TRAVERSE CITY — United Way of Northwest Michigan is seeking volunteers for their Therapy Corps; a program set to launch in September that seeks to fill the mental healthcare gap for kids in the Grand Traverse Region.
“Over 40% of Michigan is currently in a region without adequate mental health access,” said United Way of Northwest Michigan regional community impact director Bailey Nuss.
It’s called Therapy Corps, and its goal is to bridge the gap for kids when it comes to mental health services.
Nuss said the quicker kids needs are treated the better off everyone will be.
“48 to 50% of mental illness starts before the age of 14, and early detection and treatment is linked to better outcomes.
But before Therapy Corps can launch this fall volunteers are needed. They’re looking for therapists, social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists. The program is like one that’s already being used in another state.
“Therapy Corps was born out of this program that’s already being run in Virginia. It is a statewide program that links families and children with volunteers who are certified mental health professionals.”
To be a volunteer you must be credentialed and willing to give one hour a week to a child 17 and under in need of mental health therapy.
In return you will receive a stipend for your service to go toward continuing education.
" A lot of therapists are already doing a lot of pro bono work, so we’re really hoping to capitalize on the same spirit and find more people who are willing to give of their time.
Katie Leask lives in Traverse City and is mom to two young boys.
She thinks United Way’s Therapy Corps initiative could offer some much-needed relief to parents who often head downstate for budget friendly mental healthcare.
“There are not enough resources for parents and young children to get the help they need. And mental health is just as important as physical health.”
If you are a credentialed therapist interested in volunteering, click here