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“Empower House is the next step in our administration’s commitment to supporting mental health care that specifically addresses unique challenges in different communities,” County Executive Jim Tedesco said during a brief ceremony Wednesday at the Essex Street facility.
“The young women who will join our team of leaders, instructors, and mental health professionals at Empower House will find a program dedicated to serving them not just as patients but as people," he added. "In addition to required weekly attendance at one therapy session and one evening session, these girls and young adults will have access to classes and workshops that will inspire personal development and growth."
Tedesco was joined by Bergen County Freeholders Tom Sullivan and Maura DiNicola, Bergen County Director of Human Services Jane Linter, Bergen County Director of Family Guidance Dr. Nicholas Montello, and mental health advocates from Israeli programs that inspired the development of Empower House.
The entirely voluntary Empower House program provides clinical services and activities in a home-like atmosphere.
The only commitments for clients are for them to attend one evening and one therapy session a week.
Hours are from noon to 8 p.m. weekly.
Each evening features activities, a house meeting and a family style meal.
Clients may come to the program earlier in the day if their schedule permits and may attend more than one evening a week.
Staff includes a “house parent,” mental health professionals, and a variety of consultants who provide prosocial activities such as art, culinary workshops, exercise groups, and other activities designed to foster empowerment and skill building.
"The program uses a positive youth development model and incorporates trauma informed care," while its design "fosters cohesiveness among clients and staff and provides support and services to assist young women as they transition to adulthood," according to its literature.
CONTACT: (201) 336-6900 or (201) 336-6915
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