Payne County Youth Services

Payne County Youth Services’ array of programs address critical mental health and youth support needs with a multifaceted approach. They have developed a holistic system that combines professional counseling with practical interventions for at-risk youth.

From evidence-based therapy sessions to emergency shelters and transitional living programs, their offerings cover a wide spectrum of support. The Safe Place Network and Suicide Prevention Initiatives further demonstrate their commitment to protecting vulnerable young people.

Counseling Support: In Their Own Words

At the heart of our services lies thorough counseling support. PCYS offers extensive mental health and substance abuse counseling, utilizing evidence-based practices to guarantee the best outcomes for our clients.

Our skilled counselors provide individual and family sessions, addressing a wide range of issues with empathy and expertise.

Crisis intervention is a pivotal aspect of our counseling services, ensuring immediate help for those in urgent need. We’re committed to using the most effective, up-to-date approaches in our work, including CARS counseling, which has shown promising results.

Our dedicated counseling team creates a warm, welcoming environment where clients feel heard and supported. We acknowledge that seeking help can be challenging, and we’re here to guide you through every step of your journey towards better mental health and well-being.

Safe Place Network

Our Safe Place Network extends our reach beyond counseling rooms, offering immediate help to youth in crisis or at risk.

This nationwide program creates a safety net through partnerships with local businesses and volunteers, providing a network of locations where young people can seek refuge and support.

The Safe Place program guarantees that help is always within reach. Youth can access immediate assistance by:

1. Visiting any designated Safe Place site
2. Riding an OSU BOB Bus
3. Calling PCYS directly

These options provide multiple avenues for young people to connect with caring professionals who understand their needs. The Safe Place Network empowers youth to take control of their situation and seek help when they need it most.

It’s a community-wide effort that demonstrates our commitment to supporting and protecting vulnerable young people, ensuring they never feel alone or without options.

Emergency Youth Shelter

In times of crisis, our Emergency Youth Shelter stands as a safe and comforting refuge for young people who can’t remain in their homes. This indispensable service provides a protective environment for youth facing family crises, abuse, neglect, or other challenging circumstances. The shelter’s dedicated staff guarantees that each young person feels welcomed, supported, and understood during their stay.

At the Emergency Youth Shelter, they prioritize creating a nurturing atmosphere where youth can begin to heal and regain a sense of stability. A caring team works tirelessly to address immediate needs while also connecting youth with additional resources and support services.

PCYS believes that every child deserves a safe place to call home, even if it’s temporary. By offering this essential lifeline, they are helping vulnerable young people find hope and a path forward during difficult times.

Transitional Living Program

Building on a commitment to youth support, the Transitional Living Program offers a lifeline for homeless individuals aged 16-22.

This program at Payne County Youth Services provides safe, stable living accommodations and essential services to help young people transition to independence.

Participants receive all-encompassing support, including:

1. Job assistance and life skills training
2. Counseling and case management
3. Education assistance and incentives

The Transitional Living Program creates a supportive community where young adults can grow, learn, and thrive. It’s designed to empower participants, helping them overcome challenges and build a strong foundation for their future.

By offering a nurturing environment and practical resources, the program ensures that no young person has to face homelessness alone.

Suicide Prevention Initiatives at Payne County Youth Services

At the heart of PCYS’s suicide prevention efforts lies the program “Building a Competent Community for Suicide Prevention.” This evidence-based initiative targets both adults and youth in grades 6-12, providing essential education on the scope of suicide, research-backed prevention strategies, and actionable steps individuals can take to combat this pressing issue.

The program emphasizes that people contemplating suicide often don’t believe they can be helped. That’s why it’s vital for community members to offer active and persistent support.

By equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to recognize warning signs and intervene effectively, they are creating a network of informed, compassionate individuals ready to make a difference.

Conclusion

Payne County Youth Services’s comprehensive approach to mental health and youth support is making a significant impact. They provide essential counseling services while offering a safety net for young people in crisis.

With Safe Place Network, Emergency Youth Shelter, and Transitional Living Program, their programs ensure vulnerable youth have somewhere to turn. Suicide Prevention Initiatives are also saving lives and overall Payne County Youth Services offers an effective place to turn for youth and adolescent behavioral health in Oklahoma.