Therapeutic 
Mentoring Program

The Therapeutic Mentoring Program provides a structured one-on-one relationship that focuses on the needs of the youth.  Mentors encourage individuals to develop to their fullest potential by addressing therapeutic goals. 

Mentors help guide the youth through a wide range of tasks such as emotional well-being, social skills, self-esteem and other areas the youth may be struggling with. 

By role modeling and providing a trusting relationship, the mentor helps the youth to overcome obstacles, set limits and reach goals. 

Services Provided

• Adult role modeling
• Building self-esteem
• Improve social interactions
• Building on the strengths of the Youth
• Improve positive communications skills
• Facilitate growth by helping to meet therapeutic goals
• Improve emotional well-being
• Encourage and Facilitate appropriate problem solving/decision making skills
• Develop a trusting relationship with an adult
• Providing fun and exposure to new experiences

Obtaining a Mentor
The mentoring process begins with a referral made by a therapist, school counselor, case worker or at the request of a parent.  A brief intake questionnaire is completed. 

If it is determined that the youth would benefit from the mentoring program, the coordinator matches the youth with a mentor that would have the ability to meet the youth’s individual needs. 

Who is Eligible?
The program is available to McHenry County youth ages 4 – 17 who are experiencing emotional difficulties and/or demonstrate a range of acting out behaviors and who would benefit from the individual attention of a mentor as part of their therapy treatment team.