Strengthening Behavioral Health Supports for Youth and Families

Through a 2025 Community Impact Grant from United Way of Northern New York, 27 clinicians and counselors across Samaritan Medical Center’s hospital and clinic settings received specialized behavioral health training focused on supporting youth and families, including addressing issues such as bullying, social media influences, and adolescent engagement.

These clinicians serve individuals and families across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties, each carrying an average caseload of approximately 100 clients. As a result, the impact of this training extended well beyond the clinicians themselves, reaching thousands of North Country residents.

Based on reported caseloads and demographic data maintained by participating clinicians, the training supported:

• 2,700 households
• 278 children (infant to age 17)
• 1,178 adults (ages 18–64)
• 156 seniors (ages 65+)

In addition to exceeding the original goal of training 24 clinicians, this initiative addressed a critical gap in professional development. Trainings that qualify for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are often limited and may not focus on the real-life challenges clinicians encounter daily. This series provided timely, relevant content that participants immediately integrated into their work.

Clinicians completed evaluation forms documenting which trainings they attended, how they applied the skills learned, and the outcomes they observed. Across the board, participants reported that the trainings increased their knowledge, strengthened communication with teens and families, and improved engagement in therapeutic settings.

One clinician shared:

“I found all the trainings to be inspiring. I appreciate the broad range of topics covered, particularly because we serve a vast array of clients in community mental health. I am already seeing positive outcomes with my adolescent clients as they are receptive to the psychoeducation surrounding social media and reality television. It seems validating for them. As I integrate Motivational Interviewing techniques into my work, I am noticing increased motivation and engagement in the therapeutic process.”

This investment reflects United Way’s commitment to supporting local professionals, strengthening behavioral health services, and improving outcomes for children, teens, and families across the North Country, ensuring that the ripple effects of community giving extend far beyond the classroom and into everyday lives.