Chalk Talk Group Therapy

More about Chalk Talk Group Therapy

There is a tremendous need for culturally-specific mental health services for low-income youth: The youth we serve through Chalk Talk are drawn from housing developments, public schools and after school programs in Boston and nearby communities. They struggle with traumatic life experiences, mental illness and the daily knowledge that very little is expected of them by anyone. Overall, 1 in 5 youth under the age of 19 suffers from a mental illness that impairs how they function at home, at school and with peers, but it is estimated that only 20-34% receive treatment. Obstacles included stigma, transportation, language barriers and reluctance to engage in treatment. Through the power of sport, fusing it with clinical services, we are challenging the norm of traditional talk therapy, altering an approach. Through a ball, we are seeing that youth do not see this as therapy, rather an opportunity to be a part of a supportive culture with consistent and dedicated adults, helping them find their positive path in life and providing hope and possibility for their future.