Engage Young Adult Transitions

02/12/2026

Self-harm is a serious concern for many teens and young adults, often used to cope with overwhelming emotions.

Punitive approaches often backfire. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers an evidence-based path forward, teaching skills like distress tolerance to manage intense feelings without self-injury.

We explore what self-harm is, why it happens, and how DBT techniques like the TIPP skill set can help.



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Self harm and self injury can signal distress. Learn common signs, triggers, and supportive ways to seek help and heal.

02/10/2026

We’re protecting kids from scraped knees, but not from screens.

Parents are often overprotective in the real world and underprotective online. The result? Less independence, more risk. Kids need freedom to fail offline and boundaries online, especially during key developmental years.



🎧 Watch → https://engagelifenow.com/media-appearances

02/06/2026

Between 17–27, questions like “Who am I?” are a normal part of growing up.

Gender identity is your internal sense of self; sexual orientation is who you’re attracted to. Understanding the difference can ease confusion, build empathy, and support healthier relationships. You don’t have to rush a label—practice curiosity and self-compassion. Your story is yours to write.



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https://engagelifenow.com/insights/gender-identity-sexual-orientation-and-identity/

02/05/2026

The statistics are an urgent call to action: LGBTQ+ youth face significantly higher su***de risk, driven by rejection & victimization.

But hope is an action. Supportive adults, affirming spaces, and access to care are proven, life-saving protections. Every young person deserves to thrive.

***dePrevention

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Rate of su***de among lgbt youth: learn key risk factors, protective supports, and how families and schools can help.

02/03/2026

You can be scared and still take the leap. Anxiety doesn’t mean stop, it means support.

When kids face fear, they don’t need it fixed. They need to be understood and encouraged. Validate the fear, then remind them they’re capable of doing hard things.



🎧 Watch → https://engagelifenow.com/media-appearances

01/29/2026

At Engage, our monthly cookout isn’t just about food—it’s about community.

Every month, young adults, staff, and local alumni come together to hang out, catch up, and take a break from the usual routine. No agenda. Just good food and real conversation. It’s a chance to stay connected, meet new people, and be part of something that doesn’t feel like a “program.”

01/29/2026

Between ages 17-27, questioning who you are is core to the journey.

Understanding the difference between gender identity (your internal sense of self) and sexual orientation (who you’re attracted to) is a powerful tool for self-discovery.

This knowledge builds empathy, guiding you to build authentic relationships and advocate for yourself and others. Your story is yours to write.



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Sexual orientation vs gender identity: learn what each means, how they differ, and why understanding both supports teens and families.

01/27/2026

Many young adults feel stuck juggling school, work, mental health, and questions like “Who am I?” Challenges like depression, anxiety, and executive function issues don’t mean they’re failing. With structure, coaching, and support, they can move forward.



🎧 Watch → https://engagelifenow.com/media-appearances

01/22/2026

Problematic po*******hy use (PPU) is a real process addiction that impacts relationships, mental health, and daily life.

Symptoms include secrecy, loss of control, shame, and neglecting responsibilities. Recovery is possible with specialized therapy, community support, and holistic healing. At Engage, our addiction counselors help young adults build a foundation for lasting freedom and emotional wellness.

**nAddictionRecovery

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P**n Addiction Symptoms can include cravings, secrecy, and loss of control. Learn common signs and when to seek support.

01/20/2026

Today’s 18- to 30-year-olds are in “emerging adulthood”, caught between teen life and full independence. Delayed identity, anxiety, and huge cultural shifts can leave them feeling stuck, not broken. With support, they can still build confidence and move forward.



🎧 Watch → https://engagelifenow.com/media-appearances

01/13/2026

Anxiety isn’t a sign something is “wrong” with your child; it’s part of how their brain grows. When we shield kids from hard feelings or hand them a screen for comfort, we block resilience. Let’s help them face challenges and build real confidence.



🎧 Watch → https://engagelifenow.com/media-appearances

01/12/2026

Our therapists can also double a pizza delivery person!!

Last week, our therapist Patrick showed up with pizza in hand, not for a session, but to celebrate one of our young adults completing high school while in the Engage program. It was a big moment, and the celebration was simple but meaningful: support, community, and recognition of the hard work it takes to reach a milestone like this.

This is what clinical engagement looks like at Engage. Our therapists aren’t just behind closed doors — they’re present, involved, and invested in the day-to-day lives of the young adults we serve. Whether it's navigating hard conversations or sharing a slice of pizza in celebration, our team shows up in ways that build real trust and lasting impact.