Al Desetta

Help teens open up in group and individual counseling sessions. These 49 first-hand perspectives show teens how their peers have managed mental health challenges and benefited from mental health supports. The questions that accompany each story help teens identify their strengths and supports. Topics include: Cutting, depression, bereavement, substance abuse, and more. Also includes 10 teen-friendly interviews with mental health professionals. Selected Reading Questionnaire.

The special challenges of coming out while in care are explored through stories by gay and straight teens and staff. Activities for every story make this book ideal for staff training or independent living classes. Selected Reading Questionnaire.

Teens write about how foster parents, group home staff, caseworkers, social workers, and teachers help them thrive. Their stories show how communication can be improved on both sides, and provide insight into what kinds of approaches and styles work best. Selected Reading Questionnaire.

In these stories, teens write about the pros and cons of group homes, and how living in congregate care has changed their lives. They don't sugarcoat the difficulties of group home life, and also show how group care can help teens grow and mature, serving as a successful alternative to foster homes or traditional families. Selected Reading Questionnaire.