Business Details
50 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Partner in Youth & Family Mental Health Support
Haven Youth & Family Services has dedicated over four decades to supporting youth and families through comprehensive mental health and community wellness initiatives. Established in 1976, our organization has evolved from a youth outreach program into a multifaceted service provider offering counseling, crisis intervention, youth employment programs, and community workshops. Our team of licensed clinicians and case managers brings extensive expertise in trauma-informed care, family dynamics, and youth development. We maintain strong partnerships with local schools, community groups, and funding agencies to address diverse mental health needs. Our evidence-based approaches combine mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and client-centered methodologies.As a leader in adolescent mental health, we provide 24-hour crisis support and operate youth drop-in centers. Our Illinois Youth Investment Program supports at-risk youth aged 16-24 with employment training and life skills development. Through our outreach initiatives, we deliver educational workshops on topics ranging from digital citizenship to stress management. We serve communities across Wilmette, Lake Bluff, Evanston, and Chicago. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures safe spaces for all individuals, including strong support for LGBTQ+ youth.
Services
Individual Counseling
Group Therapy
Family Counseling
Crisis Intervention
Youth Employment Programs
Mental Health Workshops
Drop-In Centers
Parenting Support
Substance Use Counseling
Trauma Recovery
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in youth mental health services
- Our licensed clinicians specialize in adolescent and family therapy
- We provide same-day crisis counseling appointments
- Our staff includes certified counselors and employment specialists
- We maintain partnerships with 50+ local community organizations
Services
Individual Counseling
Personalized therapy sessions help individuals address depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. Our licensed counselors use evidence-based approaches to provide emotional support and coping strategies. Clients develop self-awareness and resilience through weekly sessions tailored to their specific needs.
Crisis Intervention
We offer same-day crisis assessments for urgent mental health needs. Certified professionals provide immediate support for individuals experiencing acute distress. Services include stabilization, safety planning, and referral to higher care levels when needed.
Youth Employment Programs
The Illinois Youth Investment Program supports ages 16-24 with employment readiness training. Services include vocational counseling, resume building, and career mentoring. Participants gain work experience through community partnerships and placement programs.
Group Therapy
Structured group sessions create peer support networks for youth and adults. Participants develop social skills and coping mechanisms through guided activities. Topics address substance use, family conflict, and mental health awareness.
Family Counseling
Family therapy sessions improve communication and resolve conflicts. Clinicians help families navigate divorce, addiction, and transition challenges. Our approach emphasizes understanding, acceptance, and strengthening family bonds.
People
Charley Smith
Executive Director
Charley oversees strategic planning and operations with 15+ years in nonprofit leadership. His background combines mental health advocacy and organizational development. He connects community resources to enhance youth services.
Jimena Escurra
Clinical Director
Jimena leads our clinical team with expertise in trauma-informed care. She supervises counselors providing services to children and families. Her experience spans 10+ years in adolescent mental health treatment.
Jordan Colonna
Crisis Coordinator
Jordan specializes in emergency mental health support for youth. He develops crisis response protocols and trains staff in de-escalation techniques. His work focuses on early intervention strategies.
Chetana Rao
Counselor
Chetana provides therapeutic services for children and teens with mental health challenges. She integrates mindfulness and play therapy in her client-centered practice. Her approach emphasizes building emotional resilience.
Jill Zakon Leonard
Intake Coordinator
Jill connects clients with appropriate mental health services. She conducts initial assessments and coordinates treatment plans. Her practice incorporates mindfulness and strength-based interventions.
Questions
What mental health services do you offer for youth?
We provide individual, family, and group counseling for youth aged 11-24. Specialized services address anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use. Crisis counseling available M-F 9-5.
How can teens access drop-in programs?
Teens visit our Warming House in Wilmette (6th-12th grade) or Havens YO in Winnetka (8th-12th grade). Centers operate Mon-Fri after school with structured activities and staff support.
Do you offer employment programs for young adults?
Our Illinois Youth Investment Program provides job training, mentoring, and career services for ages 16-24. Services include resume building, interview preparation, and placement assistance.
Are mental health workshops available for schools?
We offer customized workshops on stress management, healthy relationships, and digital citizenship. Programs align with school curricula and address adolescent mental health concerns.
How can families access crisis support after hours?
Call 911 or visit the nearest ER for after-hours emergencies. Our staff provides crisis assessments during business hours. Additional resources include NAMI Helpline and Mental Health America hotlines.
