for that…” So many folks have internalized messa[...]

Gut microbiome and mental health

Posted 1 year ago

By Samantha Shepherd, MSW, LICSW • JFCS Counselor “It’s not all in your head” Do you get that “gut” feeling when something is not right? Have you ever been told to “listen to your gut?” Turn[...]

Engaging in honest conversations about mental health and suicide helps reduce stigma

Posted 1 year ago

By Angela Cowan • JFCS Counseling Program Manager Throughout the month of September, you may notice #YouMatterMN and #StartTheConversation popping up on social media platforms. September is Suicide Preventio[...]