Why Behavioral Health Services in Fort Collins Matter for Teens and Families
Adolescence has never been easy—but for many teens in Northern Colorado today, the challenges feel heavier than ever. From rising stress and anxiety to pressures at home and school, young people across Larimer and Weld Counties are experiencing significant behavioral-health struggles. For families, this can feel overwhelming and isolating.
That's why accessible, community-based behavioral health services in Fort Collins and the surrounding region are so vital. Organizations like Turning Point Center for Youth & Family Development—along with other local resources—play a critical role in supporting teens, stabilizing families, and strengthening community wellbeing.
The Rising Need: What Teens Are Facing in Larimer & Weld Counties
Recent county-level reports paint a concerning picture:
In Larimer County, about 42% of high-school students report feeling persistently sad or hopeless for two or more weeks—a key marker for depression.
Nearly half of all teens surveyed describe their stress levels as "unmanageable most days."
Weld County reports similar trends, with increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide risk among youth.
These emotional and behavioral health challenges don't stay contained. They affect academic performance, relationships, family communication, and a teen's ability to participate in daily life. Without intervention, issues like depression, trauma, and substance use can escalate quickly.
Yet many families still face barriers to getting help—especially in rural areas, among lower-income households, and among youth involved in child welfare or the juvenile justice system.
Why Local Behavioral Health Services Matter
Accessible behavioral health care is more than therapy sessions—it's a lifeline that:
1. Catches problems early
Early intervention can prevent mild-to-moderate struggles from turning into crises.
2. Supports the whole family
Behavior isn't isolated, and neither is healing. Family therapy, parenting support, and communication coaching help create a stable home environment.
3. Bridges the service gap
Northern Colorado—especially areas outside the Fort Collins city center—faces shortages in youth-specific providers. Local nonprofits help fill those gaps.
4. Builds community resilience
When families have support, so do schools, neighborhoods, and broader community systems.
How Turning Point Helps Teens and Families Thrive
Turning Point Center for Youth & Family Development is one of the region's most established and impactful youth-serving behavioral health organizations. Our programs are designed to be accessible, trauma-informed, and tailored to the unique needs of teens today.
Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP is a structured 12-week program for ages 13–17 providing group therapy, skill-building, and support for mental health or substance-use challenges—ideal for teens who need more than weekly therapy but don't require inpatient care.
Adolescent Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Youth in the PHP program receive 27 hours of structured treatment per week, including 5.5 hours per day of therapeutic programming (group, individual, and family therapy, along with case management and psychoeducation). The expected length of stay is approximately 3-6 weeks, with adjustments based on individual needs and treatment goals.
Individual & Family Therapy
In individual and family therapy, licensed clinicians work with teens and their caregivers to address depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, and behavioral concerns.
Behavior Coaching & Life-Skills Development
Through behavior coaching and life-skills development, coaches meet youth where they are—literally and emotionally—to build coping strategies, communication skills, and confidence.
Adolescent Support Groups
'Boys to Men' group and 'Becoming You Young Women's Group' offer weekly opportunities for group therapy on topics of self-identity, emotional well-being, healthy relationships, and more.
Affordable & Accessible Care
Turning Point accepts Medicaid, offers sliding-scale fees, and runs grant-funded programs that reduce or eliminate cost barriers for qualifying families.
Partnership with Schools & Community Systems
By coordinating with local agencies, schools, and county programs, Turning Point helps ensure families aren't navigating challenges alone.
A Community Effort, A Community Impact
Behavioral health services aren't just a safety net—they're foundational to building a healthier, more resilient community. When teens receive support, they become more engaged at school, more connected at home, and more hopeful about the future. When families get guidance, they grow stronger together.
Northern Colorado has made meaningful strides in expanding behavioral health infrastructure, but the need continues to grow. By investing in organizations like Turning Point—and by staying educated and connected—our community can continue to ensure every teen and family has access to the care they need.
Final Thoughts
For teens in Fort Collins, Larimer County, and Weld County, behavioral health support can make the difference between feeling stuck and finding a path forward. And for families, knowing they're not alone can bring relief, clarity, and hope.
