Child Guidance Center

02/25/2026

Sometimes families need more than weekly therapy to get through a crisis, and that's where our Community Action Team comes in. CAT provides intensive support through a full team of professionals who work with the entire family for six to nine months. The program includes medication management, mentoring, 24/7 crisis support, and more. See how it all comes together in this video + learn more at https://cgcjax.org/our-programs/community-action-team/

02/19/2026

"How was school?" "Fine."
Sound familiar? Sometimes kids need better questions to open up. Try these 5 conversation starters that actually get them talking about their day. Save this for your next carpool pickup or dinner table chat!

02/13/2026

🎶 Get ready to dance the night away for a meaningful cause! Join us on April 24 at San Jose Country Club for the 5th Annual Sandal, Sneaker, & Stiletto Gala. Every ticket purchased supports mental health programs that benefit thousands of children and families in Jacksonville.

Mark your calendars and get your tickets today: https://auctria.events/cgcgala

02/12/2026

When big feelings show up, sometimes it helps to give them a face. 👾 One of our Community Action Team therapists recently worked with siblings to create their own "anger monsters" and brainstorm ways to calm them down. Giving emotions a visual form helps kids understand what they're feeling, turning something scary into something they know they have the tools to manage.

02/06/2026

It's School Counseling Week, and we're honoring the therapists who meet students where they are. 💚 One of our Full Service Schools counselors recently facilitated a creative group activity where students explored the power of words. They created fall leaves representing harmful words that make them feel smaller, green leaves for words that help them grow, and yellow stars showing how they want to be a guiding light for others. They also made snowflakes as a reminder that, just like snowflakes, no two students are the same.

Thank you to the school counselors who create space for students to be seen, heard, and supported!

02/03/2026

On Safer Internet Day, let's focus on helping kids build healthy relationships with technology. The goal isn't to eliminate screens; it's to create balance and make sure screens don't crowd out the other things kids need, like sleep, movement, and face-to-face connection. If you're wondering how much is too much or how to set limits that actually work, our blog post has you covered. Check it out:

Learn to balance screen time and mental health with your child. Explore the benefits, risks, and actionable strategies for a healthier digital lifestyle.

01/27/2026

Sometimes it's hard to know if what you're going through is something you can manage on your own or if it's time to talk to someone. This infographic from NIMH provides a simple guide to help you decide. If you're wondering whether you or someone you love needs support, this is a great place to start.

01/21/2026

Deep breathing isn't just for yoga class. It's one of the most effective ways to help your child's nervous system calm down when they're upset, anxious, or overwhelmed. Watch this quick video and practice together. The more you do it when things are calm, the easier it'll be to use when emotions run high.

01/19/2026

Dr. King understood that access to healthcare is a fundamental right. He recognized that where you're born, how much money your family has, and the color of your skin shouldn't determine whether you get the care you need.

Today, we're still working toward that vision. Mental health disparities persist, especially for children and families of color who face systemic barriers to accessing care. On this MLK Day, let's recommit to making mental health care accessible and equitable for every family in Jacksonville.

01/16/2026

Is your child more tired, irritable, or withdrawn lately? Even here in Florida, seasonal changes can affect kids' moods and energy. Our latest blog breaks down what Seasonal Affective Disorder looks like in children and shares practical ways to support them through the winter months. Read more: https://cgcjax.org/seasonal-affective-disorder-in-kids/

01/14/2026

Looking for a meaningful way to give back in 2026? Learn how to recognize mental health challenges and support people in crisis through Talkable Communities. These FREE trainings are open to everyone—no experience required. 💙 Check out the full calendar and register today: https://www.talkablecommunities.org/trainings-calendar

01/08/2026

New year, new conversations! If one of your goals for 2026 is to build a stronger connection with your kids, start with their feelings. Kids don't always have the words for what they're feeling, so these 5 tips can help you start conversations without making it feel uncomfortable or forced.